Q&A with author Jensen Glennon-Dodd, author

I recently had the pleasure of interviewing Jensen Glennon-Dodd, author of the soon-to-be-published book Discovery.

I recently had the pleasure of interviewing Jensen Glennon-Dodd, author of the soon-to-be-published book Discovery. I have known Jensen and his family for a long time, as part of our NAS Stafford Community, and have watched him grow up into a confident and articulate young man.

I was thrilled for him when I was told that he had found a publisher for Discovery and was keen to arrange a meeting where we could chat about his ideas and his inspirations. I am grateful to Jensen for offering me his time to talk about Discovery. We talked about many things in addition to the book, and the time flew by!

Q: Congratulations – how does it feel to be a published author?

It’s very satisfying to know that my work is wanted, that a publisher recognises that my work can help people.

Q: Tell me about the book, Discovery, what’s it about?

It’s about the importance of vitamins and minerals, what each one can do, where you can find them such as in food, natural herbs and oils. I also talk about any side effects, and throughout the book I advise people to consult their GP to be absolutely sure that what they are taking is going to be right for them. Each chapter details a different vitamin and mineral, in alphabetical order, so it’s easy to navigate. I also look at issues which target particular groups of people, such as menopausal women and the elderly.

Q: What inspired you to write Discovery?

I spotted a gap in the market; I used to work at Holland and Barratt in Stafford and I spoke to many customers who said that this sort of guide would be helpful. I realised that the most successful book of this kind was 40 years old and was much lengthier. It’s 4-5 times the length of my book! I thought something simpler and clearer was needed. I’ve always had an interest in healthy eating and even took a qualification equivalent to an A level in offering advice on vitamins and minerals. I was then able to write my own book, in my own way, a book I wanted to read – simple and straightforward, and something you can dip in and out of, and go back to when necessary.

Q: What was your writing process – a target of words a day/gradually/how long did it take to write?

I broke it down; I’d do a bit each day. I’d focus on each chapter for a week or two, the introduction then the different sections; then I’d proofread each chapter over and over again. It took me about twelve months to write but I loved doing it. It’s also taken just as long for the publishing process to complete!

Q: How did you find a publisher?

At first, I went on to the Penguin website and read an article on how to get published. I chose not to go down the self-publishing route because a traditional publisher will support you more and guide you through everything. I felt I needed the support of a big team. You also have a higher chance of being successful. I had to submit a synopsis and I did this to ten different publishers. I ended up with three offers, and I chose Pegasus Publishing partly because they were the first to offer me a contract; but I also read through their description of how they help authors through the process, and it seemed like they would be the most supportive. I can’t fault how they’ve treated me! I’m the kind of person who need answers to questions as soon as possible; I’ve had so many questions and they’ve been very good at responding within 24 hours to any queries I have.

Q: What has the publishing process been like?

I started with an editor, who dealt with the contract, and then I was passed on to a production co-ordinator who dealt with proof-reading, jacket design, writing the blurb, co-ordinating with me and generally overseeing everything. After I had signed off the manuscript to say that I was happy with all of the changes, I was assigned a marketing co-ordinator to promote Discovery. I provided her with contacts they could email such as radio stations, Facebook groups (including NAS Stafford!) and she has given Discovery a national placement with WHSmith. I almost can’t believe it; two years ago, I would never have thought I’d be in this position. I’m very excited to see my work going out there but very nervous. Will it be successful?!

Q: Do you see yourself as an inspiration to aspiring young authors, and aspiring autistic writers?

I hope so. I want to show autistic people that nothing is impossible if you put your mind to it. Just go for it! Be confident, never believe you can’t do it.

Q: What advice would you give to young people wanting to write about something that interests them?

Do it! When you write about something that interests you it doesn’t feel like work, it comes naturally. Even in the long winter evenings when I was putting in hours of work, I enjoyed it, and felt excited to do it. It also shows the world who you are as a person.

Q: You and your family have been members of NAS Stafford for a long time, and I’ve known you since you were very young. You’ve had challenges over the years, as an autistic person. Can you describe some of those challenges?

I think one of the main challenges for me was self-doubt, not always believing in myself as much as I should. Also, over-analysing criticism, and letting those who were critical of me get into my head instead of rising above it. Other people haven’t always believed in me too, and I want to show that I can do it, no matter what other people think or say.

Studying A level English, it was all about fiction; non-fiction interests me much more. I enjoyed writing non-fiction because I didn’t have to worry about whether I was using enough metaphors! I was able to write with a freedom and flair that perhaps I couldn’t experience when being limited to writing literary criticism.

Q: What are you planning to do next? Any more books?

I’m concentrating right now on marketing this book as well as I can but I’ve had a few ideas, perhaps writing a more child-friendly version, with an emphasis on the importance of nutrition. I could try to do my own illustrations but I think I’m better off relying on a professional!

Jensen’s book Discovery will be published on August 29th and is available to pre-order from WHSmith online.

https://www.whsmith.co.uk/products/discovery/jensen-glennondodd/paperback/9781837943340.html