By: hjbookblog
Today it is my pleasure to interview author G. M. Savage. His debut novel Jack Mathias and the Boonetown Bandits is available for purchase now on Amazon.
Have you always wanted to be a writer?
I didn’t know I wanted to be a writer consciously, but it would spontaneously happen. I’d be reading a story and become somewhat upset by the turn of events in the plot. I’d be like, “Why would they do that? This would’ve been so much better if etc.”
What made you pen down Jack Mathias and the Boonetown Bandits?
I think it was a longing to write the story that I always wanted to read. There were many stories I grew up loving, like; Hatchet, Maniac McGee, My Side of the Mountain, and Where the Red Fern Grows, but I wanted to take all of the things I loved about those stories and somehow roll them into one.
Tell us a little about the plot and themes the story deals with.
The plot is straightforward. It’s your classic adventure story quest. It was something that I struggled with at first since there’s that part of my brain that feels I need to make things overly complex. But in time, I just said yes to the simplistic nature of the story. On the surface, it’s light, simple, and fun, but there’s also a deeper metaphorical layer to the story that some may pick up on.
The theme is all about finding oneself and innocence. Growing together and realizing that the moment holds what we’re searching for.
What are your favorite genres to read?
Without a doubt, it has to be Middle-Grade. I love the innocence and how the world still feels new and exciting.
How long did it take you to write Jack Mathias and the Boonetown Bandits?
It took about three months to write the first draft but about two years to edit and get things how I wanted them. The easiest part of writing for me is the first draft. Drafts 2, 3, 4, etc..… are what I feel is the difference between just a good idea and good/great story.
Did you have a writing schedule?
I don’t have a schedule. I write when I feel the urge or the impulse.
I will say that the wintertime seems to be when I’m most apt to write for hours on end. But with that being said, I do write all year long.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
My favorite things to do are nature based. Hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and snowboarding are all things that I enjoy.
Are there any new projects underway?
I am currently working on the sequel to Jack Mathias and the Boonetown Bandits. I also have a kid’s picture book in the works. You can stay up to date via Instagram at gmsavage_author.