What inspired you to write your memoir?
I moved to Catalina Island in 1978, planning on a one-year chance to do something different. Thirty-two years, two sons, and a lifetime of unique and interesting experiences on the Island, I retired. Along the way I became harbormaster. As harbormaster, my interactions included my involvement with the death of actress Natalie Wood, and dozens of other events that I always wanted to share with others, but did not have the time to dedicate to writing.
About your Book:
In addition to my involvement with Natalie Wood’s death, I was also front-row center in dozens of harrowing and often dangerous storm responses and situations, a multitude of incredible encounters in the wild, both at sea and on land, and many memorable stories as both a harbormaster and a father and husband.
My memoir has touched the lives of many boaters and visitors to the Island, and has also intrigued readers that are not familiar with Catalina. It reveals what it is like to live on a remote island where buffalo roam, without stop signs, red lights, or even street addresses, and the ocean can affect your existence in ways that you cannot imagine.
How did you decide how to publish your book and where is it published through:
I submitted my book to nearly 100 ‘conventional’ publishing houses, but after getting rejection notices from all those that responded, I decided to self-publish with an online company. This was not a good idea. I should have done more research, been more patient, and sought outside advice. My publishing experience was (is) a huge disappointment…..but, I do feel good about my minimal success.
How do you see writing a Memoir as different from writing other genres of books?
Writing a memoir was a cathartic experience for me. It allowed me to reveal my experiences from the heart, and share the realities of my unique lifestyle with others. It’s easier in some ways than creating a novel, but more difficult in others. I found that I revealed personal details of my life, and my character, that would probably not be exposed through fiction.
At the same time, writing a memoir gives a writer the opportunity to convey a sense of history in a method that could not be accomplished through a work of non-fiction.
Author Bio:
I am one of eight children whose parents died when I was in my early teens. After struggling for a few years, I met my darling wife and moved to Catalina Island, where we lived for 32 years, raised 2 sons, and shared a lifestyle that can only be described as incredible.
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