Heather’s Bookshelf: Author Interview with Brian Forrester
Book Title: The Jungle Within
Released: 06/15/22
Genre: NA Action/Adventure/Thriller
Interview by Heather L. Barksdale
What inspired you to write “The Jungle Within”?
Forrester: For several years my church sent medical teams to the Amazon, which is the book’s main setting. When I heard their stories, the Jungle Within tale welled up inside me.
How did you come up with the names of your main characters?
Forrester: Some are made up, and some are name variations of people I know.
Is there anything that you want readers to know about you, your writing process or your book?
Forrester: Though a page-turning plot is the goal, the characters are more important. People read Jack Reacher books more for him than the story. I’m also a copywriter by trade, and I’ve learned the importance of conflict in a story.
If "The Jungle Within" was adapted into a movie, who would you like to see cast to play your lead characters?
Forrester: The lead male character (Pace) could be Tom Holland and the lead female character (Sage) could be Zendaya. Bonus points because they’re a real life couple!
When you encounter writer’s block, what do you do to break yourself out of it?
Forrester: I don’t believe in writer’s block, any more than a pilot believes in pilot’s block. Yes, there are days it flows, and others it doesn’t. But when I keep showing up, I trust the muse to eventually sprinkle the pixie dust.
Are there any tips that you would like to share with other aspiring authors?
Forrester: (1) Read like a maniac, especially in the genre you want to write (2) Learn story structure — from someone like Blake Synder or James Scott Bell (3) Use Scrivener writing software (4) Write for the love of it, not for the love of fame or fortune
What is your favorite genre, book, and/or author?
Forrester: Ugh... the dreaded question. I admire so many writers, from C.S. Lewis to Neil Gaiman to J.K. Rowling to J.R.R.Tolkien. From that list, you can probably guess my fav genre. But I admire any writer who can transport me into their story.
What are you working on next?
Forrester: A fairy tale fantasy story, geared toward the 12-15 crowd, with the feel of the Narnia books by C.S. Lewis. About 75% done.
Learn More About the Author and The Jungle Within:
Instagram: @thebrianforrester
Website: www.baforrester.com
Interested in checking out the book for yourself?
Find it for purchase here
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