Today I have the pleasure in welcoming Trestle Press newcomer Ryan Jenkins to the blog. Here he tells us a little bit about his life as a writer.
How did I get into writing? Well, that’s a tough one. I was always pretty good at it growing up. Any time I had assignments due, I always waited till the last day to finish them. I can see today, of course, that wasn’t the best way to do them, but when I got a topic to write about I enjoyed, I could spend hours on research, and generally write way too much. Mostly, what got me into writing stories, was reading. I’ve always enjoyed reading very much. I guess I wanted to try and tell stories that I wanted to hear.
I write fiction, of course. But it’s usually very broad. My first story published was a rather emotional piece, but it included vampires. I have written some horror, and sci-fi stuff. Basically I write stuff that I love to read.
What inspires me to write? I wouldn’t say I want to be an entertainer, but, I like to entertain. And because I cant draw, I try to paint a good picture with words.
I have a bit of time to read, usually after I get my boys off to bed, and I am done putting down a few words. I currently have a few books I am reading: a book by Harry Turtledove and a book of short stories by Richard Matheson. I also just bought another book in the Autumn series. I absolutely love space epics, or space operas; Peter F. Hamilton has written my favorites out of those. But, if I had to choose one book as my favourite, I would have to say ‘The Road’ by Cormac McCarthy. It really hit home for me, being a father taking care of two boys by myself. ‘The Road’ inspired me greatly. Not just because of the actual story, but of the simple nature of the writing and being able to get the point across with minimal complications.
I’m currently working on two stories. They are actually the longest I’ve ever written, as I generally only write shorts under 4000 words. My first published short story – ‘I Stand Alone’ - left readers wanting more so I picked that one up kinda where it left off. I am also writing a bleak future piece. I’d love to give more details, the most I can give is that it has plenty of action involved too! I hope in the future one day to produce a full length novel. I’m still adjusting to writing as much as I can, while maintaining a full time job, and raising two boys, I hope to become more efficient in finding the time.
The publisher that has given me the opportunity is Trestle Press, can be found through Amazon. I also have a Facebook page.
I don’t know what to tell people about writing, other than just do it! If you want to write something, just write it, and let people read it. I know a lot of people that write, but don’t let others read. Writing is all about reading, I think!
I like writing mostly because I get to tell a story and live it too. I try to do my best to paint the same picture in the readers mind that I had while writing. The only thing I don’t like about it is I cant write the words fast enough!
I am not really sure what my strengths and weaknesses are. The only thing I worry about is the nature of how I write. I don’t write with an outline or anything like that, I generally don’t know how my stories will end, or even what will be on the next few pages. I just have an idea, write it, then the story comes to me.
I feel that ebooks are a great medium for new writers so they can get their work out there, and show publishers that people are willing to read it. Plus the reviews are good too. I like to see what kind of feedback people are giving, then when I am working on a novel or something longer, I will know if I am headed in the right direction!
Thanks to Ryan for spending some time working on this post and good luck for the future, Ryan!
Vic x
