An Interview with Charles Kern
A nerd. Every sci-fi or fantasy movie or novel gains my attention. Warhammer, Risk, Stratego, love it all. I am an avid historian with memberships in numerous clubs. But the greatest accomplishments in my life are being a father and a grandfather … or Oppa, as my grands call me. Being an author is nice; being a father is spectacular!
Tell us the story of your book’s title. Was it easy to find, or did it take forever?
As I traveled around the world, I would see words and titles that I found interesting. I was in PA once and saw the sign for the home of Haldane, a famous local writer. I thought that would be a great name for the titular family in my novel.
How did it feel when you first saw your book cover? Or when you first held your book in your hands?
The sense of satisfaction and accomplishment is tempered with a heavy dose of trepidation. In many ways, the writing of a book is easier and more familiar than the marketing of the book. I did not understand when I started writing my first book, Haldane Fall, that I was just starting on the journey. But the solid evidence of having your achievement in your hands is most gratifying. The fantastic cover artwork from the Atmosphere team really makes it shine. Validation!
Who/what made you want to write? Was there a particular person, or particular writers/works/art forms that influenced you?
My parents used to read me and my siblings Pilgrims Progress at bedtime. Then, as a little boy, I first read The Hobbit; I was hooked on reading. Thousands of books later and I attribute it all to my deceased parents, who started my love of the literary. I then progressed to Asimov and Clark, Lewis and Brooks. My first two books are science fiction but I have every intention of writing in multiple genres.
What other professions have you worked in? What’s something about you that your readers wouldn’t know?
I have done it all, from waiter to manager. Food industry and transportation. Most of the time, I end up in management, My wife says it is because I am bossy … Go figure!
What was the most rewarding/meaningful part of publishing your book?
Book signings. I love meeting with people, especially people who have read my work. It’s almost as if my writing comes alive and exists in reality. Reading is a personal form of entertainment, allowing the reader to visualize another time and another place. I love talking to them and hearing their impressions.
If your book had a soundtrack, what are some songs that would be on it?
Heavy Metal, from the movie. I would much rather have that soundtrack than the one from Star Wars. Although we know which is more well known. But I like the edge, the roughness and texture. Give me Blue Oyster Cult any day.
What is one thing you hope readers take away from reading your book? How do you envision your perfect reader?
Entertainment, that their time was well spent. Emotion, that I triggered a response that will live with them longer than when they read the last page. I pour lots of life, lots of experiences, lots of hidden gems and subtle innuendo into my writing … My perfect reader would pick up on all the little “goodies” I put in.
What creative projects are you currently working on?
Haldane Saga will have a third, and possibly a fourth novel, to finish out the story. Right now, it is marketing, marketing, marketing!
How was working with Atmosphere Press? What would you tell other writers who want to publish?
Quick and responsive teammates; every time I had a question they were there for me. Ronaldo Alves was fantastic, as were Mia and Alex. They will get my future work as well.
Are you a writer, too? Submit your manuscript to Atmosphere Press.
Atmosphere Press is a selective hybrid publisher founded in 2015 on the principles of Honesty, Transparency, Professionalism, Kindness, and Making Your Book Awesome. Our books have won dozens of awards and sold tens of thousands of copies. If you’re interested in learning more, or seeking publication for your own work, please explore the links below.