Interview with Kerry Crowley

Author of Rocekt Farts, Zombie Parts: The Continuing Adventures of Mucus Phlegmball (The Adventures of Mucus Phlegmall Book 2)

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

I grew up in Southeastern Wisconsin and still live in that area, just a bit west of where I was born.

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

I didn’t move far, but after I married and had children, we wanted to be an area that had a school district with an excellent reputation.

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

My boys were young and I saw a need for books that catered to their sense of humor, but still had an in-depth story line to challenge their reading abilities.

How would you describe your books to first time readers?

My three book series is centered around an 11-year old superhero, Mucus Phlegmball, who can blow radioactive snot out of his nose and mouth. As the series progresses, other characters also develop super powers, such as radioactive rocket farts and exploding ear wax.

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

Firstly, middle grade boys who find bodily functions humorous. Beyond that, I think my books will appeal to young people who are struggling with fitting in, navigating friendships and dealing with bullying.

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

The length of time it takes to realistically complete the process was much longer than I anticipated. Thankfully, that seemed to get a bit easier as I progressed with the series.

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

Don’t wait to get serious about writing. Even though I discovered a love for it in 7th grade, I put it on the back burner for far too many years.

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

As many as possible! I especially want to foster a love of books in reluctant readers who struggle to find topics of interest to them.

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

Marketing. I am an introvert and struggle to put myself out there. I know kids will enjoy my books, I just don’t know the best way to get them into their hands.

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

In retrospect, the writing now feels like it was the easy part.

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

Marketing.

When do you think you will write your next book?

I am currently seeking a publisher for a contemporary Christian YA novel and writing another in the same genre.

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

I am traditionally published with MuseItUp Publishing, a small Canadian press.