A Conversation With Author J. Albert Smith
Author of Landscaper Shares Inspiration and Insight
Jun 23, 2009
A three hour daily commute for some people may be considered a terrible waste of time. One commuter found a very practical way to use that time and made leaps towards making his dream come true.
He would write.
For author, J. Albert Smith, that endeavor paid off. He has two published novels under his belt and many more ideas percolating in his mind.
Smith always wanted to be a writer and found writing to be a form of expression that helped him say what he was too shy to vocalize with words.
“I've always had a lot to say,” Smith said, “However; I was at one time shy.”
Smith’s writing ambitions changed directions when at the age of 18 he won a radio essay contest. WDAS radio in Philadelphia sponsored an essay contest where contestants had to write about music. Smith won first place. He won $1000 in records, tickets to a concert and a newfound confidence.
“That was when I realized I had a talent for writing.” Smith said.
Smith had his first novel published by Publish America in June of 2007. That novel, Blue Sunday (The Judgment) created some scandal for the author in Philadelphia where the fictional story takes place. His second novel, Landscaper (The Unearthing) was published by Publish America in December 2008.
A Chat With Author J. Albert Smith
How do you come up with the ideas for your stories?
I've always had a vivid imagination and I look at life as if it were a play. Whatever I see is a potential story. The Landscaper idea came to me while gazing through the window. I noticed landscapers working on the grounds of my work area. I thought about how strange it would be if one of the men was a serial killer who planted his victims along with the trees and shrubs. I get a great inspiration when I am near water or if I think of the ocean.
Describe what happened with the Philadelphia police after you wrote Blue Sunday.
Many of the police officers who read the book didn't care that much for Blue Sunday. Mainly because during the process of the book's release many Philadelphia police were being targeted; some were even killed. I don't think their deaths were related to my book. At least, I hope not.
What made you decide to self publish your series of books: The Invention of the Molly Dolleys?
I find that if you self publish, you have more control of your work. You can set the price of the book and your share of the royalties is greater. It also gives me a feeling that I'm nurturing my child (Book) through its existence.
You're not afraid of hard work, what do you think it takes to make it as a novelist?
I feel a good novelist is one that gives his/her all to the creation of the book and to the readers of the book. Hard work is gratifying and when it yields something special. It is so wonderful to see someone reading your book. I was riding the train one day and this lady was reading Landscaper. I didn't interrupt her I just watch her expression. She seemed to enjoy the book. It felt great! I hope to someday become a best selling author.
Source
- Telephone interview with J. Albert Smith on June 17, 2009
- Answers to questions in his own words via email on June 23, 2009
