Heather’s Bookshelf: Author Interview with David Kummer
Book Title: The Band
Released: 04/04/25
Genre: Horror/Thriller
Interview by Heather L. Barksdale
What inspired you to write “The Band”?
Kummer: "The Band" was actually inspired by a trip I took to West Virginia with my wife. I loved the foggy, Appalachian setting, the small town where everyone is friendly, and I realized it would be a fascinating place to set a horror story. There was live music, as well, and I wanted to write about a cover band, their attempts to stick together, even as the mysterious town around them turns to danger.
How did you come up with the names of your main characters?
Kummer: I had a few of them locked in very early, such as Kate and Johnny. With the other band members, I tried to look up names of famous rock band members and let those influence what I chose. Some of the band members have a "stage name" and then their actual one. Their stage names certainly show a part of their personality, and that doesn't stop when they get off stage.
Is there anything that you want readers to know about you, your writing process or your book?
Kummer: My writing process is a little chaotic and usually slow, but for this book, I actually burned through the first draft in less than two months! I looked up pictures of the town we visited and drew on our experiences to craft a realistic, detailed setting.
If "The Band” were adapted into a movie, who would you like to see cast to play your lead characters?
Kummer: This is always a really hard question! I know that I'd want Austin Butler to play Johnny and someone like Emma Stone to play Emma. (No pun intended there.) With the others, especially Jake, I have a hard time thinking of someone! Readers, let me know!
When you encounter writer’s block, what do you do to break yourself out of it?
Kummer: I try to have a song or painting or both to center me throughout the writing process. Whenever I get writer's block, I go back to that basis. Or I'll think of a new twist to throw into the story, something to bring it alive again. For this story, the "twist" was the motel. I think you'll enjoy how it all weaves together.
Are there any tips that you would like to share with other aspiring authors?
Kummer: Just finish the first draft! After that, you can make it good, but the first draft is the hardest part, so push through and finish it. Even if it's bad (and it will be! It should be!), you can always improve it until you're happy.
What is your favorite book, genre, and/or author?
Kummer: I really like Denis Johnson right now. He's my favorite author of all time and wrote minimalist fiction in America, post-Vietnam War. I'm also reading through House of Leaves and it's absolutely jaw-dropping. I highly recommend! Don't let it scare you off!
What are you working on next?
Kummer: I'm writing Book 3 in my bestselling trilogy that starts with The Misery House. Check that out and jump on the trilogy train before the last book comes out!
Interested in checking out the book for yourself?
Find it for purchase here
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