Featured Author: Philip Johnsey

[Tawdra Kandle]

1. Tell us about your latest book.

From my experiences, our pet’s antics often lead us to good things. We’ve all heard the dramatic stories about the pets waking the owners up and saving them from a burning house, or helping someone recover from an illness.

Climb that Fence & Take that Leap is a series of stories from my pets and the interesting life insights I learned from watching them. The short stories are written in a conversational, easy to read format so it can be enjoyed by most anyone. As a fun side note, the other day I opened the book to the story about the sea turtles and their determination. It was a great reminder for me to keep moving ahead.

2. Where did the idea for the book come from?

I’ve always been involved with animals and one of my first published stories involved an animal event.  As I continued to write, I noticed a lot of my stories related to the animals. I really wanted to share these stories, but in a manner that would make a difference for both people and the animals. The idea for the book came from there.

3. Who and what inspire you to write?

Whenever I read a riveting, descriptive story that just pulls you in and keeps you, I think “wow, I’d like to get to that level” so I keep writing. What inspires me the most are the positive comments from people who follow my writings. It’s nice to know that people enjoy your work.

4. Each author has his or her own inspiring journey. How did you begin writing?

I attended this event called Frog Watch which really didn’t sound like a great way to spend a Saturday night. I could think of other things I’d rather be doing, but I went and it was actually quite fun. My girlfriend, at the time, said I should write about it and post the story on the local newspaper’s online community events. I was a volunteer at the state park that hosted the event so it could be great publicity.

I have written essays for college, technical documents at work, but never really composed a story. I had no idea where to start so the first sentence was exactly what I said to her: “You want me to do what? Go watch frogs at night? I wrote the rest of the story just like that; as a conversation, from my first hand perspective. I didn’t think it was anything that great, certainly not anything close to the literary genius that I had studied in college or writing classes.

The local paper printed the article and the next couple of events were filled to capacity. When the park ranger showed me the paper and thanked me for the story, I was blown away.

5. What has been the most pleasant surprise about writing? How about an unexpected down side?

The most pleasant surprise is the people connections that occur as I talk with people about my latest blog post, article, or this book. We have a lot in common and writing has a way of bringing that out. 

An unexpected downside is that while its fun, it can consume a lot of time. I have a hard time writing a story when it’s a beautiful day outside. I do write outside when I can though. 

6. Do you have any writing rituals?

I usually like to take a walk outside because it helps clear the mind and the exercise is good. I’ve gotten some great story ideas on my walks so I carry my phone and record them as they come to mind.  

7. Do you write your books in order?

This is my first one so I’d have to say yes!

8. What is on your writing playlist for this book?

I don’t have anything else for this book, but I have a few other books I’m composing that are unrelated.

9. Any favorite writing snacks?

Anything chocolate, popcorn, and veggie chips.

10. What advice would you give writers who aspire to be published?

When I started writing, I didn’t think my writing was good enough so I tried to write like everyone else I had studied. What made the biggest difference was what I call “finding my voice”.  Once I returned to my natural style, things just flowed so much easier. My writings were more heartfelt and easier to compose. You have to write your natural style; write what comes easy to you and be yourself. The world needs to hear your voice.

And one more thing….as you read tons of information on how hard it is to be published or recognized it can be very, very deflating. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. I was fortunate to have a friend who published her book a year before mine. She was excited, shared a wealth of info and was a great motivation. 

We’ve all learned as we went along so keep writing and join the party!! If you want to contact me for more information, I’ll be happy to share what I know. You can email me at: [e-mail]

11. Are you working on anything new right now?

I have several book folders on my laptop waiting for attention, but the one I’m spending the most time on is one about hiking the Grand Canyon from rim to rim. For me it was way more than just a physical hike, it was a life changing experience and I’d love to do it again.

12. Who is your favorite character in your current book?

Keiko is my favorite character because she brought out so much emotion in me. I had actually finished the book, but felt it was missing something deeper. Her story was the final piece.

13. What is your favorite book of all time?

Just one???  Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill because it’s not just about being monetarily rich. It’s about living a rich life, which includes doing what you love, solid relationships, and giving back. I have the edition that has motivational quotes in the margins and enjoy just flipping it open and seeing what I find.

14. Tell us in one sentence why we should read your book.

The animal stories are short, easy to read, but convey timeless messages we all can use as reminders to help us reach our goals. 

Stalk Philip:
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