Author Interview ~ Steve Alten, Part II

Philadelphia native, Steve Alten, holds a Bachelors degree in Physical Education from Penn State University, a Master in Sports Medicine from the University of Delaware, and a Doctorate degree in Sports Administration from Temple University. His first book, MEG; A Novel of Deep Terror hit the N.Y. Times bestseller list, and was sold in more than a dozen countries.








How do you handle the fans who step over the line of appropriate behavior?


I can handle a few negative comments, you have to have thick skin. Once I had one woman who was making e-mail threats. Now she swims with the fishes… (kidding, the wounds weren’t mortal).

What is your favorite and least favorite part of being a writer?


Most favorite: seeing the first editions and getting paid. Least favorite: Fighting to get publicity. It just chews up time but you must do it.

What do you do to publicize your work?


Everything. And I mean everything. Two years ago at BEA I walked around in a kilt to promote The Loch. Publicity is very hard. But I have a monthly newsletter that helps draw fans, and my books are big in schools, which helps a lot.

What is the “Adopt an Author” program all about?


Adopt-An-Author is a free nationwide program that encourages teens to read. I founded the program back in 1998 after I became inundated from e-mails from teens who hated to read but loved MEG. (I later learned teachers were using the novel in school after it was named the #1 book for reluctant readers by the Young Adult Library Services Association).



AAA has been called “the most successful teen reading program being used in secondary schools today.” Students communicate with best-selling authors through interactive websites, e-mail, classroom phone calls, and school visitations. Teachers receive access to free curriculum materials, study guides, test, quizzes and projects. To learn more go to www.AdoptAnAuthor.com

Parting words?


I invite your readers to contact me via my website: www.SteveAlten.com Be sure to register for free monthly newsletters so you can get updates and enter contests to become a character in one of my upcoming novels!