AJ Sullivan

Tell us a little bit about yourself, your hobbies and interests.

I am originally from Buffalo, NY. First my father's job, then my job, moved us around the country. I have been to 47 States. I intend to get to the other three. I am a colored pencil artist. I love to sing. I love to write.

When and why did you start writing books?

The first book I completed was Bob E. Bear Goes Fishing in 1986. Writing allows me to express myself in a deep and meaningful way. It was my emotional outlet as a child. Poetry, songs, educational pieces, and novels have brought me peace.

What made you decide to tackle writing as a career?

My degree is in Marketing. There was a lot of writing involved. Most involved promotional material and white papers on lighting. It took me years to overcome the fear of having my fiction published. I'm getting closer to retirement, and don't want to miss the opportunity for my work to be available to others.

Which one of your books or characters is your favourite?

Because I have fiction for children and for adults, I have two favorites. In my children's books, Bob E. is my favorite. He will always be the bedtime story for my boys. In adult fiction, oddly enough, my favorite character is a child named Marceline. She is bold, honest, and courageous. All the things I wished I could have been as a child.

Which one of your books was the hardest to write and stretched you the most as a writer?

The book about Marceline. It is a complicated story with twists and turns. The children's books are written with my sons and grandsons in mind. It is me telling them stories. Adult fiction carries bits and pieces of my story. It is harder for me.

Who is your favourite author and book?

I love James Michener. His historical fiction is all I read as a teen and young adult. Chesapeake is my favorite as I lived in that area and am familiar with the places he writes about.

What book are you reading right now?

I am in the midst of four books. The Body is Not an Apology by Sonia Renee Taylor, The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel Van Der Kolk, M.D., Space by Michener, and Freedom is a Constant Struggle by Angela Davis.

Where do you get your inspiration for your books?

My inspiration comes from life. I've lived in many places, had many jobs, and met many people. Most of my characters are combinations of those I've met. News stories end up blended in with my experiences. I've even asked people I've met if I may use their names for characters. Most say yes.

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

I don't really have spare time. I work the school year in a high school full time. In summer I'm now an author full time. I do draw and sing. I sometimes volunteer.

Do you have any new books in the works?

I do. 'Bob E. and the Bully Bears' is next in that series. A new series will be Sunny with Freckles. I'm really wanting to get some of the adult fiction released as well.