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Author Interview: Koos Verkaik
Each Sunday, I'll be interviewing a different author about their writing journey. If you are an author and would like to be interviewed for this series, please complete this application form. If you have any questions, or if you want to recommend an author, please get in touch by emailing me at bryony@bryonyleah.com.
About Koos Verkaik
Koos Verkaik is a Dutch author who has published over sixty different titles. He publishes both novels and children's books in The Netherlands and the USA.
HIM, After the UFO Crash
Soon available again: June 2018.
Publisher: Righter’s Mill Press, Princeton, USA.
For Film: Three Corners Entertainment, Princeton, USA.
Click to read more by Koos Verkaik
Where and when did you first know that you wanted to become a writer?
I was seven when I wrote my first (little) books. I had my own 'library' and one could rent the books for a nickel or a dime. I gave the money (via my mother) to charity.
Who is your favourite author?
Jack Vance. He was an American author who wrote amazing Fantasy.
How long did it take you to write your first novel?
I wrote my first novel, a Sci-Fi, when I was 18. During a long weekend! It was published right away.
Do you plan out your novels or just start writing?
I just start writing (after I have an idea in my head).
Click to read more by Koos Verkaik
Description or dialogue?
Both. I have been a copywriter and a writer of scenarios for mainly Spanish artists. Learnt to describe things, learnt to write dialogue.
Have you ever read your book reviews/comments, and if yes, what did you think of them?
I have had great reviews and I am extremely proud of it.
Do you believe in writer’s block?
I've never had writer's block. I write every day, including the weekends.
What has been the most difficult challenge you’ve had to face as a writer?
Many publishers have asked me to write series. I had to deliver the text on time—but I was never ever too late!
Click here to read The Monster Inn by Koos Verkaik
What does literary success mean to you?
Much, to be honest. I work hard and finally have contracts in the USA for all my work. That means the world to me.
What’s your favourite self-editing technique?
Reading my own texts aloud!
Click to read more by Koos Verkaik
Are you working on a novel right now? If yes, can you tell us a little about it?
I've just finished a novel about an artist who makes his sculptures so good that they seem to come alive. He wonders about that himself. And when he finds out where he actually comes from, he is scared to death. The title is The Lost Art.
Which book are you most excited to read next?
It will be a non-fiction book, probably about history.
What is your best piece of advice for aspiring writers?
Go your own way. Just write. And write more. Never give up.
Where is your favourite place to write?
I have a work room, filled with a couple thousand books and four guitars, hundreds of CDs, laptops, and...a lobster looking at my doings from its tank!
Click to read more by Koos Verkaik
Of all the books you've written, do you have a personal favourite? If yes, which book, and why?
HIM: After The UFO Crash will be published in a couple of weeks by Righter's Mill Press, Pinceton, USA. For film, I am under contract with Three Corners Entertainment.
What is the coolest experience you've ever had as a writer?
I said no to an offer from a publisher in the USA for my series of children's books Alex and the Wolpertinger. One hour later, I had a contract with another publisher.
Do you write full-time, part-time, or just as a hobby? If full-time or part-time, how long did it take you to get to this stage in your writing career?
I write full-time. I have worked as a copywriter for an agency. Then I started working for myself. Many publishers had work for me. In between, I wrote books for myself—and they were all published.
Click here to read The Monster Inn by Koos Verkaik
Have you ever Googled yourself? Did you like what you found?
Oh, yes, of course. I liked what I found. Only good things!
Is there any part of the writing process that you really hate?
No. I like to think things up and I like to write things down.
What time of day do you prefer to write?
I start at half past seven in the morning and stop at six o'clock in the afternoon.
Do you need to feel emotions strongly to become a good writer?
Yes, I guess so. When I write about someone smiling, I have to smile as well. When I write sad things, I can feel sad myself.
Click to read more by Koos Verkaik
How do you feel after writing 1,000 words?
Not tired at all. This is what I do. I am used to it.
Do you research your books before you begin writing? If yes, how long do you spend researching?
I read lots and lots of non-fiction books. I always remember important things and am able to find them back.
How do you decide your characters' names?
I have different special books for that. Which books? That remains a secret...
Click to read more by Koos Verkaik
If you weren't a writer, what job would you like to have?
I'd like to be playing lead guitar in a band.
Do you weave personal experience into your writing?
Yes, there is nothing you can do about that.
Enjoyed the interview? Connect with Koos!
Facebook: Koos Verkaik
Website: www.koosverkaik.com
Goodreads: Koos Verkaik
If you are an author and would like to be interviewed for this series, please complete this application form. If you have any questions, or if you want to recommend an author, please get in touch by emailing me at bryony@bryonyleah.com.
