Interview:

Is “THE BOYS CLUB” your first script? If not, what else have you completed?

No, it is my tenth. Most of my previous screenplays have been family comedies.

Why did you write "THE BOYS CLUB? And how long did it take you to write it?

The Boys’ Club” is about a group of eccentric seniors who get themselves into all sorts of trouble. I was inspired by my parents. Having spent a great deal of time with them and their friends, I discovered that senior citizens are some of the most interesting characters around. Many of the bits and dialogue exchanges in the script came from observing them.  

Describe your process; do you have a set routine, method for writing?

I write twice a day. I walk to the local library with my laptop and spend my lunch hour writing. Then I end each day (10:30-midnight), when the house is quiet, with another writing session.

What inspires you to write?

There is nothing like a writer’s high. When you crank out material that really seems to click, there is a euphoria that is difficult to describe.

Apart from writing, what else are you passionate about?

The Chicago Cubs.  

What influenced you to enter the Movie Script Contest?

This contest had above-average writer reviews. I especially like what is now happening with the winning screenplays. In most contests, the first, second, and sometimes third place winners receive all the attention. It is wonderful to finish 7th in a competition and to have your material circulated to prospective producers.

Do you feel that screenwriting contests are worthwhile for writers and why?

Find a set time each day to write. Write when you’re tired. Write when you’re busy. Write when you’re ill. Never make an excuse to miss a day.

Who is your favorite screenwriter or writer and why?

Lawrence Kasden. The sheer volume and diversity of his writing is staggering (Star Wars, Raiders, Body Heat, The Big Chill, etc.) Who wouldn’t want to have been credited with writing any of these classics?

Any advice or tips you’d like to pass on to other writers?

Find a set time each day to write. Write when you’re tired. Write when you’re busy. Write when you’re ill. Never make an excuse to miss a day. 

What’s next for you?

Last month I was offered a two-book deal from Penguin Books for Young Readers for a pair of middle-grade novels. My first final draft is due April, 2010 (for a summer, 2011) release. Then it’s back to work on the second novel in the series, due out summer, 2012.