Interview with Rich McLaughlin

Jen: This weekend we welcome Rich McLaughlin to Book Talk. Rich, will you please share a short bio with us?
Rich: I moved to Southbridge in 1980. I am the proud father of two beautiful daughters. I am also a Springfield graduate with a BS in Human Services, a motivational speaker, author, and aspiring poet.

Jen: Tell us about South Side Hustler and where it's available.
Rich: South Side Hustler is a story about some of the issues the young men in urban areas deal with.

One of those issues is no father’s in the household so these young men look for guidance in the streets. Most of the time that influence is a negative nature. The issue is the choices that we make and the decisions that we think we are forced into. It is in all bookstores located in the City of Wilmington. It’s available on line and also through myself.

Jen: At what age did you discover writing and when were you first published? Tell us your call story.
Rich: I always liked poetry. It was at 12 I realized I could make stuff up easily. Actually when we came of age my friends use to get poems from me for their girlfriends. 5ive Star Publications gave me my first shot and we been like family every since.

Jen: How does your family feel about your career?
Rich: They are very supportive. My mom says I could always come up with a lie quick, and I was a good story teller. She says it’s no surprise that I wrote a book. LOL

Jen: Do you have a writing routine?
Rich: No not really I just sit down and get to typing. Then I fluff and add to the story later.

Jen: What kind of research did you do for this book?
Rich: Life’s experiences.

Jen: What’s the most challenging aspect of writing? Easiest?
Rich: Time! With work, family, and life’s issues. Not to mention I just graduated from college so I was also a full time student at the time I wrote this.

Jen: What’s the most rewarding aspect?
Rich: The response I get when people as well as peers realize that I am the author.

Jen: Where do you draw your inspiration?
Rich: Just life itself. I’ve been in some rough situations and I’m glad to be where I am in my life right now. I’m blessed and I know it.

Jen: If your book was made into a movie, which actors would you choose to play the hero and heroine?
Rich: Omar Epps would be Raymir and Tarji P Henson would be Tasha.

Jen: Who are some of your favorite authors and books? What are you reading now?
Rich: Carl Weber and Eric S. Gray. Currently I’m reading Something On The Side by Carl Weber.

Jen: What's next for you?
Rich: Well I’m currently working on Part II to the book.

Jen: Where can you be found on the web?
Rich: Facebook, my email for that is Richyvirgo@yahoo.com. Also on www.myspace.com/ southbridgehustlerrm is how you can locate me on there. Also at 5ivestarpublicatons.com.

Jen: Is there anything you’d like to ask our readers?
Rich: If you happen to read my book please contact me at one of the above areas and give me some feedback. That would make book II that much better. I thank you for taking the time out of your day to share with me and I would like to end with peace and blessings.

Jen: Rich, thanks so much for being out guest this weekend. Readers, we're giving away a copy of South Side Hustler to a random commenter. So, leave a comment and you'll be entered. I'll pick a winner on Sunday, April 19 around 5 pm PST.