About the Book
Dominick Rivoli, a kind and clever 10-year-old boy, suddenly finds that he has grown claws, fur and fangs. In the blink of an eye, he must figure out how to live as a powerful – and hungry – lion while still finishing his math homework. Can he manage all this while resisting the urge to devour the bratty school bully, even though she looks quite delicious? It won’t be easy.
About the Author
I have been an editor and reporter for a major U.S. newspaper for the past 32 years. I live outside of New York City with my wife with whom I have three grown children. Aside from writing, my passions are fishing, travel, the beach and hiking. I also have a TikTok channel called “Juicy News,” which is my take on some recent news stories.
Qn 1: Can you tell us more about your book What is it about?
The Boy Who Became a Lion is a fantasy about a boy innocently walking to school when he suddenly realizes he has turned into a lion. He’s grown claws and fur and has a new urge to eat almost everything he sees. Rather than being scared of his new body, he loves it. But he has to figure out how to get along in the world of suburbia as a lion. The adults don’t seem to mind, and many don’t even notice, but some of the other kids don’t like the idea and make life difficult for this charming but shy boy.
There is a subtle lesson for children, and also adults, about acceptance and tolerance for those who are different from you. It’s not a heavy message and the book certainly is not preachy. It’s a light, little tale that’s fun and, I hope, sweet.
Qn 2: Who do you think would be interested in this book, is it directed at any particular market?
Children ages nine to twelve or fourteen would be most interested in the book and it is aimed at that group, but I think almost anyone would enjoy it. It’s like any classic story, “Rudolph” or “Charlie Brown.” It features children but it’s really about all people.
Qn 3: Out of all the books in the world, and all the authors, which are your favourite and why?
I loved so many books: My favorites are The Sun Also Rises, The World According to Garp, Fire Starter and Bonfire of the Vanities. Of those I’d have to give the edge to Bonfire. It’s one of the few books where I could not wait to read more.
Qn 4: What guidance would you offer to someone new, or trying to enhance their writing?
There is only one way to get better at writing: Write, write, write. But be honest. Write about subjects you know well. If you try to fake your way through the reader will see that in two seconds. The story and characters will ring false. But the great joy of writing is that you are a creator. You can make any world or person or story that you wish. It’s an awesome feeling to create.
Qn 5: Where can our readers find out more about you, do you have a website, or a way to be contacted?
There are websites for my books. The Boy Who Became a Lion. The Deviant. And Sea No Evil. My own website is in development and will be live soon.
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