Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’ve spent a lot of time writing and publishing Internet articles. I have written a couple of books over the past few years, Guide to Hot-Water-Bath Canning: 2nd Edition being the most recent. I’m currently working on producing a Crochet tutorial book, consisting of several original square motifs, and a few original patterns using some of them.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Guide to Hot-Water-Bath Canning: 2nd Edition is my most recent book. It was primarily inspired by my late mom. We grew up watching her can and serve just about everything you could think of, and I ended up enjoying the thrill of canning and serving home canned goods too.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
This truly depends on who you ask. Some say I’m a bit overly focused, while others say I’m sporadic when I get a new idea or need to work on something. Overall, I think focus when writing is a good thing, and getting your idea down before you forget is necessary to create the desired article or book.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
There are too many to count. I will say Jack London, Taylor Caldwell and John Muir are high up on my list, but so are some present day authors like John Heldt and Mike Evans.
What are you working on now?
I’m currently working on a crochet pattern book of square motifs, another of my mom’s many talents that I picked up and decided to share with the world.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Purely a grassroots effort. I’m spending a whole lot of time researching sites where I can submit my books for promotion. I’m also tweeting more and engaging with my audience.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
If you want to write and publish, then you must do exactly that. The words won’t land on the page by themselves, and the publication of an article or book won’t happen by accident. You have to do the work, but it’s worth it.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
At this particular moment, “Take a deep breath and keep moving forward.”
What are you reading now?
Hannah’s Moon by John Heldt
What’s next for you as a writer?
I’ve got some big ideas for a crochet doily pattern book. Once I finish publishing my crochet square motif patterns book, I will be designing some new doilies no one has ever seen before.
What is your favorite book of all time?
The Bible, The Imitation of Christ – These both keep me grounded and focused on what’s truly important in life.
I’ve always loved Jonathan Livingston Seagull. I read the book and saw the movie as a kid. I have the vinyl record, and every once in a while I will pull it out and listen to this story from my youth.
Author Websites and Profiles
M. J. Joachim Website
M. J. Joachim Amazon Profile
M. J. Joachim’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Twitter Account