How long have you been writing?
I’ve been writing for fun my entire life, but I’ve been pursuing it seriously for the past eight years. Growing up in a poor part of California, my family didn’t have many material possessions. Despite that, I managed to collect a number of comic books, which fueled my imagination and provided endless entertainment.
When I was in second grade, my teacher held a creative writing contest in the classroom. The prize was a brand-new Star Wars action figure (see picture). When it was my turn to read my story, which was about a boy trapped in a haunted house, I poured so much enthusiasm into the reading that I won! That moment was when I realized I could use my imagination, through both drawing and writing, to entertain others.
Do I need formal training to be a writer?
No way! However, your writing will become better the more you study and practice. It helps to know what you are doing, so study hard in school, but practically anyone and everyone can be a writer.
Where did you come up with the ideas for Camp Hero?
All of the ideas for this book came from things I observed around me. I also get a lot of my inspiration from my own four children and the kids I work with on a daily basis. I also like to tap into my inner child and ask, “Would ten year old me think a particular situation was cool, funny, and suspenseful?”
How long did it take you to write both Camp Hero books?
It took me about two and a half years from start to finish. It took about a year and a half to write the manuscript and then another year to edit it. Once finished, my manuscript still had a ton of mistakes in it even though I was an elementary school teacher for many years. It goes to show you that no one is perfect and that editing is really important if you want your writing to be top notch!
Will you visit my classroom?
Absolutely! I just need an invitation and a time that will fit within my flexible lunch break since I still work for my school district. Currently, all classroom visits are free. A classroom visit will consist of a book reading, an overview of this site, and other helpful hints to improve your writing style. A brief question and answer period will follow. Your teacher or adult leader may contact me at Tmgrayauthor@gmail.com to request a visit.
How much money do you make being a writer?
I make around $1.22 for every book I sell on Amazon, and I dedicate all of that money to buying items that help foster youth. Recently, I bought soccer cleats for a ten-year-old who had been playing on his team in regular tennis shoes. Writing brings me happiness, especially knowing I’m helping others find joy in reading and writing.
If you want to support the cause, Camp Hero Book 1 and Book 2 are available for purchase on Amazon.com. Please help spread the word.
The Star Wars figure I won (above). The cleats I purchased for a foster youth by selling my books (below).
Thanks for visiting! 🙂
Author Todd Gray 