It’s a personal memoir so the story already existed. However the inspiration to put it down on paper was from a book called Unstrung Heroes, which was about another ten year old’s perspective, named Franz Lidz, who I grew up with, and who authored that book.
Arnie “Tokyo” Rosenthal – 17 June 2018
The Back Flap
Tragedy always hits when we least expect it. It seems like it’s always another person who goes through the unthinkable, but when Arnie “Tokyo” Rosenthal has to face his own tragedy, what was previously unthinkable becomes reality. In Our Last Seder, ten-year-old Arnie tells the true story of his introduction to mortality, the consequences that follow, and how he and his family got through their life-altering tragedy.
About the book
What is the book about?
The book is about a family tragedy that happened when I was 10 years old and told from a 10 year old’s perspective.
When did you start writing the book?
January 2017
How long did it take you to write it?
About 3 months
Where did you get the idea from?
It’s a personal memoir so the story already existed. However the inspiration to put it down on paper was from a book called Unstrung Heroes, which was about another ten year old’s perspective, named Franz Lidz, who I grew up with, and who authored that book.
Were there any parts of the book where you struggled?
Oddly no
What came easily?
The entire book just poured out of me. It was waiting over 50 years to be written.
Are your characters entirely fictitious or have you borrowed from real world people you know?
Everyone and everything is real.
We all know how important it is for writers to read. Are there any particular authors that have influenced how you write and, if so, how have they influenced you?
Yes, as I mentioned, Franz Lidz inspired this book. Bruce Springsteen’s recent autobiography influenced my style as well.
Do you have a target reader?
Anyone who was a child and has memories.
About Writing
Do you have a writing process? If so can you please describe it?
I drop everything else that’s going on in my life and devote all my time to writing and editing the book. I write the same time everyday. I consider the book my full time job. I create chapters and for the most part write in chronological order as my memory serves me.
Do you outline? If so, do you do so extensively or just chapter headings and a couple of sentences?
Yes I outline but not extensively. Basically just the subject of that particular chapter.
Do you edit as you go or wait until you’ve finished?
I edit as I go but I don’t go overboard as I know that a professional will be going over it also.
Did you hire a professional editor?
My publisher provided an editor.
Do you listen to music while you write? If yes, what gets the fingers tapping?
No, I’m a professional musician and I’d be totally distracted by having music in the background as I write. I listen to music differently than most people.
About Publishing
Did you submit your work to Agents?
Sometimes
What made you decide to go Indie, whether self-publishing or with an indie publisher? Was it a particular event or a gradual process?
I found that with indie publishers I could have more control with the final product, the marketing effort, the design, and the retail pricing. It’s the same reason that I’m with an indie record label as a singer-songwriter.
Did you get your book cover professionally done or did you do it yourself?
My publisher submitted some ideas and I chose one of them.
Do you have a marketing plan for the book or are you just winging it?
Absolutely have a marketing plan. In store signings, reviews, social media, ethnic touring, TV/Radio, and combining presentations with my music performances.
Any advice that you would like to give to other newbies considering becoming Indie authors?
Yes, have a marketing plan and a decent budget for it. Also have time designated to going on the road to promote. This is not a part time game. Also don’t expect to get rich from this. You’ll have a better chance at success if you lower your expectations.
About You
Where did you grow up?
Long Island, NY
Where do you live now?
Chapel Hill, NC
What would you like readers to know about you?
That I’m an award-winning singer- songwriter.
What are you working on now?
My next book, called The College Years – ’69-’73, and a film deal for Our Last Seder.
End of Interview:
For more from Tokyo visit his website and like his Facebook page.
Get your copy of Our Last Seder from Amazon US or Amazon UK.
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