Author Spotlight: Chris Sandoval
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Name: Chris Sandoval 
Hometown: Denver, CO
Book: The Cookie Thief
Genre: Children’s
- Describe your book in 10 words or less. It’s a fable about friendship, forgiveness, and redemption.
- What made you want to write The Cookie Thief? Many years ago, I remember seeing a funny cartoon picture of a bird following a scent. I developed that idea into the story.
- How long did it take you to write your book? It took me a few months to write, edit and perfect.
- How do you choose the names of your characters? Charlie seemed to be a good fit for a cuddly, homely bear and Willie seemed a good fit for a mischievous little bird.
- What do you do when you have writer’s block? When I get writer’s block, a nice long walk helps me the best.
- What was your favorite chapter (or part) to write and why? My favorite part of the story is when Charlie decides to share the cookies and Willie happily accepts. What can I say–I like happy endings.
- If you were stuck on an island, which three of your book characters would you have with you and why? Willie, Anna, and Eustace Conway. Willie could fly around and be a good lookout, Anna and I would have fascinating discussions, and Eustace knows all about survival in the wilderness.
- Besides writing, what are your other interests? My other interests are hiking in the Rocky Mountains, reading, and watching good movies.
- Do you keep a journal? I keep a journal with story ideas and also a record of publishers I send stories to.
- How did you celebrate the publishing of The Cookie Thief? I like to celebrate by having a nice dinner with some close family and friends.
- If your book was made into a movie, who would play the main characters? If a movie was made, I think Steve Martin would be a good voice for Charlie and Danny DeVito would make a good voice for Willie.
- What did you enjoy most about working with Dorrance Publishing? I was involved in every step of the publishing process. Also, my contact person, Shaina, was very helpful, friendly, and prompt.
- Five favorite books of all time? A Christmas Carol, Mister God This is Anna, Bless Me Ultima, Tuesdays with Morrie, and just about anything by John Grisham.
- One sentence of advice for other writers? My advice to other authors would be three words from Winston Churchill: NEVER GIVE UP!
