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J. Patrick Lewis
What is your connection to Ohio?
My family and I migrated to Columbus, Ohio from Indiana (my home state) in 1968. I began work on a Ph.D in Economics at The Ohio State University, which I received in 1974. I have been a Buckeye ever since.
What inspired you to become an author?
My blue-collar parents inspired in my brothers and me a love of reading early on. I wrote mostly economics articles until I approached the dawn of my fortieth birthday. Then Lady Poetry seized my by the nape of the neck and wouldn't let go. Though I have published numerous poems and stories for adults, it is the genre of children's books---where the marriage of text and art is greatest---that has become home to me. Poetry, to me, is a blind date with enchantment. Who could resist it?
What advice do you have for a young author?
Three words: Never fear failure. Embrace it. It's the only sure path to success. Specifically, if you want to be a writer, promise yourself that you will always be a rewriter. And of course: Make reading as necessary as eating.
What do you like to do for fun?
When I was young, I played basketball. Still do, thanks to the hoop on my garage. I once made 33 free throws in a row. But I can't imagine having more fun than reading books.
Links:
J. Patrick Lewis Homepage
