Local Author Keeps Dad's Spirit Alive Through Books

Dunedin Patch recently caught up with local author Brian James for an email Q&A about his life and his book "Headstone," a "part truth and part fiction" story about his nontraditional relationship with his late father.

James has also published a sequel, "Fortune," and is working on the third book in the trilogy, "Chase," and was slated to be interviewed on National Public Radio this week about his works.

Here's what he had to say:

Name: Brian James, 66 (retired)

Lives in: Cape Cod for six months, and six months as a winter snowbird in Dunedin.

What inspires him? "The original inspiration was just to create notes for my kids, who were too young to remember much about their grandfather and his antics.  Due to his lifestyle, he passed away much too early. By writing down these well-varnished memories, the grandchildren got know their grandfather through the pages of the book. Writing 'Headstone' was very cathartic and brought me a sense of closure in regards to his death, which was well over a quarter of a century ago.  Reading of the book, subsequent discussions and the overall marketing of the book have all helped to keep the spirit of the book's main character Junior (my father, my boy's crazy grandfather) present."

What brought him to Dunedin, and what does he love about living here? "During the first few years of his retirement, author Brian James would rent a home in Florida every winter, to escape the harsh New England winters.  After much travel throughout the Gulf Coast region, he and his wife discovered delightful Dunedin.  They decided to purchase a condo and make it their winter residence.  The walkability, the friendly downtown atmosphere, the variety of entertainment experiences available and of course, the climate, all help to make Dunedin his retirement paradise."

What is the most meaningful personal insight or discovery made during the writing process of this book? "During the writing process, I was able to revisit my feelings for my father. Though he was no angel, he always made me feel special. He may not have always given me good example, but he usually gave me darn good advice.  The main insight I gleamed was, that with all his faults, I love him still. Another discovery I made while writing 'Headstone' was that story/memoir writing groups, like the ones available throughout Pinellas County, are tremendously valuable, because they allow retirees, who are looking for a new challenges, to foster both new skills and new friendships."

Where can readers find the book and contact the author? The book is available in hardcover, soft cover and e-book versions via BarnesandNoble.com, Amazon.com and Xlibris.com.  It is also available for checkout to anyone in the county via the Pinellas Public Library Cooperative — www.pplc.us. 

"Brian James is currently lining up book events for the upcoming spring season.  Keep your eyes open for " Headstone " and also for the soon to be released sequel " Fortune." The "Headstone" Facebook page contains a variety of additional information, reviews, fans comments, pictures of past events, schedules of upcoming events and many current photos as well as vintage photos of the main character Junior."