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Marin Darmonkow

Member Since: 06/2022

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Marin studied nuclear physics, art, and literature. He owned an advertising agency for many years.
Oh, a few more things: he does not drive, he does not drink carbonated beverages, he had never consumed food from fast-food restaurants, he does not have a mobile phone, he had never used legal or illegal drugs, and he had never visited his GP (much to the disapproval of his wife). He started his small publishing house FONTREAL (children’s picture books) in 2016. Marin lives with his wife and two children on the beach of the Atlantic Ocean - in St. John’s, NL, Canada.

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

I studied nuclear physics, art, and literature. I owned an advertising agency for many years. A few more things: I do not drive, I do not drink carbonated beverages, I have never consumed food from fast-food restaurants, I do not have a mobile phone, I have never used legal or illegal drugs, and I have never visited my GP (much to the disapproval of my wife).

When and why did you start writing books?

I created my first book in 2016 - THE ADVENTURE OF ALEX AND ER (not Alexander, Alex and Er). I explored an idea based on my son's name. Alex became a mighty knight, Er became his unicorn mare, and together they had an adventure - they found a snowman's broom that was stolen by a witch. And I was hooked.

What made you decide to tackle writing as a career?

I truly enjoy the creative process of writing/illustrating/designing/publishing children's picture books. I always try to happily marry the book "ingredients" - text/visuals/design - this way I can create a unique and appealing piece of art.

Which one of your books or characters is your favourite?

They are all my children and I love them all. My son's favourite is THE TALE OF WAS AND DAS - a hilarious story about an orphan gypsy boy and his dog. And how they decide to use materials from a dumpster to build Thesaurus, the biggest dinosaur in the world.

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

None. When you face a blank page, there is an unlimited number of paths your mind can offer you to explore. I take one of them...

Who is your favourite author and book?

I do not have a favourite writer or book.

What book are you reading right now?

I reread Dickens often.

Where do you get your inspiration for your books?

I always root for the underdog - the appeal is irresistible. I like when the underdog wins - his success requires more intelligence, more hard work, and a bigger desire to be achieved.

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

Walk alone. Read. Watch tennis.

Do you have any new books in the works?

A dozen - for now. The closest to the finishing line is ART. Art is autistic and artistic. Art doesn't speak but makes art that dismisses even gravity. To perfectly fit the title I tried to create out-of-this-world illustrations. The publication will be launched this summer.