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Jim Beck is a freelance writer and produced screenwriter who resides in Burbank, California with his loving wife, rambunctious son, and cute little dog named Monster. He has written for Cartoon Network’s Pink Panther & Pals, produced a short zombie film and independent feature film that was recently selected for Sundance, and is currently awaiting the release of his first direct-to-dvd creature feature.
Jim’s screenplays have placed very high (and in some cases, won) in contests conducted by Cinescape Magazine, Project Greenlight, Acclaim TV, Acclaim Film, and Writer’s Boot Camp, among several others. In the case of Writer’s Boot Camp, he was awarded a one year writer’s fellowship to develop future projects.
Jim runs his own website (www.blackroostercreations.com) and has self-published two full novels,Patient Zero and Virgil: A Superhero Tale. He is currently prepping his third and fourth, a supernatural story called Beneath and his own unique take on the classic Jekyll & Hyde tale. He is also the creator of two ongoing TV In Prose series, Alter Ego and Pest Control, which are books given the television treatment, split into seasons and episodes.
In his spare time, he enjoys watching movies, having open-heart surgery (though it was not his choice), playing video games, and searching the universe hoping to find more spare time.
What inspired you to write your first book?
A friend of mine suggested that I make the attempt, because it would allow me to retain much more control over my stories than screenwriting does. And with self-publishing, I have more freedom than ever.
What books have inspired your life the most?
I grew up reading Encyclopedia Brown, Robotech, and a variety of Star Wars books. I've pretty much been influenced by everything I've read in one way or another. Including comic books. And cereal boxes.
What are your current projects?
My next novel, Virgil: A Superhero Tale, should be coming out in March. I'm also sketching out the remainder of season one for my TV in Prose series of books (Alter Ego and Pest Control) and just starting work on a supernatural thriller detective story called Beneath. After that, I'll probably try to finish my own take on Jekyll and Hyde, which pays much homage to the original novel.
If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book?
That's what I love about self-publishing. Almost every book has errors, but with self-publishing, you can upload a new version within minutes. I used that to my advantage to make a few changes just before the book tour started. As for big changes, I've had a few ideas on additional chapters, so maybe after a year or so, I'll add some stuff and call it Patient Zero: Redux or something.
What has been the toughest criticism given to you as an author?
I just started publishing my stuff, so I haven't received too much criticism yet. The only note I got was about my colloquial style, but that's just me. I'm prepared for the day, however, when I read reviews that completely trash my work. I might cry. But chances are, I'll just treat myself to some ice cream or something to help ease the pain.
What has been the best compliment?
Really, just the stuff I've been hearing from readers about how much they love my book or how their mouth dropped open at the ending. I love hearing stuff like that. If I can get a reader to react in some way to what I've written, I feel that my job is done.
Do you have any advice to give to aspiring writers?
Make sure you devote time to writing each day. Also make sure you have your own website, blog, or both, so that you can discuss your projects and stay connected with your readers.
What is your favorite quality about yourself?
The number of ideas rattling around in my head at any given time.
What is your least favorite quality about yourself?
Procrastination. I tend to put things off more than I should. I get distracted when I need to buckle down and write.
Is there anything else you would like to share?
Only that I love writing and I hope readers enjoy this book and my future stories. Also, if anyone want to contact me through the e-mail address on my website, I'll be sure to respond.
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