Hi Jeff,
You probably answered these questions a million times by now, so let's do it one more time.
1. How long have you been writing?
As long as I can remember, going back to at least age 6. I studied Journalism in university, but ended up working an office job because, quite frankly, I didn't want to live in my parents' basement for my entire life.
2. Is Elf off the Shelf your first book?
Yes, it is. I know some writers might hate hearing this, but I was extremely fortunate to get my first book published.
3. How long did it take you to write?
"Elf" was written over the course of the time between Thanksgiving (US) and Christmas 2012. I published each entry on my Facebook page, which became challenging because I had to both take a photograph and come up with a short verse to accompany it each day for 30-something days.
4. Who or what was your inspiration?
I'd seen people posting parodies of "Elf On The Shelf" on Facebook in the past, but they always depicted their elf (with various names) in situations that were more appropriate for a heavy metal band on tour. I wanted to write something that would be fun, but also would reflect the magic of the holiday season and impart a positive message. Since I do a lot of work with younger children (pre-K), my immediate inspiration was something that mom and dad could leave out, and not worry about young eyes seeing things they shouldn't.
5. Who is your target audience?
Primarily adults--but that is not to say that children above the age of 8 or 9 won't like the book. I like to say "Elf" is a family-friendly adult holiday book.
6. What can readers expect?
Honestly, to (hopefully) be entertained. And to perhaps recapture some of the magic of the Christmas season they experienced as children.
7. Is there a sequel or another book in the making?
I'm contemplating doing a follow-up to "Elf." Let's just say there have been quite a few requests for it. I also have a series of children's books, featuring a little dog named Tuffy and his friends, scheduled to debut in February 2014. I've already completed three stories, written specifically for pre-K and early readers.
8. What do you do when you're not writing?
When I'm not writing, I'm very active in helping rescue and place shelter dogs. I have several dogs myself, all of whom were rescued from animal shelters or that I'd literally found abandoned on the side of the road. I also enjoy watching sports--particularly football, both American and Canadian, baseball, and hockey. I also love to cook, read, and spend time with my girlfriend, Carrie. Unfortunately, all of these things have to be scheduled around my J-O-B.
9. Where can Elf be found?
"Elf" is available in print and Kindle formats on Amazon.com, through my publisher (Rocking Horse Publishing--www.rockinghorsepublishing.com), and hopefully soon through Barnes & Noble.
Thank you Jeff and best of luck with your work.