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 John A. Wooden was born and
raised in Memphis, Tennessee. He is a retired Major from the U.S. Air Force
and a feature writer and columnist for The Perspective magazine in
Albuquerque, New Mexico. His first novel, A Collection of Thoughts,
was an expression of his thoughts on life. His most recent novel, A
Moment of Justice, A Lifetime of Vengeance, is a murder/suspense
thriller that spans thirty years and brings his unique writing style to the
forefront of the literary industry. He is also the proud father of a high
school graduate, Jonathan, and a thirteen-year-old daughter, Jene.
Who is John A. Wooden?
As an author, I am a
person who wants to get his story out for the world to read. I consider
myself a storyteller… someone who can tell an interesting story on paper.
As a father, I am Jonathan’s dad or Jene’s dad (smiling), and that thrills
me. Besides that, I am a man who loves life and is thankful I have been
blessed with such a wonderful life and a beautiful gift, the gift of
writing.
Tell us about your writing style?
Someone described my
writing style as unique. Probably based on my short, succinct chapters,
which is not at all unique. Several authors write in this style, most
notably James Patterson. But my style is short, succinct, crisp chapters
that move and tell a story. I love grabbing the reader’s attention within
the first several pages and then working my stuff from there. I like
to keep my readers’ attention. I want them to feel and care about my
characters. The true essence of a good book is keeping someone’s attention
and making sure they want to turn to the next page.
How has reading shaped your existence
today?
Reading has had a
tremendous effect on my life. The first good book I ever read turned out to
be the best book I ever read, Richard Wright’s Native Son.
Discounting the Bible, it’s the first book I couldn’t put down. Actually,
after I read Native Son, it enabled me to read the Bible without
stopping. I was a senior in high school when I read Native Son and I
haven’t stopped reading since. Through reading, I have learned a great deal
about the world we live in, the world itself and many wonderful and not so
wonderful things. I can truly say, if I never picked up a book, I would not
be where I am today!
Who are your favorite authors?
Walter Mosley and James Patterson. Both are great in
their own ways and both write page turners for me. I would love to be
mentioned in their company one day!
What advice can you give to up-and-coming
writers?
Accept both criticism
and constructive criticism, especially from those who are trying to help
you succeed. Write from your heart and for the love of writing a great tale
or story and not for the money. If you write from the heart and it’s your
best, the money may come one day. I truly believe avid readers can see the
love of writing in an author’s work. Lastly, persistent is a must.
Rejection letters are a part of the business and the average author who
puts him or herself out there trying to make it the business will
inevitably receive the dreaded rejection letter or letters from publicists,
agents or publishers. However, you must have the courage and willpower to
continue on.
What motivates you?
Being creative and writing something everyone loves. I like
the thrill of creating a story that everyone talks about. Additionally,
it’s nice receiving e-mails or a call from someone who is reading my book
and they are trying their best to figure out who the killer is. That’s my
motivation, writing a story that everyone gets into.
What does the future hold for John A.
Wooden?
More novels. My main
character in my latest book, A Moment of Justice, A Lifetime of Vengeance,
is FBI Special Agent Kenny “KC” Carson. I am doing a series of books with
KC and his supporting cast. I am also doing another series with a female
CIA agent, Sasha McCoy. Additionally, my first book was a combination of
fiction and non-fiction, and I would like to do another book or two with
that format. So hopefully you will see a lot more books from me.
9. What legacy do you
plan to leave for your children?
To live a good and
righteous life and always treat people the way you want to be treated. I
want them to be successful in whatever endeavors they choose. I have always
tried to teach my kids to know and be themselves.
What title will you give your
autobiography? And why?
JOHN WOODEN, LIVING AND
LOVING LIFE. As a member of the military, I have been in snowstorms,
blizzards, hurricanes, a volcano and conflicts. I learned to value life.
Like everyone else, I still go through the trials and tribulations of life,
but I try to keep a positive attitude, because I know my life could have
been shorten years ago.
To purchase a copy
of A Moment of Justice, A Lifetime of Vengeance, visit John's web site at www.jwooden.com. To arrange speaking engagements,
interviews or book signings, contact publicist, Sherita Redic, at (901)
859-7731.
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