Tell us a little about yourself, please.
Basically I am a “blue-collar guy”. It is the world I come from, a world of hard working, hard drinking construction workers, cops, long-shoremen, firemen, railroad workers, bus drivers, truckers, sanitation workers, etc. who were, for the most part, family men who loved their God, their families and their country---unconditionally. Consequently, if you would ask me to describe my work as a writer I would call it “blue-collar” meaning that I believe my work is simple fair, easily readable, no-nonsense, minimally superlative, and flows quickly. There is lots of dialogue and my tendency to be omniscient is obvious. I think that is because the characters and I are part of each other and I know what they are thinking.
What about your latest release?
“The Priest and the Peaches” officially launched on January 1st of this year. It is a story about five, newly orphaned kids growing up in the Bronx during the 1960’s who are now on a quest to remain together as a family. They have no money, the rent is past due, the utility payments are behind and the younger boys need clothes. Teddy Peach 18, is the oldest and he is determined to keep the family together but outside forces are at work trying to get the younger boys, aged 14, 10 and six, into a “properly supervised environment”. Enter Father Tim Sullivan, the local parish priest, who quietly acts as their guide as they begin navigating the turbulent waters of “grown-up world”.
Ok, let’s get down to the fun stuff. If you were stranded on a lush tropical island, and all of your basic needs were met, what two items would you have with you? What person would be with you? Remember, you’re stuck there for an indefinite period with only each other to occupy the time.
Well, I would probably like to have a bible. You can read it over and over and discuss it with the person who is with you. Since I am a mid-60s senior citizen I would also like (you ready) some denture cleaner. The person I would like to have with me would be my wife. She always has my back and my best interests at heart and could more than likely figure out a way to prepare the food that was available.
If you could play opposite any of your lead characters, which one would it be and why?
Probably, Dancer. He’s young, impetuous, and contrary. He would try to BS me but I am wise to him. I know that in due time I’ll wear him down and he’ll be the kid he should be. Plus, we love each other.
If you could lead any of your secondary characters, which one would it be and why?
I’m thinking the drunken attorney, Tom Hagenjack. Underneath his perpetual, drunken stupor is a kind man who is simply a victim of his own addiction. Maybe I might be able to reach out to him and help him get sober even though I know it is something only he can do.
You’re locked in a closet with Johnny Depp, Colin Farrell, Kate Beckinsale, three paperclips and a string. How do you get out?
Well, I would not worry about them or the paper clip or the string. I would just kick the door down (trust me, I can do it) and walk out. I would make sure that they are all okay and then be on my merry way.
Name five things you can do with a pencil.
Print & write, sharpen, erase, sketch and use as a weapon.
Who’s your favorite character from your book(s)? Why? Don’t worry, we won’t tell.
Father Tim Sullivan. This man grew up in the “Hell’s Kitchen” section of Manhattan down by the docks. He is street wise, and tough yet has a simple faith which allows him to see the Hand of God working even amidst chaos. He is not preachy, heavy handed or authoritarian, and has the ability to make folks smile.
There should be more people like him.
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