A Little Conversation with...Adam Iler

I met Adam when I started working at Blue Chip Casino and Spa, in Michighan City, Indiana (Free Plug!). Someone told me he'd published a children's book and I approched him to see about guidlines for submitting a manuscript. I never got back to him about that, since I rarely saw him.
When I started compiling a list of people to interview, I remembered Adam and asked him if I could interview him. He graciously gave me some time to answer a few questions about his book, Squealer's Adventures. Here's what he said...

1) How long have you been writing?

Writing is pretty new for me. I was always on the illustration side of things. I figured with all the techniques that I've learned over the years with my art, I could add details towards my characters and expand and enrich my work by writing the stories as well as drawing them.

2) What drove you to write Children's fiction?

I love how you can come up with off the wall situations and characters, and nobody will question you as long as you make it flow with the story. I've always liked to look at and draw cartoons, so to write a kids book was a no-brainer. As an adult, I still watch and read cartoons and comic strips. I went with fiction because my story wasn't ordinary, it didn't have everyday scenarios or story plots.

3) Squealer's Adventures is your first book. Can you tell us a little bit about it?

Squealer's Adventures is a story about a space pig/spy  named Squealer, that goes on these wacky jobs for his boss. Squealer rides around on a scooter from place to place. He's got a special  backpack that gives him different objects to help him out. The head villain in this story is a robot named Roller that wants to take over the planet so he builds robots to do his dirty work for him.

4) Do you have any other projects in the works?

I have a few stories waiting on the shelf to be put into print, I'm still trying to figure out all the ins and outs. I'm working on illustrations for other peoples' books. I hope to make another Squealer's Adventures story so I can keep the series going. I'll keep creating illustrations for people and collaborating on ideas with others if fit.

5) Any words of advice for anyone looking to begin a writing career?

I would say never give up on your dreams, that's a big one for me. Never stop learning whatever field your trying to break in to. Do your research, listen and watch whatever you can get your hands on. Keep true to yourself.

You can purchase Squealer's Adventures on Amazon.com