An Interview with John Peragine

John Peragine is an award-winning author and master storyteller of the fantasy genre. With a passion for world-building and character development, John has created immersive and unforgettable worlds that have captivated readers around the globe. He is known for his skill in crafting complex characters that readers can relate to and root for.

His debut novel, Max and the Spice Thieves, has been praised for its intricate plot, vivid imagery, and memorable characters. Drawing inspiration from classic fantasy epics, John weaves a tale of adventure, magic, and danger that will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.

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

My journey as a writer began when I was a child, a latchkey kid who often found solace in the quiet corners of the local library. While other kids spent their summers outdoors, I gravitated toward the library’s typewriters, captivated by the idea of putting words on a page. It became a space where I could create entire worlds, fueled by my imagination. This early exposure to books and the tools to write helped shape my passion for storytelling from a young age.

The works that most influenced me were deeply rooted in adventure and fantasy. I was particularly inspired by J.R.R. Tolkien’s epic tales, with their rich worlds and complex characters, as well as the action-packed Conan the Barbarian series. The timeless adventures found in Arabian Nights and the thrilling quests of Treasure Island sparked my love for grand narratives where the stakes were high, and the landscapes were vast and vivid. These books weren’t just entertainment; they were blueprints for the kind of stories I wanted to tell.

Beyond the specific influence of these works, I was drawn to writing because it provided an escape and a way to process the world around me. Being a latchkey kid, I had plenty of time to reflect and let my imagination run wild. Writing became my way to craft the adventures I longed to experience, and over time, it grew into more than just a hobby—it became my calling, inspired by the same timeless works that had sparked my love for storytelling.

What inspired you to start writing this book?

The inspiration for this book came from one of the most challenging times in my life, when my son became seriously ill. As a parent, I felt helpless watching him endure countless doctor visits and medical procedures. Writing became a way for me to regain some sense of control. Books, I’ve learned, can heal as much as they can entertain. The story I wrote for my son was more than just a distraction; it was a way to cope with the overwhelming emotions that come with a sick child, turning him into the hero of a world where he could overcome any challenge.

It all started when my son was about four years old, and he developed severe allergic reactions that left us terrified and searching for answers. His red welts appeared seemingly without cause, and doctors couldn’t explain why. The diagnosis of Cold Urticaria with Angioedema—a rare condition in which temperature changes could trigger life-threatening reactions—left our family navigating uncharted waters. To help pass the time in hospitals and to lift his spirits, I began writing a story where he was the main character, a boy with cold sensitivity who discovers it is part of a magical ability.

What started as a simple bedtime story for my son became an important part of our journey to healing. His enthusiasm for the story, with his own feedback and excitement, pushed me to keep writing. Years later, after he had stabilized on medication, he asked about publishing the book, which led me to realize how much this story meant to him. The book, while unconventional, helped us cope as a family and brought joy in the darkest times. Now, my son is eagerly awaiting the rest of the series, proving that sometimes the stories we least expect to write can make the greatest impact.

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

The title of the book came naturally, as it was centered around my son, who was both the inspiration and the hero of the story. He played a key role in helping me choose the title because it was important to him that his name be part of it, making the story personal and empowering for him. The title was a way to honor his bravery throughout his illness and to solidify his role as the hero in the adventure we created together. So, rather than a lengthy process, the title emerged easily from the heart of the story itself.

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

If my book had a soundtrack, it would be a blend of modern anthems and timeless classical pieces that capture the essence of adventure, magic, and the emotional depth of the story. I’d include “Heroes” by David Bowie to embody the themes of bravery and overcoming adversity, resonating with my son’s journey in the book. “Somewhere Only We Know” by Keane would evoke the sense of discovery and the magical, hidden places the characters explore. For the epic battles and moments of triumph, “Viva La Vida” by Coldplay would add the right energy. In the quieter, more poignant scenes, “Fix You” by Coldplay would beautifully convey the healing and deep bond between father and son.

To bring in a classical touch, I’d add “Jupiter, the Bringer of Jollity” from Gustav Holst’s The Planets suite for its vibrant and hopeful energy, perfect for scenes of wonder and victory. For moments of tension and mystery, Edvard Grieg’s “In the Hall of the Mountain King” would create an atmosphere of suspense and anticipation. And for the most tender, reflective parts of the story, Claude Debussy’s “Clair de Lune” would provide a gentle, emotive backdrop, echoing the themes of love and healing. This mix of classical and contemporary would mirror the book’s blend of adventure and heart.

Describe your dream book cover.

My dream book cover became a reality thanks to Chris O’Brien, the artist who has created the covers for all the books in the series. It took some time to find the perfect artist, and before Chris, we had quite a few expensive missteps along the way. I wanted the cover to capture the essence of adventure and magic, while also making the hero—my son—the focal point. Chris understood this vision and brought it to life in a way that exceeded my expectations. His work perfectly aligns with the tone of the stories, making the covers as meaningful as the words inside.

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

Before becoming a full-time ghostwriter and journalist for outlets like the New York Times, I had a diverse career path. I worked as a social worker, which gave me a deep understanding of human behavior and resilience. I also spent time as a classical symphony musician, an experience that taught me discipline and the beauty of artistic expression. Nursing was another chapter in my professional life, where I learned compassion and the importance of care in difficult times. These professions shaped my approach to storytelling, allowing me to weave empathy and complexity into my writing.

Something readers might not know about me is that I was once a professional clown. It’s a part of my life that surprises many, but being a clown taught me the importance of humor, timing, and connecting with an audience. It’s an unexpected skill set, but one that has helped me in both writing and public speaking, adding a layer of creativity and playfulness to my work.

What books did you read (for research or comfort) throughout your writing process?

Throughout the writing process, I turned to a mix of books for both research and comfort. For world-building and adventure, I revisited classics like The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien and Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson, both of which shaped the tone and scope of my story. I also found comfort in Arabian Nights, with its rich tapestry of magical tales and timeless wonder, which inspired the fantastical elements I wanted to bring to life in my own writing. Additionally, On Writing by Stephen King was a guiding light throughout the process, offering practical advice on the craft and providing reassurance during moments of doubt. King’s insights on discipline and storytelling helped me stay grounded, while these other timeless works fueled my creative imagination. Together, they were the perfect blend of inspiration and guidance.

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

One thing I hope readers take away from my book is a sense of adventure and the joy of storytelling. At its core, the book is meant to spark imagination and transport young readers into a world where anything is possible. It’s not just about the hero’s journey, but about inspiring kids to see themselves as capable of great things, no matter what challenges they face. I also hope it serves as a way for families to connect, with parents reading alongside their children, sharing in the excitement and wonder of the story.

My perfect reader is a child who is eager for adventure, someone who loves the thrill of discovering new worlds and characters. They’re curious, imaginative, and perhaps a little mischievous, just like the hero of the book. But beyond the kids themselves, I envision parents who are looking for a meaningful way to bond with their children through reading. My goal is for families to share these stories together, discussing the plot, the magic, and the lessons learned along the way.

Ultimately, I hope the book not only entertains but also inspires children to develop a love for reading. I want kids to feel excited about picking up another book after finishing mine, to keep exploring new stories and adventures. If I can help even one child discover the magic of reading, then I consider the book a success. My hope is that it becomes a cherished part of bedtime routines and a catalyst for a lifelong passion for books.

Are you a writer, too? Submit your manuscript to Atmosphere Press.