Interview With Local Authors: Alfred J. Garrotto

How long have you lived in the Bay Area? Which parts?

I have lived in the Bay Area since 1972. I've resided in Lafayette, Pleasant Hill, Martinez, and Pittsburg.

When did you get your first book published?

My first book, Christ in Our Lives, was published by Winston Press (Minneapolis, MN) in 1980.

What type of books do you write?

I write both fiction and nonfiction. In addition to Christ in Our Lives, my nonfiction books include Christian and Prayer (1981), Christians Reconciling (1981), and The Wisdom of Les Miserables: Lessons From the Heart of Jean Valjean (2008). I am currently writing a second volume in the "Wisdom of Les Miserables" format.

Between 1996 and 2007, I published five novels: A Love Forbidden (Picasso Press, 1996), Finding Isabella (Genesis Press, 2000), Circles of Stone (Hilliard & Harris, 2004), I'll Paint a Sun (Genesis Press/Kensington, 2007), and Down a Narrow Alley (2007, Lulu Press, Inc.). I have a baseball novel on the back burner, waiting for its time.

Why do you write?

Writing allows me to release a lifetime of reflection on major issues that all humans experience. I firmly believe that there is truth in fiction. So, whether I write novels or nonfiction the goal is the same: to tell the truth as I see it and experience it.

My secondary reason for writing is to leave a legacy to my daughters and grandchild(ren). I want them to know me better and remember me through my writing.

How involved are you with the community?

I'm quite involved in the Central Contra Costa County community. As a lay minister on the pastoral team of Christ the King Parish, Pleasant Hill, I am directly involved through various programs that help people learn more about themselves and their spiritual side. I also offer support to the parish's many outreach programs that attempt to meet the needs of local community members, particularly those in need of material, psychological, and spiritual assistance.

You are a former President of the Mt. Diablo Branch of the California Writers club, can you tell us the function of the club and what types of things go on at these meetings?

In 2009, the California Writers Club is celebrating its 100th year of promoting excellence in writing. Originally founded by a group of celebrated local authors, including Jack London, the organization provides a place for professional and aspiring writers to meet, network, and improve their written communication skills. The club meets monthly for lunch from September through June, usually on the second Saturday. Our Mt. Diablo Branch has over 150 members. At our meetings, guest speakers (published authors, editors, literary agents, publishers, etc.) who have achieved success in the literary industry share tips and ideas on how we can improve our writing and achieve greater success. Visit our website at http://www.mtdiablowriters.org/.

Are you still a member of the club?

I have been a member of CWC Mt. Diablo for 13 years and currently serve on the board of directors. I am Programs and Website Chair.

What challenges have you faced as an author?

The biggest challenge I face is in marketing my work. I'm not a famous author, therefore I need to take advantage of every opportunity--like this one--to get my work out before the public. I am building an online platform by maintaining a growing presence on the web. I have a website: http://www.blsinc.com/garrotto.htm. I blog at http://wisdomoflesmiserables.blogspot.com/. I'm on Facebook and Twitter. My books are available through all the major online booksellers (and some minor ones). I take every opportunity to do author events (signings) at local bookstores. I'm available to speak to writing and service groups and book clubs. For most authors, marketing is an ongoing challenge, but an essential effort.

Who were some your influences as a writer?

The greatest influence on my writing is Ron Hansen, bestselling author of Exiles, Atticus, Mariette in Ecstasy, and other great novels, and the nonfiction Faith and Fiction. Ron showed me that I could express my religious/spiritual beliefs in novels. Following his model, I have done my best to discuss important life issues in my fiction, as well as my nonfiction writing.

What types of books would you recommend for young readers?

I don't write for the youth market, but I'm quite interested in promoting reading (and writing) among our youth. I say to young people, "Read anything that interests you."

What do you think is the best way to get young people excited to read?

I wish I knew. My own children--now adults--were not devoted readers growing up, even though their dad was a writer. In their post-college adulthood, they are beginning to discover the pleasure of reading for their own enjoyment.

Who are some of your favorite authors?

Victor Hugo has to hold first place for me. Les Miserables is my all-time favorite novel. My reading tastes are pretty eclectic, from spirituality to World Wars I and II fiction. My favorite spiritual writer is Ronald Rolheiser (The Holy Longing, The Restless Heart). A favorite war novelist is Jeff Shaara (The Rising Tide, The Steel Wave). I'm leaving out a host of fine writers whose books have entertained and inspired me.

What are some of your favorite books?

I've kept a record of books read since 1999 and average over 30 books a year (not a lot by some standards, but a lot for me). Anyone interested in seeing my favorites of the last decade can search on my name on Shelfari (http://www.shelfari.com/). I also have a complete list of my best reads since 1999 on my website at http://www.blsinc.com/favoritebooks.htm.

Do you have a website we can visit?

http://www.blsinc.com/garrotto.htm

http://wisdomoflesmiserables.blogspot.com/

algarrotto@comcast.net

Where can we find your books?

My books are available for sale at Amazon.com and other online booksellers.
I offer autographed copies through my website.

Several of my novels are in the Contra Costa County Library system.