Hamilton, tell us a bit about yourself:
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I was born and raised in Illinois and I currently live in Chicago. I have traveled many parts of the world, extensively and still make the occasional trip abroad. I’m married to my high school sweetheart, coming up to 33 years. I have two beautiful daughters, two cats and a little Westie.
Why did you pick to write books for Middle Grade readers?
I didn’t really pick Middle Grade. I just happen to write Middle Grade. It was and is important not to write anything I would feel uncomfortable having my mom or daughters read.
What types of books do you like to read?
I like thrillers, biographies, non-fiction…I’m pretty eclectic, and you never know what may grab my attention.
When you are not writing, what do you like to do?
When I’m not writing, I love to cook. I’m a bit of a foodie. Living in Chicago, I get to sample some of the best cooking in the world. I also love classic sports cars and have one that gives me hours of enjoyment. I also go to as many 70’s rock concerts as possible.
Tell us about Gold Fever and how the story came to be.
Here's a peek at Gold Fever:
It’s the dog days of summer and Benny Churchill and Bug Beetle are back and still running! The Apple Grove Gang has caught gold fever, and they find that it’s too hard to bear. When they try locate the cure, things don't go as expected and not everything pans out. Only an earth shaking experience will lead them to the depths necessary to cure Gold Fever.
Have you written other books? If so, tell us a bit about them.
Currently, I have three books published. No Exit is the first in the Apple Grove Gang series and Amazing Journey is #3 in the series. No Exit introduces Bug Beetle, Benny Churchill, Moe Harris and Cindy Carter to my readers. They are talented kids who are quick to get behind a noble cause. Amazing Journey is a fun story about time travel and kids making a difference.
What’s next for your writing? Are you working on a new story?
Like most authors, I am always looking for inspiration for the next book. Currently, I am in the process of finishing Egg Roll Ralley, book #4 in the Apple Grove Gang series.
What advice do you have for other authors?
Just know that writing is a full time job, even if it isn’t your full time job. A good story just isn’t enough. You have to work hard to market your product.
Where can readers find you and your books?
My books are available on line, just about everywhere. I have links to several sites on my website: http://www.hamiltoncburger.com. Of course, they are on Amazon: http://amzn.to/15jG5vD.
Anything else you want readers to know?
I’d like readers to know that the first book in the series No Exit is always free! Be sure to check it out.
Here's the link for No Exit on Amazon: www.amazon.com/EXIT-Apple-Grove-Gang-ebook/dp/B0088GV98A
A great interview with Hamilton. I love that Middle Grade sort of chose you, and not the other way around. I feel the same way. The Apple Grove Gang series sounds great so thanks Cheryl for brining it our attention, and for linking it in to the Kid Lit Blog Hop. Cheers Julie Grasso
ReplyDeleteThanks for stopping by, Julie. Cheers to you for also hosting the Kid Lit Blog Hop.
DeleteGreat interview - I've never heard of the gang, but it sounds just like a book I would've read as a young reader. I'll have to check these out! Found you via Kid Lit Blog Hop
ReplyDeleteThanks for taking the time to stop by Brittany.
DeleteCheryl, You have an awesome site. Thank you so much for the opportunity to tell readers what HcB is all about!
ReplyDeleteJulie, Brittany...Great folk like you make writing worth while. My goal since I started writing, has been to bring a smile to the reader. I hope if you get a chance to read about "the Gang", I achieve that goal.
All the best,
HcB
Thank you, Hamilton, for sharing your books with my readers.
DeleteI'm so glad you decided to feature this author and his books. I nabbed myself a copy of the first book and I can't wait to check it out. I love the nostalgic feel of the book covers! Thanks for linking this into the Kid Lit Blog Hop and for hosting with us! :)
ReplyDeleteThanks for stopping by Renee. Didn't think about the book covers being nostalgic, but you're right.
DeleteRenee,thanks for the kind words. I do my best to take the reader back to the days of my youth...a much more simple time where imagination was our video game.
DeleteInteresting interview. I love the rafting picture. This series sounds like a lot of fun. I admire anyone who can instantly think up a story to tell on a road trip - then remember it well enough to write it down many years later is quite a feat.
ReplyDeleteCheryl - I thought I was following you but your site said no. I am now.
Thanks for stopping by and for following me, Sue.
DeleteThe picture was from a recent vacation on the Arkansas River. As for instantly thinking up a story...there needs to be a certain amount of bologna consummed before we leave home! When I wasn't telling the girls stories, I was "flying" our mini-van as Capt. Jack Flack! Complete with headphone, microphone and wife...er, flight attendant serving in flight snacks!
DeleteGreat interview. I went to school in North Chicago for a few years. Cold but I really enjoyed it. Thanks for sharing your free book. =)Thanks for linking to the KidLit Blog Hop.
ReplyDeleteCrystal, Thanks for stopping by.
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