An Interview with Andy Barrow

Andy Barrow is a New York–based writer whose debut novel, Peter in Progress, draws inspiration from his own later-in-life gay awakening. When he’s not writing, Andy is likely perfecting his backhand, chasing his next cold brew, or making up for lost time on the dance floor — preferably with nineties icons (Crystal, CeCe, Whitney …) on rotation. While embracing life as a gay man and author, Andy somehow manages to maintain a day job; he’s a proud educator who recently earned a doctorate in curriculum, instruction, and innovation.

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Tell us the story of your book’s title. Was it easy to find, or did it take forever?

Both! Peter in Progress was one of the first five titles that I brainstormed; ‘progress’ came up in my list of themes, and the alliteration was naturally attractive. But then I went down many, many rabbit holes … for a time, I thought Thirtysomething Baby Gay might have more market appeal; then I was trying out every possible subtitle (Peter in Progress: First Year Out, and such …). I asked so many friends and early readers, and no one seemed to have the same opinion. But, in time, I returned to that initial instinct (as one does!), and I do think it most simply captures both the tone and core message of the book.

How did it feel when you first saw your book cover? Or when you first held your book in your hands?

I received my first proof copy a few days before Christmas, and boy, did it feel like a gift. I remember feeling it through the mailing package and thinking … no … this can’t be it … did I order a book I forgot about? But I opened it and saw the rainbow spine and sort of left my body for a few seconds. I’m not being hyperbolic when I say it was one of the most truly joyful moments of my life. I had printed out so many copies of the manuscript; had ached to see and hold a real book in my hands for so long. Surreal!

Who/what made you want to write? Was there a particular person, or particular writers/works/art forms that influenced you?

I have loved writing since first grade, when I saw my teacher’s very impressed face at my fiction narrative about getting stuck in a cornflake box. But in my adult life, I wasn’t writing much, outside of weekly newsletters for work (I was a school principal). Then the pandemic hit, I had more time (and some existential angst), and I started entering short story contests online. As I started to grapple with my sexuality, writing became even more important to me; a place where I could sort out everything I was going through.

What other professions have you worked in? What’s something about you that your readers wouldn’t know?

I’m an educator by day. I’ve been a teacher and a school principal; now I consult with schools and districts. I have my doctorate in curriculum and instruction. On top of that, you wouldn’t know that I’m a total tennis fanatic! Surprising that the sport only gets one mention in the book.

What was the most rewarding/meaningful part of publishing your book?

So many aspects of this journey have been deeply rewarding. Just recently, I got a message on my author Instagram account from a reader I don’t know, who shared how the book was so important to him because he had gone through a similar later-in-life coming-out experience, and had felt very alone during it (as had I). That was really my original hope in publishing this particular book — to let even one other person know that they weren’t alone if they found themselves questioning their sexuality in their mid-thirties. That was super special. Also, this week I saw my book in the window of an independent queer bookstore, and that was pretty thrilling. My launch party was also an absolute blast — a mix of old friends I hadn’t seen in decades and brand-new author friends.

If your book had a soundtrack, what are some songs that would be on it?

My book DOES have a soundtrack! It’s on Spotify. I made a playlist of all the songs mentioned in the book. You can listen at https://tinyurl.com/3ad6btnd or search Peter in Progress: The Playlist on Spotify.

What is one thing you hope readers take away from reading your book? How do you envision your perfect reader?

I hope readers will come to embrace the idea that, even as adults, we are dynamic and unfinished beings; and that it’s important to stay curious about yourself. I think our culture dangerously celebrates ‘knowing yourself’ inside and out. I’ve learned that we can be full of big surprises — and that those surprises can be really important and beautiful — but it takes work to stay open, to keep interrogating yourself, and to be playful with your identity. I hope Peter can be an encouraging example of second (or third, or fourth) adolescence. His journey is complex and often challenging, but ultimately for the better (with lots of fun stuff along the way!).

What creative projects are you currently working on?

I have few versions of a Peter follow-up outlined … an outline and first few chapters of a different novel … and a historical fiction idea that I would really love to explore. I also recently had a short play produced in New York and really enjoyed that, so I’m seeking other opportunities there. I’d also like to build up my website/blog and am thinking about doing a serialized fiction piece. Many ideas, not enough time!

How was working with Atmosphere Press? What would you tell other writers who want to publish?

I’m honestly thrilled with my experience. I found every stage of the process to be, as promised, author-centric, collaborative, and professional. I felt I was in good hands that wanted to guide but not overpower me, or my work. For a new author, I think that’s a very special combination. As for other writers … my first editor advised me to pursue every possible publishing pathway, but to focus on getting the work out there. I think that was great advice. There are many ways to do it, and your individual goals and hopes and expectations should inform the path you take; but in the end, if you see a way to get your book to readers, seize it. The more stories told, the better!

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