Jeremy C. Gredone is a storyteller whose love for narrative transcends the page. He weaves tales that enthrall and inspire, one of which led him down an unexpected path–writing a children’s book sparked by a fantastical spider anecdote. Departing from the bustling city to reside in a mountain cabin, Jeremy’s creative journey has seen the birth of five screenplays, over thirty short stories, countless poems, and the unforeseen creation of a cherished children’s story. His adventurous spirit, evident in his spontaneous decision to join the Peace Corps straight out of college, took him to the West African archipelago of Cabo Verde for three years, where he passionately taught English and garnered invaluable life lessons that continue to shape his perspective. Jeremy attributes this leap as one of his most rewarding decisions, cherishing the profound richness it brought to his life. We’re pleased to have the opportunity to ask Jeremy some questions about his book Maxwell and his writing career thus far!
Is there a message in your children’s book that you want readers to grasp?
The message in my children’s book that I want readers to grasp is really the embracing of the power of imagination and the beauty of dreaming big! “Shoot for the moon, land on the roof!”
Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?
I always want to be accessible to a large audience, but I still want my message to be deep. Finding the correct balance there can be tricky.
How many books have you written and which is your favorite?
This children’s book is my first, although I have had some of my poems published.
If You had the chance to cast your main character from Hollywood today, who would you pick and why?
Well, my main character is an animated spider so I’m not sure he could be easily cast.
When did you begin writing?
My writing began in my late teens really with poetry. Throughout all my years of writing (screenplays, short stories, children’s book) poetry had always been there, and has generated a lot of subject matter for me.
How long did it take to complete your first book?
My children’s book Maxwell took a couple of years to write and then the illustration process took a couple more years.
Did you have an author who inspired you to become a writer?
I’m a big fan of short stories and particularly love the work of Raymond Carver. I also love the short stories of Chekhov and Hemingway, but Carver really reached me on a deep level.
What is your favorite part of the writing process?
I love all of it, but coming up with an ending that really resonates and echoes within the reader long after they close the book–that’s just got to be my favorite!
Describe your latest book in 4 words.
The power of imagination!
Can you share a little bit about your current work or what is in the future for your writing?
Along with the poetry and short stories, I’ve written five screenplays that run the gambit from drama to comedy to thriller to horror. I’d love to get at least one of those from the page to the big screen at some point!
