An Interview with Vincent Rubino

Vincent Rubino, aka “Vince” or “Vinny,” was born and initially raised in Brooklyn, New York, before his family moved to North Bay Shore, Long Island. He graduated from Brentwood High School before attending college in upstate New York. Vince returned to Long Island to attend Hofstra School of Law, then relocated to Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, where he met his wife, Julie. Julie and Vince built a house in Stroudsburg, which is where they raised their two fantastic children, Rena and Katie, both now New York City residents. Vince had always wanted to commemorate his time as a paperboy in The States and is happy to share the exploits he and his friends enjoyed a half century ago.

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

The original title was Paperboy Summer. It was changed after suggestions by my Atmosphere Press developmental editor, Jonathan, and my daughter, Katie, who both believed that the original title could limit the appeal of the book to potential readers. Also, I like to think that Nebraska Avenue is not just a story about paperboys and is more about friendship and growing up. I’m glad I listened to the opinions of others — particularly those smarter than me.

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

You can write a story with tens of thousands of words, a plot, characters, and a beginning and end, but it’s not really a book until you can hold it in your hands. When I held the first copy, I felt a priceless feeling of having accomplished something — created something that nobody else could. I like to think that what Nebraska Avenue will be around long after I’m gone, even if it’s just sitting on the bookshelves of.my family and friends.

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

I expect I’m supposed to have a favorite author or great inspiration, but nothing like that influenced my decision to write a book. Mostly, I just wanted to prove to myself that I could create something out of nothing. After doing so, I wanted others to read what I had written, which is where Atmosphere Press came in. If it wasn’t for Atmosphere Press, my months of work would be nothing more than a saved file on my computer.

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

I’ve been a fry cook, gas station attendant, 7-Eleven worker, cafeteria worker, adjunct professor, and an attorney. My favorite job of all, however, was my very first — paperboy.

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

So far, it’s been the favorable initial reviews. But I’ll be honest and tell you that reading them for the first time makes me VERY nervous. I’m talking “I think I might get sick” nervous!

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

I attended my first concert with three of my fellow paperboys, Artie, Wally, and Franco (all of whom are prominent characters in Nebraska Avenue). Since it was a Billy Joel concert, I’d have to say that Movin’ Out, Easy Money, and We Didn’t Start the Fire could fit the themes of the book. We’ll need to wait for the movie to find out.

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

In my life, I’ve learned that the overwhelming majority of people are good and helpful and kind. My “perfect reader” might be someone who needs a reminder that the Wallys and Gabbys and Sister Maria Vespas of the world far outnumber the Ricky Bauers and Sister Mary Stroppas. Alternatively, someone who is nostalgic for the ’70s, is a former paperboy, or just wants to read something fun.

What creative projects are you currently working on?

I’ve got some creative ideas, but mostly I’m just working my day job, trying to spend time with my family, and wondering what’s for dinner.

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

I did my research before deciding on Atmosphere Press, and it was better than advertised. There were so many professionals helping my dream becoming a reality that it was difficult to keep track of them! But each of them had a specific job and was excellent at it, not to mention timely and responsive. Hiring Atmosphere Press was a wonderful investment.

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