Interview with John Paitakes,Ph.D.

Author of 50 Years Working in Criminal Justice

Where are you from originally and where do you reside now?

New Brunswick, NJ;Now reside in Raritan, NJ 08869

If you currently reside somewhere besides where you were born, what’s the story that lead from there to here?

Once I began working for the Somerset County Court system in Somerville, NJ I decided to move closer to work.

What made you decide to write and publish your first book?

When I hit the milestone of working in the criminal justice area for 50 years I felt the strong desire to summarize my careers and share that information with those who may consider working in that career. I also wanted to clarify some misconceptions the general public may have about that field.

How would you describe your books to first time readers?

This is a great read for students contemplating working in criminal justice. I describe how I got into the field and why I found it interesting and helping in shaping people’s lives. I use my successes in this field to provide valuable tips on how they may also use them to assist in their career development in this most interesting field.

Who do you feel is most likely to connect with the topics you write about?

Those persons who are aspiring to learn more about this most interesting and challenging career. It also sites examples of the more than 100 career opportunities available to the interested personnel.

What unexpected or surprising thing did you learn during the process of writing and publishing?

it is not an easy process to conceptualize 50 years working in a particular discipline. Finding the appropriate publisher and proof readers is an important task. Having relevant and informed persons reviewing your writings is also very important.

If you could, what advice would you give to your past self before embarking on this journey?

Start early on in your career to keep accurate and complete notes on significant issues as your career progresses. Begin writing chapters in draft form early on and save them during your career; that makes it somewhat easier when the time comes to begin the formal process of writing the book.

How many people would you ideally like to reach with your books?

I have no specific number; as wide a population as time permits. I feel strongly that the 2 biggest things-issues facing this country are Economy & Crime. Anything I can do to further educate people about this most important issue I feel is very important.

What has been the biggest challenge and frustration during the process to date?

The constant changes in the writing that are recommended from different reviewers. As the author we generally tend to think we have it “all right” but only to find out that persons from other areas offer a different and valuable perspective.

What’s your biggest strengths when it comes to book a) writing, b) publishing and c) marketing?

I feel Marketing is the area I am most comfortable with. I enjoy talking to people from various backgrounds about the area I have worked in and continue to work in for more than 50 years.

What’s your biggest weakness when it comes to book a) writing, b) publishing and c) marketing?

The actual writing your thoughts in a logical and meaningful way so that all reading it will clearly understand your perspective of the career.

When do you think you will write your next book?

I do not have a specific time frame although I would like to start fairly soon as I have some thoughts on the next area in criminal justice to share with readers.

Are you self published or did you use a hybrid publisher, or a traditional publisher?

I used a self-publishing company as I wanted to do it ” my way”.