Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m twenty-three years old and have a lot of interests. How Computers Work and What to Do When They Don’t is my first book. I’ve written several others books that’ll likely never be published, but I did self-publish one book in high school that had a very niche cult following!
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
I started working on “How Computers Work and What to Do When They Don’t” almost a year ago, but it’s been the fruition of many years spent helping family and friends with their computer and technical problems. I even held the real job title of Client Support Guru for almost four years! Over time, I learned that you could apply the “give a man a fish and you feed him for a lifetime” philosophy to computers and so I stopped simply solving people’s computer problems and started teaching them my methods to the madness. I hope that it helps people everywhere adopt a good mindset with which to approach technical problems, even if they don’t have a technical background or any technical knowledge at all.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Not really. I don’t drink coffee, which is probably unusual for a writer.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Too many to count! In non-fiction, it’s hard to nail down any specific examples, but I like books that are straight and too the point, and packed with generous amounts of information instead of a lot of filler. That’s what I’ve tried to do with “How Computers Work”. I’ve yet to publish any fiction, but C.S. Lewis’s “The Chronicles of Narnia” series really influenced me as a kid. More recently, I’ve been enjoying Craig Johnson’s “Longmire” series.
What are you working on now?
I’m working on (at least) two books: a follow-up to “How Computers Work” that focuses primarily on the Internet and cybersecurity, and a sci-western that I’m still fleshing out. Stay tuned!
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’m still figuring that one out!
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Just start. For non-fiction, I like to have an outline so I know what I’m writing before I write. For fiction, I’ve found that being a “plantser” works pretty well; I like to have a skeleton of the story in place and then flesh it out as I go, and this also allows for unexpected plot twists and unplanned scenes. Find what works for you, but just start.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
That’s tough, because I make it a point to read as much good advice as I can. In regards to writing, Steve Jobs once said, “Real artists ship.” I believe that’s critical for us writers: We can write and rewrite until the cows come home, but we must put our art out there at some point. We must ship.
What are you reading now?
I’m currently working my way through “Long Way Round” by Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman, while balancing some Plato and Marcus Aurelius for good measure. I’m also making my way through “The Lord of the Rings” this year.
What’s next for you as a writer?
For non-fiction, I’m going to work on a follow-up or two to “How Computers Work”. For fiction, I’m working on a sci-western that’s been on my mind for quite a while. Other ideas are gestating, so I’m hopping among them and fleshing them out as the inspiration strikes me!
What is your favorite book of all time?
The Bible. I try not to go a day without reading it.
Author Websites and Profiles
Matthew R. Baker Website
Matthew R. Baker Amazon Profile
Matthew R. Baker’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account