In this interview, A.J. discusses writing through his own grief with his new YA novel, Golden Boy, the differences between the film business and publishing, and more.
What prompted you to write this book?
That’s a bit of a sad story. I was diagnosed with a seizure disorder several years ago (That’s not the sad part. I’m just fine.), and I require a service animal. Enter Chip, the smartest, most faithful, most adorable golden retriever you’ve ever met. My constant companion, best friend, confidante, and caretaker for almost 10 years. He was what people now call my “soul dog” or “heart dog.”
Chip got a very aggressive type of cancer. So aggressive that by the time symptoms showed, it was too late. He was literally diagnosed one day and gone the next. It was that sudden.
It ripped my heart out. My best friend was gone. So, I just started writing and writing. All the grief, but more than that, all the love and the joy that Chip gave me over the years came pouring out. When it was all done and I came up for air, I realized that I had written the story that I needed myself.
How long did it take to go from the idea to publication? And did the idea change during the process?
I don’t know for sure that Golden Boy had the longest gestation period in history, but I’d be willing to bet it’s close. I got the idea probably 30 years ago when I was playing fetch with my dog. At least, I thought I was playing fetch. He was playing keep away. After about an hour of chasing him zooming all over the place, I thought to myself, if that dog were human, he’d be an incredible running back.
And the idea hit me. A dog becomes a human football hero.
I’ve been a screenwriter my whole life, so I made various attempts over the years, mostly wacky slapstick adult comedies. Golden Boy is my first novel. It’s still a comedy and has those big, silly moments, but it’s grounded in character and very sweet. There are a couple of tear-jerker scenes, too. I give a lot of credit to my editor for helping bring all of that out.
