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INTERVIEW WITH MICHAEL CONNELLY
This interview with Michael Connelly was done on June 22, 2002.
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The books shown at the left are the most popular Michael Connelly books. Click on them to see details.
From all the books you have written, do you have a favorite?
My favorite book is probably The Last Coyote because it was the first book I wrote after retiring so to speak from being a reporter. It had my full attention and it was a great time in my writing life. The book was also the fullest character study of Bosch and that is another reason why I like it.
At what point in time did you realize that writing was "the thing for you"?
When I was in college I kind of switched from enjoying books from the standpoint of a reader to enjoying them for their craft and art. That was when I started thinking about being a writer.
What advice would you give to someone interested in becoming a writer?
If you are going to be a writer then write everyday, even if only for 15 minutes. That was the advice given to me. It worked.
What is the name of your favorite mystery movie?
Chinatown.
What other authors do you enjoy reading?
The list is too long and I would leave people out and I don't want to do that.
What other types of jobs have you had?
Since college I have only been a writer of one kind or another. Before that I did about every job you could do in a restaurant. I also worked a lot of different construction jobs.
Do you attend conventions and signings?
I usually attend a couple conventions a year.
Is there anyone, in particular, who influenced you?
Raymond Chandler, Ross MacDonald and Joseph Wambaugh probably had the greatest influence on me.
What led you to write mysteries?
I have always loved crime novels so it was sort of a natural path for me. I am writing the kind of stories I love to read.
Do you read reviews of your books?
A pretty good number of them I read, usually several weeks after they've been published.
How would you like to be remembered?
I haven't really thought about that. I suppose as a good storyteller.
What do you believe is the highlight of your writing career so far?
I don't know. It has all been a highlight. I hope the real highlights are still to come. But I've enjoyed the whole ride and know how very fortunate I have been.
Do you write on a fixed schedule or do you wait until thoughts come to you?
I try to keep a fixed schedule. I follow the advice of writing every day.
How did you get started in writing?
I used newspaper work to help me move into the world of fiction writing. It put me into the world of the police department and also gave me a good work ethic when it comes to needing or having to write everyday.
Did you take any classes on how to write?
In college I took journalism and creative writing classes.
Do you ever get writer's block?
I don't know if I would call it writer's block but I have had difficulty in the past getting started on a book. To me starting is the hardest part. But once I get rolling and get into a groove I am all right.
What are your hobbies and interests?
I like fishing and golfing and racketball.
How do you spend your free time?
On a boat.
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