"Q&A with Ryan Washington"

June 12, 2017

Book: The Alley Rats

Author: Ryan Washington

Photo Courtesy of Ryan Washington

Author: Ryan Washington

Author Bio:

Writing has always been a way for me to pass the time. I’ve been writing stories since middle school and the habit just clung to me. I’d been reading since I was 2, so it only made sense to contribute stories to the plethora I was reading. School only contributed three things to me: content, conflict, and characters. Other than that, life was an adventure to be had that I later felt could be transmuted into fun stories, untold universes, and stark treks into the incomprehensible. It’s never been a fear of mine, but a wonder to see just how far I can stretch the human imagination.

I want to paint stories of horror, comedy, action, and romance that don’t strive to be so unique that they become lost in their taboos, nor do I want to piece together a book of clichés and plot-holed scenes. I’m not saying I won’t someday make those, everyone does. I just want to write something I can look back at and smile at—not because it’s perfect, but because it compelled me to do better.

1. What was the writing process like for your book?

The writing process was difficult for this book. Each character has their own distinct voice, but making sure their voices don’t get confused with someone else’s was a task on its own.

2. Do you plan to write more books in the future? Will there be a sequel?

I definitely intend to write more books in the future. There will be a sequel, but it will accomplish what its predecessor couldn’t.

3. What’s your best advice for getting through writer’s block?

My best advice is to stop calling it writer’s block and to keep writing. When you say the phrase “writer’s block”, you’re telling yourself that you’ve hit an obstacle and that usually isn’t the case. When you’ve written yourself into a corner, that’s the optimal moment to use your

When you’ve written yourself into a corner, that’s the optimal moment to use your imagination and write yourself out of it. Another issue that occurs with “writer’s block” is that it’s usually the result of lazy writers who don’t want to write. Keep writing, even if you’re stuck. Sooner or later, you’ll figure it out.

4. Why should people read your book?

People should read my book so they can see the dos and don’ts of writing. Where my book falls short, it makes up for in other fields of creative writing. Other than that, the story is entertaining and the characters are unforgettable.

5. What do you hope readers get from this book?

My biggest hope is that readers fall in love with the characters as I have. They’re all so colorful, but have their own dynamic way of walking through life that makes them all the more interesting. I also hope they ask questions that can’t be fully answered. I hate writing something that gives away everything before I really get started with a series.

Places to Find More From This Author:

Facebook: Ryan Washington