An Exclusive Interview with David Akseizer

Assistant Publisher Nadine Cauthen sat with author David Akseizer to discuss a few questions about the making of The Legend of Pearl Cave.

NC: When did you first decide you wanted to become a published author?

DA: Back in high school when dreaming big was all I did. My friends and I were gathered around a circular kitchen table playing cards on a Friday night. We bet with cookies of course, not real money. That’s the moment I first shared the idea of one day writing an underwater adventure novel. Everyone laughed at me, mostly because that’s what guys do, we poke fun at one another. I tried not to take it personally. Besides, I don’t think my buddies were laughing at the idea behind the novel. I think they doubted the possibility that one day I’d become an actual writer. And here I am, a published author who’s still not afraid of dreaming big.

NC: Can you name at least one reason why you love to write?

DA: I’m a storyteller by nature. And writing is just another way I’m able to share great stories with those who enjoy a good read.

NC: What are your ambitions for your writing career?

DA: I’ve spent the last 11 years working in the medical field treating cancer patients. On a daily basis, I’m able to make patients smile and laugh. My goal with writing is very much the same; I hope to make readers smile and laugh, providing them the chance to escape reality whenever they feel as if they need to get away from life’s many challenges.

NC: How do you think you’ve evolved creatively since the release of the The Legend of Pearl Cave?

DA: Creativity has become a mindset. Where I used to have to try and let my imagination run wild, now it just goes on its own, and does so with confidence.

NC: What was it like to work with a publisher and a professional team of editors?

DA: During the publishing process, I did a lot of proofreading, editing, more proofreading and even more editing. The staff at Figlo Press taught me to fine tune my technical skills, so I could focus more on the storyline of my next book. Having direct access to an incredibly talented group of professionals has elevated my writing to a level I never even knew was possible.

NC: What are your thoughts on good/bad reviews?

DA: Good reviews attract attention and so do bad reviews. I don’t expect everyone to like The Legend of Pearl Cave, I expect them to love it. But seriously, win or lose, I took a chance and everyone deserves to give themselves an opportunity to succeed.

NC: How did it feel to hold the first printed copy of The Legend of Pearl Cave?

DA: Though I’ve never give birth myself, on account of being a man and all, I’d have to say the feeling was probably similar to having a baby. You gain weight, lose sleep and at times have mood swings. Every moment leading up to the book release is uncomfortable, nerve racking and painful. But when you finally hold the book in your hands, it’s the greatest feeling ever.

NC: You recently had your first book signing. Can you share your experience and how it made you feel?

DA: I was fortunate to participate in Tiger Schulmann’s annual Bully Shield event in Paramus, New Jersey. When I first arrived, the children surrounded me from every direction. They naturally gravitated toward the wonderful table setup consisting of freshly printed books and an iPad looping a trailer for The Legend of Pearl Cave. Behind me stood a giant poster of the novel with an oversized picture of my face. With a black sharpie, I began autographing copies of my book, writing the catch phrase “Be Brave” above my signature. I never thought anyone would want my autograph, but they did, and it felt incredible, yet humbling. Afterwards, I had a chance to speak to all the kids. There were so many of them, all eyes on me and I was a little bit nervous to say the least. Though it’s all a blur, I managed to tell them that confidence, bravery and courage can help them overcome any challenge they might face in life. It was a great day to be a writer, a great day indeed!

NC: You mentioned signing the words “Be Brave.” What does being brave mean to you?

DA: “Be Brave” is my mantra. I want everyone to realize that they possess heroic qualities. We all have the potential to achieve the impossible, if we’re willing to believe in ourselves. That’s what being brave is all about: standing up for yourself and what you believe in. And so, I’ve made it my mission to start a campaign that inspires all those I encounter to be brave. Don’t be afraid to push the limits and reach for the stars. If you learn to be brave, you can make anything happen that you set your mind to.

NC: In short, what’s the overall message of The Legend of Pearl Cave?

DA: Listen to those around you, believe in yourself, unleash the hero within and always remember to be brave.