Interview with Author Michael Tanzer
Author Michael Tanzer is a young adult with autism. Her is also an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Advocator who has written several articles for a Canadian magazine called Autism Matters (Autism Ontario). He has also written a book based on his own personal experiences and would like to share his Point of View (POV) on life with Autism. He hopes that the readers will gain a better understanding of individuals with ASD (short for Autism Spectrum Disorder).
Tell me more about your latest book
This book is filled with many different topics that that I have a POV (Point of View) on, based on my own experiences growing up with Autism. Everyone with ASD (short for Autism Spectrum Disorder) is different. This book is NOT intended to provide any professional advice. It is a personal account of my experiences living in a world where others have NOT always understood me. I hope to shed some light on what it is like to live with Autism.
What was the most challenging aspect of writing this book?
One of the most challenging aspects of writing this book was trying not to give up. When I first had the idea to write this book, I shot it down in my head. Even after I started writing, I wanted to quit. I would think, “No one is going to care about me or this book”. I would even beg people who supported me to let me delete it. I was afraid people would make fun of me and that this book would be a huge flop. It took a lot of time and convincing from others that I really should not care what people think. I just had to do it. This book is for me! Yes, I do hope it MIGHT help someone else who has ASD, their family members or professionals who support people with ASD.
What is your normal procedure to get your books published?
After writing the book I sent a draft copy to a few people whose opinion I really valued. I wanted to get their feedback and help with some of the editing. I didn’t want to edit the book too much. There are some grammar mistakes (and even punctuation mistakes) and that is okay, as this is how I speak. I like to call it, my MICHAELISM. Another reason why I call it “MICHAELISM” is because I do not understand a lot of vocabulary and grammar. I wanted the book to truly reflect me. I then had to find a graphic designer and finally a company to help me self-publish my book. Thankfully, my long-time coach and friend has written two books, so she helped me with this whole process.
Do you view writing as a kind of spiritual practice?
It really helps me to calm down when I write. It is much easier than speaking. I have been doing it ever since I was younger. When I was younger, my coaches and teachers always encouraged me to write. So, I guess in a way it is sort of like a spiritual practice. I can write how I feel and why I feel a certain way based on what is going on in my life at that moment.
How many books have you written so far?
This is my first book but maybe not my last. Who knows!
What’s the best way to market your books?
I try to promote my book on social media platforms such as Facebook groups, Instagram and YouTube as well as doing many interviews on Zoom. Of course, my family members and friends are also helping to promote my book. I would love to do an author meet and greet at a bookstore once Covid restrictions are lifted.
How hard or easy is it to establish and maintain a career in writing?
It can be hard. There are some months when I don’t sell very many books and that is upsetting. I try to get creative and find ways to post about relevant topics on my social media hoping that it will attract viewers and of course people who will be interested in buying my book.
What is your advice for aspiring writers?
Just do it, surround yourself with the ones who care about you and most importantly, believe in yourself. What do you have to lose?
Visit Author Michael Tanzer book links:
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/michaeltanzerasd
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Michaelism-My-POV-Life-Autism/dp/1777146909/
Apple Books: https://books.apple.com/us/book/id1529703798
Google Play:
YouTube Channel (The Real Michael Tanzer): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_g-gpKypHzPt53jL6GDrdg
Instagram:
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