Introducing Author Michael Murphy
What a treat we have in store for us this week. My guest is Michael Murphy, author of Goodbye Emily. This is a sometimes nostalgic, sometimes sad and downright funny book about returning to Woodstock and reliving the days of youth. If you’d like to read my review click here.
Interview with Michael Murphy
By L.Leander
Where do you write? What’s your creative space like?
I used to write glued to my home office computer, but in the past year I’ve added a wireless keyboard to my tablet and now write in the backyard with my chickens, 
around the pool or patio. Freedom via technology!
What is your favorite writing tool?
As I mentioned, my tablet is a fabulous tool. In addition to writing, I can pause and check something on the internet and since my current work in process is historical fiction, that comes in handy when checking slang words in the 1930s for example.
What movie star would you pick as one of the characters in your book and why? I’ve been asked this more for my return to Woodstock novel, Goodbye Emily, than any of my previous books. I think it’s because readers often comment that it would make a great movie. Since it focuses on three baby boomers reliving their roadtrip to Woodstock, I envision Tom Hanks as Sparky, Billy Bob Thornton or Sam Elliott as Buck and William H. Macy as Josh.
What did you want to be when you grew up?
I always wanted to be an author. I read Gone with the Wind when I was nine. I was a geek even then, still am.
Did you realize that dream?
Just about.
Explain your creative process. Pantser? Outliner?
I’ve always been a seat of the pants author, but I’ve become more formalized as I’ve become more experienced. For example. I write details biographical histories for my main characters so I know how they’ll act or what they might say in a given situation or scene.
If you could only have one mode of transportation what would it be, a horse or a bicycle? Why?
I’m not much for either, but my wife and I have a tandem bike that we dust off now and then. She still looks sweet, upon the seat of a bicycle built for two.
Do you dream about your stories?
Absolutely. Ever written about a dream? Dreaming is the most important part of my creative process. I use it as a tool. If I envision a character or scene before falling asleep, I often wake up with a vivid dream. I also tap into my subconscious on a treadmill.
What’s your favorite theme park?
Definitely Disneyland.
Why?
It’s the happiest place on earth!
Are you a reader? I’m an avid reader.
I write the type of books I love reading, mostly (but not limited to) mystery/suspense with a lot of humor. The master being Nelson DeMille.
Michael says:
My goal in writing Goodbye Emily was to portray sixty-somethings in a realistic manner instead of “get off my lawn” clichés. By realistic, I mean, funny, talented, sexually active and optimistic about the future. From the reviews so far, I think I’ve succeeded.
http://www.amazon.com/Goodbye-Emily-ebook/dp/B00A8IYL2C
L.Leander's Reviews and Interviews 
This is a fantastic book and Michael is fantastic author!
Duncan Whitehead
May 6, 2013
I agree. Thanks for stopping by!
L. LEANDER BOOKS
May 6, 2013
Enjoyed reading some of the details about the writing of the wonderful book I just finished reading: Goodbye Emily! Michael Murphy is a terrific author and I look forward to reading more of his books – so keep writing Michael!
Mutinous Boomer
May 6, 2013
Michael was delightful to interview and I thoroughly enjoyed Goodbye Emily. I can’t wait for another! Thanks for commenting.
L. LEANDER BOOKS
May 6, 2013
Thanks for having me. Enjoyed talking about writing and Goodbye Emily.
Michael Murphy
May 7, 2013
The pleasure was all mine Michael. Love your style of writing and your book – let me know when we can do it again!
L. LEANDER BOOKS
May 8, 2013
It is wonderful to dream and tell the stories. So happy to get to know you and the process better.
renawomyn
May 9, 2013
Thanks for visiting. It is a wonderful thing to tell stories, isn’t it?
L. LEANDER BOOKS
May 9, 2013