Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I was born and raised in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, but left home in 1961 to attend St. Mark Seminary in Erie, Pennsylvania, until graduating in 1965.
In 1966, I enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps and am a Vietnam veteran. Upon being released from active duty, I began a thirty-three-year management career with the H.J. Heinz Company, from which I retired, as the manager of the company’s Pittsburgh facility, in 2001.
My late wife and I were married in 1970. We had five children and a wonderful life together for thirty-five and a half years. Today, I am the proud father of four adult children and have four grandchildren.
My one and only novel was released by the publisher August 9, 2011.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
“Levels” is a post-apocalyptic novel, depicting the end-result of a social experiment, conducted by a group of dedicated men and women, to eliminate all of the institutions, philosophies, and bad behavior in general, which they believed contributed to the downfall of previous societies.
Within three centuries: war, crime poverty, hunger, prejudice, inequality, greed, and vanity have been eradicated. However, they are not the only things that have disappeared. The institution of marriage, the family unit concept, long-term intimate relationships, and religion no longer exist.
The reader accompanies Jonathan and his companions, who have just completed their formal primary education and indoctrination, as they set out to prove worthy of advancement within the various levels of their social structure, so that they may discover more about their world and those who control it.
I have often thought about what it would take to create a social structure in which everyone, without exception, would have access to the exact same quantity and quality of food, clothing, housing, formal education, medical care, and social advancement opportunities. “Levels” is my attempt to create such a world. Readers must determine if I have succeeded or failed.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I’m not sure that the adjective “unusual” would apply; however, I do not work from an outline, but prefer rough reference notes, pertaining to each chapter’s intended purpose and each character’s personality, quirks, strengths, weaknesses, and prejudices.
Other than that, it is just a matter of writing, re-writing, polishing, and re-writing again until I feel satisfied that I can do no better.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Authors and books that have had the greatest influence upon me are: “Aztec” by Gary Jennings, “The Stand” and “Dark Tower” series by Stephen King, the “Earth’s Children Series” by Jean M. Auel, the “Hunger Games ” trilogy by Suzanne Collins, “The Hobbit” and “Lord of the Rings” series by J.R.R. Tolkein, and last, but not least, the “Harry Potter” series by J.K. Rawling.
What are you working on now?
Writing a novel was actually just one of several goals, included in a bucket list, that my late wife insisted that I create when I retired. I am presently in the process of completing the last of those goals – visiting all fifty states by car (43 down – 7 to go). Between that, staying in touch with my children and grandchildren, and a fairly active social life, I may never find time to write another book.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
A marketing representative and publicist, assigned by the publisher, along with a website, created and maintained by the publisher’s IT group have been very effectively and professionally promoting my novel for the past three years .
I demonstrate my appreciation for the time and energy, which they expend on my behalf, by following up on any and all leads, resulting from their efforts; prepared to deliver a polished and well-rehearsed presentation.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
I would encourage aspiring authors to be willing to learn and master technical language and writing skills, before attempting to write a book. There are books, guidelines, and low-cost or free writing courses available at the local public library or on the internet that focus upon spelling, vocabulary, punctuation, and syntax.
Once the basics are learned, it is just a matter of producing a work worthy of publication and not allow the occasional rejection letter to discourage you.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
“The past may dicatate who we are, but we get to determine what we become.”*
*Stephen Spielberg (Film Director/Screenwriter/Producer)
What are you reading now?
I have just begun to read “A Storm of Swords”; the third book of George R.R. Martin’s seven-book “A Song of Ice and Fire” series.
What’s next for you as a writer?
If “Levels” were to become a commercial success, I would consider writing a sequel; time and circumstances permitting.
What is your favorite book of all time?
“Aztec”, an epic 1,038-page novel about the fall of the Aztec Empire, by Gary Jennings. First published in 1980.
Author Websites and Profiles
Jim Vuksic Website