Author, former Navy, and middle school teacher Thomas J. Snee has written three books: What’s Up?… Life!, You Raise Me Up…, and Leadership: Reaching Out, Pulling up, Holding On, To Stand Strong Together. Each of these books are nonfiction, and they explore various self-improving themes and ideas. We asked Thomas some questions about his writing career, and hope to gain some insight on the author and his books!
What is the hardest part of writing your books?
I would say, at first, the hardest part was to say, why not?! Sitting down to compose and write from my perspective was the first step forward and to just do it. For me personally, I preferred to share my experiences, ideas, and thoughts from my life and from those lives that influenced me. Creating a story et al, is for other authors. However, not for me. My impulse was to take that opportunity, or moment, to start jotting ideas down. Once that drive and push is there, I move forward. Not using the “best seller” as a force (but it could be), to be an inducement as a total influence for others. My mantra is, “Never finish, always keep starting.”
What songs are most played on your Ipod?
First off, I do not own an Ipod. I turn on my favorite radio station, Music Stations on TV, or just pop in one of many CD’s I have. To me, it is about the mood I am in, to further myself, and become creative. Sometimes I change course, but I lay out a plan of thought and move from there in expectations, and exploration. My favorite music could be classical, 60’s-70’s; whatever my mood is, I’m in it to the end to be creative.
Do you have critique partners or beta readers?
I have some remarkable close friends that I rely on for “critical review.” They listen and reflect, which is why I rely on their mentorship. Critique partners should be respected for their honesty that you have asked them. Not an “all’s well that ends well,” but a close relationship from their thought to springboard those ideas I see in my next book.
What book are you reading now?
My reading is from other mentorships and experts. I love history and creative measures of a person’s thinking on a subject. I guess with my Psychology/Counseling background I am more interested on how they are formulating their thoughts and could influence me as an author.
How did you start your writing career?
This might sound crazy or out of range, but realistically it was on a dare from one of my former middle school students. He challenged me to write. He told me that with my experiences from the Navy and as a teacher, one who seeks to influence the potential and capabilities of others, to put it in print. I have to admit, this student went to Boston College, and yes, he did the initial reading of my first book, What’s up?… Life!. His reflective, caring mannerism and encouragement launched me to continue. I believe seeking out others to give you that critical review, outreach to expand, gave me the encouragement to continue.
Tell us about your next release.
My next release takes place from a classroom experience. There was a middle school student who always was in trouble with other teachers and much more. During a study period, I went to him in the back of the class in the corner, where he sat and started up a conversation! This young man was very emotional, caring to the heart, but felt the only way to be noticed was to act up. So, he got the attention for which he was hoping. I said I would like to author my next book about him and challenged him to a title.
The next day he came back in, smiling. He said, “Mr. S, call your next book, The Boy in the Corner!”. I realize this may take some extensive research on mental, emotional, and other actions in research. But, in the end believe it will reflect what society has given us, The Boy in the Corner.
