Can You See My Scars? By Samuel Moore-Sobel

4/24/2021

Debut author Samuel Moore-Sobel introduces us to his memoir about a serious burn accident he endured as a teenager, “Can You See My Scars?”:
Can You See My Scars? is a story of trauma, adversity, healing, and recovery. Samuel, a young man about to begin his sophomore year of high school, accepts a job that culminates in a chemical explosion—leaving Samuel with severe burns on his face, neck, and arms. The tragic and sudden accident sets Samuel on an unpredictable journey of healing, recovery, and acceptance.
In the wake of the accident, Samuel endures grief, pain, and numerous surgical procedures for the scars on his body. He grapples with his appearance, faith, and the loss of friends. Through it all, he comes to view his scars as an unavoidable part of the human experience. Whether physical, emotional, or spiritual, we all carry scars—and it is simply what we choose to do with them that defines us. Samuel’s story allows us to see him for who he truly is, while also turning a mirror on ourselves.

Can You See My Scars? explores questions about identity, suffering, purpose, and ultimately, what it means to be uniquely human.

This is one of the best memoirs I have read in quite a while. It is shocking, but encouraging. Samuel remained very candid about his emotional and mental condition throughout the accident and the years-long recovery. His struggle with matters pertaining to his faith was very real and comprehensible.
The scene-setting was good, dialogue worked well throughout the story. The conclusion of the book was very satisfying.
I award 4.8 stars to “Can You See My Scars?”. The score would have been higher but for some spelling mistakes.

You can buy this book:
https://mascotbooks.com/mascot-marketplace/can-you-see-my-scars
https://www.amazon.com/Can-You-See-My-Scars-ebook
https://www.goodreads.com/-can-you-see-my-scars

You can follow the author:
http://www.samuelmoore-sobel.com
https://twitter.com/smoore_sobel
https://www.instagram.com/smoore_sobel

Copyright © 2021 Mark L. Schultz except for the author’s introduction
Tags: burns, trauma, recovery, PTSD, triggers, inspirational

68 Comments

Samuel Moore-Sobel link

4/25/2021 01:36:36 pm

Thank you so much for reviewing my book! I am so glad to know that you enjoyed reading it!

Mark

4/25/2021 03:00:30 pm

I did enjoy reading your book.
First question.
Please, tell us more about yourself. Perhaps something a little bit beyond your bio.

Samuel Moore-Sobel link

4/26/2021 08:34:39 am

I've lived in the same area for most of my life! I was born and raised in Northern Virginia. I am always looking for a good book to read in my spare time. My wife and I love going on nature walks and hikes. These days, we are both working from home and love getting the chance to spend so much time together.

Mark

4/26/2021 10:08:47 am

A lot of people stay in one area, but not nearly as much as a hundred years ago, give or take a few decades. I have lived up and down the west coast and less than a month ago moved to Florida.
We both love a good book. I have read voraciously all of my life.
Working from home as been a blessing for many people, others not as much. I retired a few years ago from construction and have been running my business from home. My wife is retired also.
New questions.
Will you write anymore books?
If so, will you consider become a full-time or remain a part-time writer for now?

Samuel Moore-Sobel link

4/26/2021 02:23:57 pm

Congratulations on the move to Florida! That sounds exciting!
I'd like to write more books in the future. I can imagine several different topics that I could take on, and would relish the opportunity to write another book. For now, I think I will remain a part-time writer. I enjoy my day job and like leading a team. I could see myself maybe devoting myself full-time to writing in retirement. But I guess time will tell.

Mark

4/26/2021 03:06:35 pm

Many writers do that exact thing. But not all have the same reasons as you do.
It sounds like you have been bitten by the writing bug.
New questions.
Will you write more nonfiction, fiction or both?
Are you in the writing business for love of writing or for money?
What kind of work do you do? Feel free to skip that question, if you would rather not answer.

Samuel Moore-Sobel link

4/26/2021 07:21:49 pm

I prefer to write non-fiction. I think there is such power in writing true stories. In my experience, I've found that truth is definitely stranger than fiction, as the saying goes.
I am definitely in the writing business for the love of writing. I wrote my book because I wanted to make a difference in the lives of others.
I work in the tech industry as a manager. I truly enjoy managing my team, and am grateful for the opportunity to help others grow and achieve their career goals.

Mark

4/26/2021 07:31:39 pm

Fiction and non-fiction are both great mediums for sharing truth and insights. One can be more direct than the other.
The love of writing is a great motivator. Making a few bucks is nice also.
We are alike in the desire to help others improve their work and life. I spent 20 years in retail management and 20 years in construction teaching apprentices in on-the-job training.
New questions.
Who designed the cover of your book? Feel free to drop a link if appropriate.
This next question might seem obvious, except that I sometimes miss something the author intended. What do the elements on the cover represent?

Samuel Moore-Sobel link

4/26/2021 10:50:13 pm

Great question! A friend recommended Nathaniel Navratil, and he did an excellent job with the cover! You can find his work here: https://www.nnbrand.com/
The cover represents the loss of my face. It represents the loss of innocence. He chose to fill my face in with a blue shade because it symbolized a body of water, which is a key element of my story. The cover is meant to encapsulate the essence of my story, which is one of tragedy but also triumph. One of immense pain but also healing. The cover came out exactly like I wanted and perfectly encapsulates the essence of my story.

Mark

4/27/2021 07:24:28 am

I found your cover quite intriguing, I returned to look at it quite a few times. I understood the loss of your face, but didn't recognize the significance of the water, intellectually. It is a good cover representing your book. I certainly appreciate why you like it so much.
New questions.
Was it hard to come up with the title?
What was the process?

Samuel Moore-Sobel link

4/27/2021 08:52:38 am

Thank you!

Yes, it was hard to come up with the title. I wrestled with what the title should be for years. I settled on a few different options, but was debating about which title to use as I was going through the publishing process. My editor gave me a few options, but I was still trying to decide. One day, I was talking about my dilemma with my brother, and talking through different options. He said, "Can You See My Scars?" As I heard him say it, I thought it was perfect. That's the story behind the title. I think it's perfect because it touches on so many themes of my own story.

Mark

4/27/2021 10:13:43 am

That is a great story. I love it, a moment of inspiration and you were ready to receive it.
New questions.
Your first book is a paperback and an audio book, besides an e-book. How did the audio book process go for you?
Who narrated the book?

Samuel Moore-Sobel link

4/27/2021 11:17:17 am

Thank you!

The audiobook process was both exciting and challenging. I narrated the audiobook myself. It felt right for me to tell my story in my own voice. I recorded the audiobook by speaking into a microphone underneath a comforter in a carpeted closet in my home (in order to achieve the best audio quality). My wife had experience editing podcasts previously, so she graciously agreed to edit my audiobook. Without her, the process would not have gone nearly as smoothly!

Mark

4/27/2021 12:21:00 pm

Audio books are a great way to widen your fan base and grow sales. There are a lot of people who love audio books. They are extremely popular around the world. Many countries use English as the official language and many more teach it as a second language. There are many millions of people who can only access the internet with a smart phone, so an audio book is the ideal format for them.
One of my favorite bloggers, Joanna Penn, did a blog about DIY audio books, here is a copy-and-paste link for any who wish to read it or podcast it: https://www.thecreativepenn.com/2019/08/07/build-your-own-audio-sound-booth
New questions.
What are the Amazon keywords you chose for your book?
You have written a book and are planning on writing more. Have you considered entering writing contests? They are a good way to polish your writing skills.

Samuel Moore-Sobel link

4/27/2021 03:05:26 pm

That is great to hear! I am hopeful that my audiobook sales take off!

My publisher actually selected the Amazon keywords for me. I have previously considered entering writing contests but have been so busy as of late that I haven't had the time to enter one. I'll have to take a look and see if there are any good writing contests for which my writing might be a good fit.

Mark

4/27/2021 03:33:58 pm

Keywords are very important if you ever decide to self-publish. Self-publishing is the key to keep control of your writing also. Once you sign a contract with a publisher, they may decide that your cover is inadequate, they may require you to do some rewriting, they may postpone releasing your book for a year or until they judge the market is right. Be certain to have a knowledgeable attorney review any publishing contract before signing. Some scammy publishers will try to steal your intellectual property rights, which is far more important than a few thousand dollars.
Writing contests have their shifty characters also. Here is a great blog worth reading about contests, copy-and-paste time again: Beware Bogus Writing Contests! Look for These 8 Red Flags. ttps://annerallen.com/2019/05/beware-bogus-writing-contests/ via @annerallen Anne Allen is one of my favorite bloggers, at the bottom of every blog she has a list of good contests.
New questions.
Every genre's fans have expectations about what they are going to want to read. Fans of cozy mysteries have a set of expectations that can differ greatly from the expectations of fans of hard-boiled murder mysteries.
What expectations do fans of your genre look for in a story that they want to read?
If you were going to launch into a different genre, which one interests you the most?

Samuel Moore-Sobel link

4/27/2021 05:33:44 pm

I think fans of the memoir genre are looking for inspirational stories. In writing a memoir, I learned the art of including details that would be most interesting and applicable to the lives of readers. When I first started writing, there were a lot of details that were in my journal that I ended up not including in the final manuscript (because they simply didn't push the narrative forward). All that to say, I think it's important to write a personal, inspirational tale that includes relatable elements and provides readers with tidbits that they can readily incorporate into their own lives.
That's a great question! I've always been an avid reader of historical non-fiction. So if I had to choose another genre, I would likely take on writing historical non-fiction.

Mark

4/28/2021 06:37:58 am

Those are important elements. You nailed the answer and it shows quite well in your book.
History is a great genre and a lot has been written about many different periods events and personages. I enjoy reading that genre quite a bit.
New questions.
I noticed that you didn’t put your book in Kindle Unlimited. Why is that?
Have you ever gone through the query process, seeking an agent or submitting directly to publishers or did you go straight to indie publishing, and why?

Samuel Moore-Sobel link

4/28/2021 07:50:12 am

Thank you!

At the time of publication, my publisher handled getting the Kindle uploaded to Amazon. I am not sure why they did not put my book in Kindle Unlimited.

I did go through the query process. I did submit my manuscript to both agents and publishers. As a first-time author without a proven track record, I did not receive any acceptances. Indie publishing offered the best of both worlds by allowing me to maintain complete creative control over the project, while also ensuring the creation of an excellent product and helping with marketing efforts. If I had to do it all over again, though, I would definitely self-publish.

Mark

4/28/2021 09:14:52 am

The query process is fraught with many difficulties and numerous rejections for most authors. Traditional publishers are struggling just to stay alive and so they are unwilling to take chances on unknown authors and books.
New questions.
Have you had contact with a vanity publisher or a company you thought might be trying to scam you?

Are there any other advantages for the independent author to self-publish?

Samuel Moore-Sobel link

4/28/2021 10:58:02 am

Yes, I have. I received phone calls from a purported publishing company offering to help with marketing for my book. It was pretty apparent from the beginning of our conversation that it was a scam.

I think the biggest benefit of self-publishing is maintaining sole creative control over your own work. I also believe that it can be more profitable in the long-run, as you get to keep your full royalties once you've made back your initial investment. As long as you have the willingness to go out and plug your book as much as possible, I think self-publishing is definitely the way to go.

Mark

4/28/2021 12:43:08 pm

Scammers are everywhere! They are getting more creative all the time. I recommend subscribing to a blog called Writer Beware. It provides valuable information about scams.
I think self publishing is key for an author’s long-term financial picture. As you mentioned with self publishing an author keeps all the royalties, but that author is also responsible for all of the publishing and marketing expenses.
New questions.
What are the three most important considerations for an independent author to be certain of when signing a contract with a publisher?
Have you started your own imprint? Here is a good article about that idea: https://www.janefriedman.com/why-self-publishing-authors-should-consider-establishing-their-own-imprint

Samuel Moore-Sobel link

4/28/2021 05:46:23 pm

That's a great question! I would say:
1) Be aware of whether or not you will retain intellectual property rights/creative control
2) Be aware of any hidden fees or costs (such as being charged a fee for storing books in the publisher's warehouse after the first year, for example)
3) Understand what marketing efforts the publisher will complete on your behalf for your book.
I would recommend asking every question you have and come to a complete understanding of what is in the contract before signing the contract.
I have not started my own imprint - that's a great idea!

Mark

4/28/2021 06:07:19 pm

Those are great points every author needs to cover. Especially number three. Few publishers do more than list an author's book on their website, Amazon and whatever other platforms they like. Day-to-day marketing efforts such as getting reviews and other promotional efforts fall on the shoulders of the author.
There are many ways to promote a book. Exploiting a niche is good, your book fits a couple of niches, exploiting the local author angle is good also. There are so many ways of doing that. A lot of blogs have been written on that topic, I have links to some good ones on my Highly Regarded Blogs page, use the search box.
Even if an author thinks they understand the contract, I still recommend having a lawyer experienced in these matters go over it, especially if this is the first contract for an author.
New questions.
After leaving off the attempt at traditional publishing, how did you locate your publisher?
What is your publisher doing, if anything, to market your book?

Samuel Moore-Sobel link

4/28/2021 06:35:16 pm

I actually was referred to my publisher through my editor. They knew of someone who had written a book that was published by my publisher. They placed me in contact with their friend, and they referred me to someone who could review my manuscript.
Currently, my publisher is no longer doing anything to help me market my book. Thirty days before the publication of my book and thirty days after the publication of my book my publisher did a number of things to help with marketing (including reaching out to local media, submitting my book for reviews, etc). But ever since, I've been doing everything all on my own.

Mark

4/28/2021 07:00:18 pm

I am glad to hear that your publisher did some marketing for your book. At this time your book has 40 reviews, that is pretty good. I bet you have sold a lot more than 40 books, so few people actually leave reviews.
New questions.
Is using Twitter and other social media part of your marketing strategy? What other marketing ideas do you use?
Did you use ads on Amazon or other platforms such as Facebook or Bookbub?

Samuel Moore-Sobel link

4/28/2021 08:39:09 pm

Yes, thankfully I have sold more than 40 books!

Yes, Twitter and other social media platforms are an integral part of my marketing strategy. I use social media to promote my book, but also to share about my life. I try to be as transparent and authentic with my audience as possible. I want others to see my scars, and how they affect me in the present (both positively and negatively).
My publisher did post ads on Amazon for my book. They did garner sales, which was positive. As far as other marketing strategies, I regularly speak to groups about my story (rotary clubs, faith based groups, support groups, businesses, etc.) This has definitely helped sales. I also have joined quite a few networking group events, and that always boosts sales as well. It's also wonderful to meet others in the community (via Zoom) and hear other people's stories. I believe the world can be changed, one story at a time.

Mark

4/29/2021 07:34:50 am

Congratulations on leveraging your story and making lots of contacts. You are doing a lot and it is paying off for you.
So many authors struggle with marketing and promoting their book and themselves. The truth is the author is the brand, the book is merely a product of the brand. Writing is a very solitary undertaking for at least the first draft. After that it slowly becomes a group effort with beta readers, editors, cover makers, proofreaders and more. A lot of authors are reluctant to take off the creative hat and wear the business hat. Without taking charge of the business side of writing and promoting a book, the author is at the mercy of all they cross paths with and will suffer for it.
New questions.
Do you have a newsletter you send out to fans? Why or why not?
Do you subscribe to any author newsletters?

Samuel Moore-Sobel link

4/29/2021 03:34:57 pm

Thank you!

I used to have a blog that I wrote regularly and distributed to my followers, but it became too much to keep up with between promoting my book and writing my newspaper column. I do send out updates about my book (such as the recent publication of my audiobook) to my email list, but I try to keep those updates to a minimum. I don't want my followers to feel like I am inundating them with emails.

I do subscribe to author newsletters. I've met a lot of fellow authors along this journey, and always enjoy making connections and sharing ideas with others. I always learn something new when talking to someone else. That's part of what makes the human experience so rich - interacting with and listening to others.

Mark

4/29/2021 04:53:05 pm

Writing a newspaper column is a great way for others to find you and get to know you. Blogging is another way, of course. But that can feel like shouting into a void until people start subscribing. A writer can't wait for the readers to show u and then start writing, the writing has to be done first and if the experts are to be believed, blogging must happen regularly.
There is debate among authors with newsletters about the frequency of delivery. Knowing that it is impossible to please everyone I recall at least one author, maybe two, who recently put out a survey asking their readers what was the right frequency for them. The author wound up offering three different frequency-of-delivery newsletters. Weekly, monthly and quarterly; or was it weekly, bi-weekly and monthly, I am not sure. They tailored the newsletters accordingly.
I recall another author who went a different route. They offered three or four newsletters. One had lots of personal stuff, one was strictly promotional with contests, one was about a lot of how the sausage was made, the fourth was all of the above and the longest. A lot of work.
Yes, spending time with others in the same field can be very enlightening. I enjoy every opportunity.
New questions.
In your experience, which marketing avenues have been the most rewarding or profitable?
Speaking of marketing, why did you pick me to help promote your book?

Samuel Moore-Sobel link

4/29/2021 06:31:10 pm

Interesting insights!

In my experience, speaking events have been the best avenues for promoting my book. Having the opportunity to share my story by speaking to an audience helps bring my experience to life, while also making it more relatable to others. I've found that people are much more likely to buy my book after hearing me speak.
I chose you to promote my book because you have a large following on Twitter, and I liked your approach to marketing an author's work. You seem to have a passion for books (which is always a plus!) and are up-front about the requirements and the services that you offer.

Mark

4/29/2021 06:46:47 pm

I think speaking events are a great way to connect with readers. Book signings and readings are another good method. Unfortunately, these in-person events have been replaced with Zoom calls and facetime. That has made the connection a little tenuous, but it is better than nothing. We adapt and move forward.
Thanks, I aim for clarity in both of my services. I have been a life-long reader, since learning to read at the age of 5.
New questions.
How do you think your book compares to a book published by a major publisher?
Have you thought about offering a large-print edition of your books?

Samuel Moore-Sobel link

4/30/2021 10:33:56 am

A book published by a major publisher has obvious advantages. Books published by a major publisher are likely well-written, although the focus of a major publisher is revenue. A celebrity might not be an excellent writer, but likely have a built-in base of readers. So it's hard to compare my book to books published by major publishers in general. There are definitely better writers and books out there, but overall, I'm proud of the book I wrote, and am grateful to my publisher for making the product (especially the hardcover edition) look very professional.
I have not thought about offering a large-print edition of my book. That's a great idea that I will definitely consider!

Mark

4/30/2021 10:36:25 am

While a major publisher probably has several editors to go over a manuscript with a fine-tooth comb the books seldom come out error free. I find spelling errors in those books also.
Fame has its followers and hangers-on that make for lots of sales no question about that.
You should be proud of your book. I bet the hardcover is beautiful.
There are so many different ways to tell a story.
New question.
Have you thought about using Kickstarter or other crowd-funding platforms to pay for publishing or production of books or special editions? Here is one example, granted, it is extreme because the author has a large number of fans: https://kriswrites.com/2020/07/22/business-musings-the-kickstarted-game-changer-part-two/ Copy and paste time again.

Samuel Moore-Sobel link

4/30/2021 10:37:15 am

Thank you!

I have not thought about using kickstarter - that is an interesting idea! Finding the capital to finance a book project can be a challenge. Personally, I approached it similarly to how I guess others would approach starting their own business. I have a mind for business and was excited to use the principles I've learned in my day job to my work as an author. So far, I've had some success; and, I'm hopeful that as the pandemic lifts there will be more opportunities for in-person book events.

Mark

4/30/2021 10:42:28 am

You are welcome, part of my mission is to spread information that is useful for authors.
Crowdfunding is a great idea, and a lot of people are already accustomed to it. I have backed a couple of things just to learn more about it.
New questions.
For reading fun or pleasure, what is your favorite genre?
Have you thought about trying to get your book into libraries? Here is a copy-and-paste link with more information: https://www.thecreativepenn.com/2019/06/12/book-marketing-how-to-get-your-book-into-libraries

Samuel Moore-Sobel link

4/30/2021 01:03:07 pm

My favorite genre for reading pleasure is definitely non-fiction. I love reading any kind of non-fiction, especially American history. I've always been fascinated by history.
I have just started thinking about getting my book into libraries. I think it would be a great way to share my story with more readers!

Mark

4/30/2021 01:26:54 pm

I love history also. Lately, I have been reading more historical fiction rather than non-fiction. They are both good.
Many authors want to get their book into libraries, a few go to the extreme of just slipping a copy or two onto a library shelf. I don't recommend that. I do know authors who add their book to a tiny library whenever they come across one. I have heard of others leaving them on public transportation and other public spaces.
I am proofreading a book right now about early American history, from the beginning of the emigration from Europe to the American Revolution. It is quite interesting, the stories of more than 300 people. Most of the stories are quite short because the public and private records are scarce.
New questions.
Do you have a favorite book by another author or just favorite authors?
Did you have a favorite book as a child?

Samuel Moore-Sobel link

4/30/2021 03:18:35 pm

I recently read a book written by a fellow burn survivor called "Flashback Girl." The author, Dr. Lise Deguire, has an amazing story. I really resonated with much of what she wrote, and it is definitely one of my all-time favorite books.
When I was teenager, my favorite book was "The Color of Water" by James McBride. I loved the way he weaved his story (and that of his mother's) together into such a relatable and well-written narrative. It remains one of the most impactful books that I have ever read.

Mark

4/30/2021 04:12:27 pm

Those sound like good books. The Color of Water is an interesting title. Water has little to no color of its own, it allows the color of things in it or around it to pass through.
New questions.
Do you ever read a book more than once? If so, which one?
Does writing have a spiritual or healing component for you, does it energize you or make you feel tired at the end of a good writing session?

Samuel Moore-Sobel link

4/30/2021 08:02:47 pm

I don't often re-read books, but I do if I find the book to be especially impactful. The Color of Water is definitely a book I've read more than once. I also regularly read through the Bible.
Writing does have a healing component for me. Writing my book was one of the most cathartic experiences of my life. Telling my story in my own voice was incredibly healing. At the same time, I also found it exhausting. Writing about some of the most painful experiences of my life brought up a lot of bad memories. In the end, I'm glad that I kept writing, even when it wasn't easy to keep going. I feel that publishing the book was an important milestone along my journey to both physical and emotional healing.

Mark

5/1/2021 06:59:18 am

Other than the Bible, I haven't re-read a book in a long time. My TBR list is quite long.
Many authors report a healing or energized feeling when writing, some don't. In your case it's not surprising that you were impacted. It sounds like the writing experience was a need.
The difference between a need and a want is that an unfulfilled need will result in damage or the lack of healing for a person.
New questions.
Why is it important for writers to tap into the emotions of the characters?
How does a writer ensure the reader will connect with the characters?

Samuel Moore-Sobel link

5/1/2021 11:27:52 am

I think it's imperative for a writer to tap into the emotions of each character included in a book because that is what makes them most relatable. We all experience emotions. We all know what it's like to be angry, sad, hurt, excited, joyful, etc. Showcasing the emotions of the characters is essential to capturing an accurate reflection of the human experience.
I think this ties into your second question. A writer can ensure the reader will connect with the characters only through authenticity. Even in writing fiction, it's important to have relatable characters that readers readily recognize as having similar thoughts and feelings to themselves. In memoir writing, one has to write authentically. You must be honest in your account, and even highlight your own failings. This will ensure readers can relate to you or the characters featured in your work.

Mark

5/1/2021 12:12:02 pm

Each and every one of us are creatures built on emotions. We have our rational, thinking brains, we also have our emotional, reacting brains. Some call it a lizard brain, when activated it actually short circuits the rational brain sometimes to react faster to a perceived threat.
I used the word candid in describing your book, you are very honest about your feelings in the book. That makes a big difference in the authenticity.
Even if a fiction writer is describing orcs, dragons or fairies, they all have desires and frustrations. A good writer will make them relatable.
New questions.
Have you ever done NaNoWriMo, National Novel Writing Month, held annually in November?
If you have, what kind of preparation did you do before NaNoWriMo started?

Samuel Moore-Sobel link

5/1/2021 02:18:43 pm

Thank you!

I have never participated in NaNoWriMo, but it sounds interesting! I'll have to check it out to learn more about participation requirements.

Mark

5/1/2021 03:04:35 pm

NaNoWriMo is very simple. the goal is to write 50,000 words of a first draft during the 30 days of November. If you do that you are a winner and you can use the winner banners on your website and such. That works out to less than 2,000 words a day.
The people known as high-level planners or plotters may spend weeks doing research and writing an outline for the book. Many of them join virtual groups on Twitter or other social media for mutual fun and support.
I hope you enjoy it.
New questions.
Are you an under-writer or an over-writer? When the first draft is done, do you need to add more to flesh it out or do you have to cut material because there is too much?

Samuel Moore-Sobel link

5/1/2021 04:40:58 pm

Sounds interesting - I'll have to try it out!

I am definitely an over-writer. My original book manuscript was over 120,000 words! I had to whittle it down bit by bit. At first, it felt like cutting off an appendage. As time went on, however, it got easier to trim down my work. My wife is a wonderful editor, and she helped me edit the manuscript. If not for her, my book would definitely have a lot more words!

Mark

5/1/2021 05:00:12 pm

That is the job of a good editor, to bring a book to its best length.
Last year, I proofed a full-length book for an author. It appeared a few months later in a collection of short stories that I promoted for the author. The story was still quite good, but the difference was rather stark.
I can understand how it might feel like you were under the surgeon's knife, with no anesthetic. You learned how much better your book became. Some authors really struggle and argue with their editor over all of the cuts.
New questions.
What type of material is that most often, action, description or dialogue?
When working through the excess writing, are you talking about sentences, paragraphs or a chapter that didn't survive the final cut?

Samuel Moore-Sobel link

5/1/2021 06:19:18 pm

I think for me, I definitely struggle with adding too much detail. I'll typically include more description than necessary. I always want to be as transparent as possible, and feel that the more details that are included, the more likely it will be that the reader will understand what it is that I am trying to say. Like most writers, I simply want to be known. In writing my book, I wanted readers to understand the complexity of my experience. I felt that the more details I included, the more likely it would be that people would be able to grasp the depth of my experience. I came to learn that oftentimes a writer can say less with more. It's a lesson that I'm still in the process of learning.
I would say all three. There were definitely chapters that did not make it into the book, largely due to space constraints. For the most part, I've been able to turn the cut material from my book into columns or guest blog pieces, so at least those cut chapters ended up seeing the light of day. My wife also encouraged me to cut down on the use of so many adjectives and other descriptive language throughout the book, which definitely helped the narrative flow much better.

Mark

5/1/2021 07:21:15 pm

Many authors, especially new authors struggle with too much description. Writers seem to feel eloquent with lots of adjectives and unusual words from a thesaurus. But most readers just want to read and don't want to slow down to understand what the writer is trying to say.
Your experience was very complex and it makes sense to me that you sought full transparency before your readers. Your editor wife is right, more can be said with less.
When I returned a commented manuscript to the writer, I had recommended commas after every adjective except for the one closest to the noun. He wrote back thanking me for exposing that for him, he removed most of the excess adjectives and needed far fewer commas. He wrote an action/thriller.
New questions.
What is your writing routine when you sit down to write?
Do you write in a straight line or do you write whatever the muse provides for you at a given moment?

Samuel Moore-Sobel link

5/1/2021 08:35:42 pm

As of late, my routine has been to write whenever I have a few moments to spare. I try to carve out time specifically to write in the afternoon/evening timeframe. I find I write better later in the day. I usually don't have to provide much structure to my writing sessions. Thankfully, I typically don't encounter writer's block when I sit down to write. In my experience, I have mostly found that the words flow pretty easily whenever I find myself in front of my laptop.
In writing my column for example, I will attempt to write in a straight line as much as possible (although I oftentimes end up having to cut words in order to meet my editor's word count of around 700 words). There are times when I write whatever is on my mind, but I try my best to stay on point when writing a guest blog post or my column in order to save time.

Mark

5/2/2021 07:27:12 am

Many writers seek small blocks of time to write, mostly because that is all they can find. When you have family obligations and work that's as good as it gets usually.
You are blessed being able to connect with your muse so easily. Many writers struggle with that. I interviewed one writer who told me her muse shows up regularly at 2:30 am. She keeps a pad and pen on her nightstand at the ready. Another author moaned that her muse would show up in the midst of her shower and she could not remember everything by the time she scurried out of the shower. I recommended she buy a waterproof pad of paper and a Space pen.
Writing in a straight line works well for short articles. Many writers follow a straight line when writing novel length material. Many of those authors experience writer's block also at one point or another. Here is another copy-and-paste link for a different angle on this idea: http://www.wordrefiner.com/guest-blogs/non-linear-writing You can also search "Rick Hall" in the box below.
New questions.
Which is more important to a story pace or flow? How do you control it?
Now that your book is published, is there anything about it you would like to change?

Samuel Moore-Sobel link

5/2/2021 09:42:12 am

I would say flow is more important than pace. Flow helps the reader follow along better with what you are trying to say. You control the flow of a narrative by cutting out extraneous words and details. Doing this requires a disciplined approach, but it is definitely worth it.
I just recently read through my book in recording my audiobook. In hindsight, there are definitely things I would change. I think I have a deeper understanding of certain elements of my story after having the opportunity over the last several months to share my story with others. I think the book captures where I was at a certain point in time. I expect that throughout my life, my perspective might continue to shift as I reach different stages of life. Overall, though, I am really happy with the book. I'm proud of the work I published, and am grateful to have a platform to share my story with the world.

Mark

5/2/2021 10:04:23 am

The author controls both pace and flow. One affects the other also.
When I am reading I am always conscious of the flow. Whenever the flow is interrupted by a spelling error or missing word I feel like I hit a speedbump that I didn't see coming. I am jolted out of the flow of the story quite vigorously.
Your increased understanding makes a lot of sense. You have more experience in life and more wisdom. An annual or semiannual review of your state of being might be useful for other burn victims.
New questions.
What is the one thing you hope readers will remember from your book?
What else are you writing these days? Are you writing anything for yourself or only for readers?

Samuel Moore-Sobel link

5/2/2021 01:52:49 pm

I hope that after reading my book people remember that healing is a journey. It took me almost a decade to reach what I would consider to be a place of acceptance. I finally came to accept my scars, both inside and out. Yet it took time. It also required a lot of hard work. It wasn't easy, but I'm so grateful I did the necessary work to reach a place of healing. I hope readers are left with a sense of hope after reading my book, and that they are encouraged to face their own scars, both inside and out.
These days, I still write my monthly column for a local newspaper. I do contribute guest blog posts from time to time, and try my best to keep up with my journal (which I have admittedly been failing to do as of late). I derive such joy from writing, and it's something I will always do for as long as I am here on this earth.

Mark

5/2/2021 02:49:32 pm

Excellent point! Healing is a process rather than a destination. We all have brokenness in this life, none are exempt. Some are better at hiding that brokenness than others.
Many tout the benefits of journaling. I have tried it more than once and have not kept it up. I find the blank page scares me.
New questions.
Do you have a classical author or poet, you admire?
What popular modern authors have influenced you?

Samuel Moore-Sobel link

5/2/2021 05:25:33 pm

I've always admired Homer. I remember reading the Iliad and the Odyssey in middle school, and being swept up by those epic poems. I'm grateful to have had an education where I was lucky enough to be introduced to a wide variety of classical authors and works.
I was particularly impacted by Tara Westover's memoir. Her story is incredible. I was struck by how much she overcame, and the lengths she went to in order to pursue an education, despite all of the obstacles she faced. Hers is a deeply impactful and inspiring story.

Mark

5/2/2021 06:02:18 pm

I recall that I read those in middle school also, but It was not nearly as intense for me. Perhaps it was because I was reading the Lord Of The Rings and The Hobbit. I read them three times before graduating from high school.
New questions.
Are there any authors that influenced you to become a writer?
If you could meet your favorite author, what would you ask them?

Samuel Moore-Sobel link

5/2/2021 07:03:46 pm

I would say that James McBride definitely influenced me to become an author. Reading through "The Color of Water" taught me the power of telling our stories. As did Bob Timberg. Bob was a fellow burn survivor. He suffered third-degree burns to his body as a Marine in the Vietnam War. Hearing his story helped give me the strength to tell my own.
I have met both James McBride and Bob Timberg (sadly, Timberg passed away just a few years ago). With McBride, I wanted to know more about his life after the publication of "The Color of Water." When I met him, his mother had recently passed away. Additionally, he had gone through a heart-wrenching divorce, and it was easy to see that all of this was still weighing on him. However, his zest for life was evident, as was his "child-like wonder," which in his own words means being excited about and/or grateful for even the simplest of things.

With Timberg, I wanted to share my story with him, and hear more about how he reached a place of healing. I wanted to meet someone who understood what it was like to be burned. Bob Timberg was the first burn survivor I ever met. He signed his book for me and wrote, "To Samuel - who knows about comebacks." It's one of the most treasured books in my collection.

Mark

5/2/2021 07:49:09 pm

A positive attitude and perspective are worth so much. At times, our lives can depend on it. Without a positive outlook, it is very easy to give up. The pain can swallow us whole, it seems.
We all need someone we can follow at different stages of our life, then in turn, we can show someone else the way. Those two men did that for you.
That book is certainly a treasured keepsake.
New questions.
What software do you use to write and publish your books, and why do you use those?
How did you keep track of all the characters and events in your book?

Samuel Moore-Sobel link

5/2/2021 09:39:53 pm

I actually wrote my entire book in a Word document. My publisher converted my manuscript into a PDF. I would mark up the PDF by leaving comments in the sections that needed to be corrected or changed. I would send it back to my publisher, and they would make the changes and then send me the most current version of my manuscript for review. This process continued throughout the editing process.

Looking back, I should have written an outline. But instead, I kept track of all the characters and events in my book in my head. I have a good memory, and was able to rely on that throughout the process. But I think it would have been much easier if I had created an outline beforehand.

Mark

5/3/2021 08:02:58 am

So many writers use MS Word. With a large, business-user base many use it at home. I use it for my proofreading. The commenting feature in Word is a lot like PDF.
I think outlining is a valuable tool. Authors who use outlining are called plotters, those that don't are known as pantsers or pansters because they write by the seat of their pants. Then are the hybrid pantsers who outline a chapter after they write it.
Quite a few plotters use a program called Scrivener for their writing, it has amazing outlining tools. It also is compatible with MS Word.
New questions.
Do you have defined space for writing at home, or are you a coffee-shop writer, if we weren’t dealing with the covid thing?
Do you listen to music or have the TV on when writing at home, or do you need quiet?

Samuel Moore-Sobel link

5/3/2021 09:02:44 am

I usually write in my home office. I've never been able to focus enough to write in a coffee shop. I much prefer being able to write in my own home at my desk.
It depends. If I listen to music while writing, I only listen to classical music. I cannot focus with any other type of music playing in the background. Sometimes, I just need quiet. It really depends on my mood, and how much concentration I need in the moment to write.

Mark

5/3/2021 02:53:36 pm

I am with you on this. I much prefer to write at home. I can listen to music or have the TV on, my wife is usually watching, when I am proofreading. It gives me something to focus against. However, I don't turn it on myself, only my wife. Even when I am just reading and not proofreading.
Last questions.
Of the five senses which is the easiest to write and which is the hardest?
Have you ever participated in theater in some way, acted, behind the scenes or written a play?

Samuel Moore-Sobel link

5/3/2021 04:07:19 pm

Of the five senses, I would say that sight is probably the easiest to write. It's much easier to describe what someone looks like and to detail attributes involving appearance. I've read before that taste is the hardest of the five senses to write about, and I would agree. It's hard to describe how something tastes in a way for the reader to grasp (at least in my opinion).
When I was in middle school, I played the lead role in "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat." It was an amazing experience. I nearly lost my voice having to rehearse all of those songs!

Mark

5/3/2021 05:28:00 pm

Most authors agree with you about the senses. Some authors work well-known food into a story to good effect sometimes. There is a sub-genre of cozy mysteries that feature food in the story and include a recipe or three at the end.
I loved a lot of the music from that production. It is an enduring story for the ages.
Samuel, I have really enjoyed our conversation these last few days. You have been a fabulous guest on the wordrefiner channel.
I have another promotion starting tomorrow. So I must bring this interview to a close.
I hope you keep writing, I enjoyed your book voice a lot and your story is very inspiring.

Samuel Moore-Sobel link

5/3/2021 07:02:57 pm

Thanks so much! Same here. It's been a pleasure corresponding with you over the last few days. Thank you so much for interviewing me and for promoting my book! Wishing you all the best.

Can You See My Scars? By Samuel Moore-Sobel

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