Essays

Happiness Ruined Everything

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In these devotional essays, Michael Klein embraces joy–a subject not consciously available to him until, as an act of resistance and self-preservation during a time of political cruelty, he turned towards cherished writers, mentors, lovers past and present, beloved animals, thrilling musicians, memorable stagecraft, and the ragged, often funny edges of an unpredictable life spent by the sea. Michael Klein has spent his life guided by these great mentors in pursuit of the transformative power of art.

Writing on the Edge: A Borderland Reader

Read more about Writing on the Edge: A Borderland Reader

I’ve gotten to know the author over the years based on a shared appreciation of iconic writer Moritz Thomsen, whom Tom met in Ecuador. He accompanied me to the University of Arizona Library, which acquired his archives, including six boxes of materials on Thomsen that I used to research and write several articles. With Tom’s help, I’d write my anthology, Moritz Thomsen: The Greatest American Writer Nobody Knows About.

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Testimonials

I was advised by my publisher to take part in an interview with The Authors Show®. I was apprehensive about this as promotional interviews were new to me, however, The Authors Show and interviewers were excellent and extremely professional. I was initially dealing with Don McCauley, who made me feel at ease, and took me through interview step by step. The entire process was professional, helpful and aimed at maximizing the chances of success. I was also given advice on setting up a website. Danielle Hampson also helped a lot, with promotion, advertising and ongoing publicity. The Authors Show staff are professional, helpful, friendly and informed. I would highly recommend The Authors Show to all authors who want to promote their books. I will keep The Authors Show® in mind for future books!

Thomas Mark Johnston, author of "My Kingdom for a Horse.” United Kingdom

Every 86,400 moments of each day offer golden nuggets of opportunity. One such moment was when I listened to a webinar and the speaker mentioned The Authors Show®. I submitted my application for Hope Has a Cold Nose with fingers crossed I would have the privilege of being interviewed. I knew I had been handed a gift when my ears first heard about The Authors Show. I received a glimpse of what I would come to discover was a gift of immeasurable value when I received notification that I would be contacted shortly to set up an interview. From the first email exchange with a wonderful interviewer named Linda through the interview process itself to the post-interview marketing program I am now investing in, I have realized the golden nugget is actually a treasure chest of gold. My gratitude to Linda for facilitating a great interview and for her bonus tips in how to enhance my website. Prior to hitting “record”, Linda shared her intent to have the interview flow like two friends exchanging conversation. That is exactly how it felt. Linda facilitated a space to feel at ease and natural in sharing why a reader can benefit from Hope Has a Cold Nose. Thank you to Linda, Danielle, and The Authors Show team for all you do for authors and readers across the globe!

Christine Hassing, Author of “Hope Has a Cold Nose

Danielle and her team are an absolute pleasure to work with. Hugely professional, amazing interview skills and they know how to get the best out of each individual they talk with. The production and editing values are second to none, and the result is a high quality and invaluable piece of media coverage that can be amplified as part of a wider author marketing strategy.

Helen Lewis, Director - Literally Public Relations Ltd – United Kingdom

Many thanks to The Authors Show® team, and most specifically to Danielle Hampson and Linda Thompson for their excellent interviews, both in English and in French. Both had a great knowledge of the topic and their questions were incredibly interesting, providing great insight to my book. The promotional video is also very sleek. I highly recommend The Authors Show to any author seeking a clean interview and professional video to promote a book, either in English or in French. Thank you again The Authors Show!

Sylvie Beljanski, Author of "Winning the War on Cancer: the Epic Journey Toward a Natural Cure"

What can I say, my experience with Executive Producer Danielle Hampson and Host Don McCauley from The Authors Show® was nothing short of astounding! Their commitment to professionalism and integrity and the desire to promote the author and their book is to be commended. It was a fantastic experience from start to finish. I’ve had great feedback on my interview especially on how professional it was. It was a wonderful experience to showcase my book!

Monica E. Deller, Author of “Trauma to Triumph: If I can... You can too”

I want to say a HUGE THANK YOU to Linda for her excellent questions and professionalism throughout my experience on “The Authors Show“. She is amazing. Everyone I sent the link out to commented on what a skilled interviewer she is and I have some tough critics!
Thank you, Danielle, for providing this amazing platform for authors to summarize their hard work and then provide ways to help us promote our interviews digitally to so many other platforms. Your editor is also fantastic, as I do my own video and podcast editing and know how time consuming and challenging it can be.
As a result of this incredible experience, with Linda as my guide, I purchased the Gold24 plan and look forward to seeing the deliverables.

Pam Ostrowski, Author of It's Not That Simple: Helping Families Navigate the Alzheimer's Journey

I appreciate the professionalism of The Authors Show®’s entire production team. I work in media, and I’d like to think I’m a pretty good judge of good work, and theirs was excellent. My interview with host Linda Thompson is easily the best media experience I’ve ever had. Linda’s exuberance, energy, and interest allowed me to relax and simply tell my story. It felt more like a conversation between two old friends. Words cannot express my gratitude for this powerful and moving experience. Looking forward to doing it again soon with my new book.

Michael Gordon Bennett, Author of "7-10 Split: My Journey As America’s Whitest Black Kid"

Authors would rather be writing than promoting, which is why book marketing is such a nightmare for most of us. Except when we can have fun with it, which is exactly what happens when I work with The Authors Show. I’ve had three interviews and three wonderful experiences. The host, Linda Thompson, put me at ease at the start of every interview, and there are some good laughs throughout that make for a great time. The editing is top notch (I know, because I’ve caused some whopping bloopers), and I’m always confident in the final product. As a bonus, there are affordable marketing options you can add onto the free interview. I’m always pleased with my experience and would recommend The Authors Show to any author looking for a new way to share their books.

MK McClintock - McKenna Grey, Author of "Christmas in the Rockies"

Linda, thank you for doing such a brilliant job on the interview with me. Also, your editor was equally brilliant! I didn't actually expect to enjoy listening to the interview, but between the two of you, you produced something I sure like! Linda, thank you for doing such a brilliant job on the interview with me. Also, your editor was equally brilliant! I didn't actually expect to enjoy listening to the interview, but between the two of you, you produced something I sure like! Editing just MAKES those interviews!
Thank you, Danielle! The Authors Show is a fabulous thing you've created and maintained. I posted a compliment on the Facebook group Binders this morning.

Rosalie Maggio, Author of “Marie Marvingt, Fiancée of Danger”

I highly recommend The Authors Show®, for their professionalism, attention to detail, and fast turnaround. It was obvious from her questions that my interviewer, Linda Thompson, had spent quite a bit of time researching my book, so questions were specific to my book, genre and writing style. She knew the story, my background, asked a couple questions that no one else has to date, and put me at ease, demonstrating she is a professional, thoughtful interviewer. During our phone call and prior to the recorded portion, she gave me an idea of what to expect, tips, and what not to say so that the interview would be timeless, e.g. don't mention any publication dates. There is no obligation to purchase anything, so in and of itself they provide a valuable service to authors. I chose to purchase the audio and found the price incredibly reasonable for the time they spent to research, interview, and subsequently edit it into a very professional interview. It will be an excellent addition to my marketing plan. Thank you The Authors Show.

Katrina Shawver, Author of “Henry: A Polish Swimmer's True Story of Friendship from Auschwitz to America”

As guest on The Authors Show®, I can honestly say the interview by Don McCauley was a fulfilling experience, as the questions asked were reliant and to-the-point. No time was wasted with flim-flam questions. Any author who needs to get their message out to the public will find The Authors show one of the best platforms out there, if not indeed, the very best one. Danielle Hampson is the producer and director of the show and her expertise and knowledge of editing and producing an authentic show speaks volumes for itself, as all authentic works do. I recommend all writers to become a guest on the show and enjoy a truly remarkable experience.
Time is our most precious asset and spending time on The Authors Show is a wise way to spend time.

Michael Levy, Author of “Cutting Truths”, Philosopher, Lecturer (USA/UK)

I applied for an interview with The Authors Show® and I must say the staff I dealt was were superb, from Executive Producer Danielle helping me initially to get it set up, to show host Don who guided me through the interview. The entire process was professional, helpful and set up to help you succeed. I have never done an interview like this before, but it went so smooth I would do it again. I was nervous, but the host put me at ease and kept the pacing going. Thank you so much The Authors Show®!

Michael S. Wigington, Author of “The Mist Witch of Dreydark Forest”

I have been interviewed many times over the years that I have been writing, and The Authors Show® is among the best. Not only was the interview itself superior, but I was amazed at the preparation that gave the final production outstanding professionalism.
Thank you to all who made it possible.

Phyllis Staton Campbell, Author of “Where Sheep May Safely Graze”

Danielle, I have been fortunate to have been interviewed on many radio and television programs over several years. You and your staff are the most professional media organization that I have ever dealt with. Your organization’s attention to details before, during and after the interview was magnificent.
Don McCauley spared no element too small in communicating with me before the interview and the day of the interview in order to create the most impactful program possible. After the interview, his follow-up again added important facts to make the program successful.
Nancy Villella insured that I understood the opportunities to maximize the effectiveness of my interview and her follow-up was thoughtful and beneficial to me.
Your personal time Danielle explaining additional facets of book marketing, media and how The Authors Show focuses on benefiting authors, demonstrated expertise, commitment and compassion to each and every author you serve. I’m so pleased to have been interviewed for The Authors Show, and highly recommend other authors consider doing so with my strongest emphasis.

Richard V. Battle, Author of "Conquering Life’s Course"

Being a guest on The Authors Show® was such an enjoyable experience! I hadn’t been interviewed on air before, so I was a little nervous about it. However, from the first hello, Linda was so patient and made me feel completely at ease by giving me useful tips to ensure that I got the most out of the experience. She also very generously took into consideration the time difference between Australia and the United States and offered an interview time to suit us both. I was kept informed every step of the way and found everyone involved to be incredibly professional and a pleasure to work with. I can’t thank The Authors Show® enough!

Claire Merchant, Author of "Mistry by Moonlight"

The Authors Show® is a wonderful resource for authors to showcase their work, and for readers to find new titles. Being interviewed by Linda was a delightful experience. I felt that I had met a friend after many years, and we had so much to talk about! Her questions were interesting, and I wanted the conversation to continue long past the recommended time. Even so, I never felt hurried. The beautifully edited final product is now on my web page. I’m so pleased.

Mary Behan, Author of “A Measured Thread”

THANK YOU!!! THANK YOU!!! THANK YOU!!! to Danielle Hampson and Don McCauley for providing THE AUTHORS SHOW® as a resource for authors. My interview is great and Don was reassuring and a great encourager. I learned how much I did not know about interviewing. After the interview was over Don took an almost equal amount of time as the interview took to share his knowledge and experience with me, and one piece of advice had an immediate impact. I was much impressed as most people basically want to get their job done and move to the next slot, so this tells me something about Don’s character and the integrity of the people at THE AUTHORS SHOW. I will be spreading the word and will be back for every book as long as they let me. Danielle, thank you! Don, thank you!!! I will not forget your courtesy and kindness.

Vincent H. Ivory, Author of "World World"

Danielle, you are an amazing host and interviewer of upcoming and established authors. I have had three interviews with you for my last three books and have received amazing exposure from them. I believe it is because of The Authors Show’s reputation. Thanks so much, and I will continue to support your show.

John DiCiccio , Author of "The Leadership Gene"

Whether you’re an experienced interviewee or a first-timer, The Authors Show staff and host Don McCauley guide you towards the most productive session possible. Don is also completely up-to-date on the wild west of Internet marketing, and his advice helps you deliver answers in a way that will draw potential buyers to your book. He’s generous with his time, patient and has a great sense of humor.

James Vescovi, Author of "Eat Now; Talk Later: 52 True Tales of Family, Feasting and the American Dream"

Well done. During the airing of my interview and afterwards I had people calling me and going to my website from all over the world. The last few months I have done a tremendous amount of national radio shows, but I can honestly say that my interview on The Authors Show with Don was one of the most easy to do, effective, and relaxed. I am very fortunate to have been on The Authors Show.

Jeff Knott, Author of "Navigating the Healthcare Maze"

My interview with Linda Thompson was nothing short of amazing! We had such a great conversation pre and post interview. Linda is so easy-going, friendly, energetic and a fabulous interviewer/host! She made the experience oh so special! That was my 13th radio podcast interview and by far the best one! I've recommended 3 author friends to ”The Authors Show®”! Thank you to the entire team!

Lucie B Lindner, Author of “Big Bottom Blues”

I can't speak highly enough about Linda Thompson and the entire team of The Authors Show®, led by Danielle Hampson. A top notch professional group that will not only put you at ease for your interview . . . they produce a product you will definitely be proud of. I'm overjoyed with the feedback I've gotten after my initial broadcast. And it keeps coming! The video they put together was impressive as well. Do yourself a favor and take the plunge. You won't regret it.

Michael Byars Lewis, Award-Winning Author - "Veil of Deception"

I met Danielle Hampson, CEO of The Authors Show® in November 2016 at the Readers’ Favorite Awards in Miami, where she was a speaker. When I decided to let The Authors Show assist me in further promoting my latest book “Blood Lake”, I was welcomed on the phone by the interviewer, Linda Thompson, who seems to have a natural gift for making guests feel relaxed. It was like a conversation between two old friends, and the interview was one of the best I have had. Afterward, Danielle even went out of her way to quickly fix a line in the accompanying video, when I mentioned it was an awkward edit of the words I actually wrote. I was delighted with the final interview and video, and highly recommend the professional services of The Authors Show®.

R.L. Herron, Award-Winning Author – “Blood Lake”

Earlier this year, the audio production company for my novel The Audacious Ladies of La Gran Sorellanza highly recommend Danielle Hampson, CEO of The Authors Show®, to assist me in further promoting my book. I took his recommendation and have been both very pleased and in awe of Ms. Hampson’s author/book promotional expertise and creativity. Throughout my dealings with The Authors Show®, I have found each and every experience to be professional, courteous, and of extremely high quality. I look forward to a long and sustained relationship with The Authors Show®.

K-Lee Starland, Author of "The Audacious Ladies of La Gran Sorellanza"

Thanks you for making Elmer Fudd sound like Walter Cronkite. The interview was smooth and professional. I would HIGHLY recommend it to any author.

R. Barry Andrews, Author of "The New Recruit"

My interview by Linda Thompson on The Authors Show® was a relaxing, informative, and a thoroughly enjoyable experience! Her questions were thought-provoking and insightful as she carefully brought out the best of what my novel has to offer potential readers. An added plus was the time Linda spent with me before the actual interview to put me at ease and provide a detailed explanation of what to expect. I would highly recommend the services of The Authors Show to any and all authors - it would be a shame if they missed out on a top-notch quality interview by a professional team!

Mary Frances Fisher , Author of "Paradox Forged in Blood"

I had a blast working with The Author Show®. Not only was my interview with Linda a whole mess of fun, but I was able to share it to my social media pages and give readers a chance to hear a more in-depth insight into the character, the world, and the story. I can't wait until my next interview!

Andy Peloquin, Author of "Blade of the Destroyer"

I thoroughly enjoyed my interactions with the staff of The Author Show®. All were very professional, and the opportunity they afford to us authors in this busy marketplace is a welcomed gift in our attempt to promote our work. I was very pleased with how the interview on my novel turned out. Thank you to The Author Show!

Diane Dresbak, Author of "Promise of Protection"

Anyone who has participated as a guest on The Authors Show® has to have enjoyed the same delightful experience as myself. My initial introductory conversation with Danielle was very warm, friendly and captivating. When the time came for the interview, I was welcomed on the phone by the interviewer, Linda Thompson. Linda has a natural gift for making her guests feel relaxed and at ease. Her questions were thoughtful and insightful. It was easily apparent she had done her homework on my books. I felt like I was conversing with a dear friend as opposed to being interviewed by a complete stranger. I was elated when the final edited interview aired and was ecstatic that it ran for twenty four consecutive hours. This is a gift for writers, like myself, who have friends and family scattered throughout the world in differing time zones. It enabled them all to tune in as their time frame permitted. The Authors Show is a completely professional program. I would highly recommend it to any writer endeavoring to promote their book. They will not be disappointed.

Stephen Murray, Author of "The Chapel of Eternal Love"

My experience with The Authors Show® and interviewer, Linda Thompson, was top notch. This was my first radio interview, and Linda made it very natural and FUN. I really enjoyed talking with her. The comments from folks who listened in include: "it was very professional, engaging and touching." Danielle kept me informed every step of the way on what to expect. Excellent Job to all involved! Thank you so very much. I deeply appreciate all of you!

Bonny Brookes, Author of "Linked Lives"

What can I say that hasn't been said over and over again about The Authors Show®? To say it was a wonderful experience doesn't begin to cover how truly blessed and thankful I am to these wonderful folks at the show. Show host Linda is a kind, warm and enthusiastic host; within minutes you feel like you're speaking to a treasured friend you haven't seen for a while. And the professional edit and communication makes anyone from emerging author to seasoned best-seller sound like a force to be reckoned with. I couldn't be happier with the way my interview sounded and I can't wait to finish another book just to have the chance to appear on the program once again. The entire interview process is easy and comfortable - something as an introvert I greatly appreciate! I'm so happy that I found The Authors Show and I know that being seen by their community is going to help make my work a success. Thank you so much to the entire production team for all you do, we authors appreciate and value the great job you do.

Nicole Delacroix, Author of "Sexual Confessional: Confidential Admissions from Social Media"

What a fabulous experience I had with Linda Thompson, host of The Author Show. Although I have had over 200 radio interviews, I’ve never enjoyed one more! Linda was a phenomenal interviewer and made it fun. She also gave me a brilliant tip to avoid two people talking at the same time. I’ve heard that sensible tip from no other interviewer. It was obvious that the production team had done their homework. Linda knew about me, my background, and was familiar with my stand-alone Web Series. She was a delight to talk with, and the time flew by. I was particularly impressed that she’d even taken the time to write a composite review of Conflicting Webs, my most recent release, and I was thrilled when she read aloud at the end of the podcast. I am looking forward to hearing the edited podcast which will be played for a solid 24hours. Since The Author Show has audiences in many countries, they make the podcasts available for all preferred listening times. Thank you The Authors Show for the experience.

Darlene Quinn, Author of "Conflicting Webs"

My interview was a truly wonderful experience! I have nothing but good things to say about Linda Thompson and The Authors Show. I was crazy nervous at first, but Linda and the producers explained everything I needed to know and quickly put me at ease. Within the first few minutes, Linda and I were talking like old friends. I feel that the interview went especially well and I am looking forward to doing another one.

Caroline Fardig, Author of "It's Just A Little Crush"

The Authors Show was a great experience and opportunity. The interviewer was very professional and the editing of the audio was superb! What a great service!

Tim Alleman and S. Tellez, Authors of "The Principled Legal Standard"

Hi Danielle, I have heard my interview and wish to say thank you! Also I wish to say to you how wonderful a job Linda did. She asked very pertinent questions, was truly professional, and made me feel very comfortable with the whole process! She was a wonderful interviewer, and considering this is my first I will now be comparing all future interviews on her expertise! Thank you to you all!!!! You guys are great!

Jennifer Deese, Author of "The Orchid Keeper"

It was such an honor to have been invited to speak with Don McCauley on The Authors Show! What an incredible gateway to share my story as to how my book series came to be! The Authors Show provides a valuable opportunity to expose authors, giving them an opening to promote their books to the vast, worldwide Authors Show audience. Don did an amazing job at preparing me for the interview!! And it didn’t end there… The Authors Show and it staff continues to guide you with their proven marketing tools they have in place. Thank you so much for this big break!!

Demetra Tsavaris-Lecourezos , Creator and Author of the Young World Travelers Series

I just want to thank The Authors Show and Linda Thompson for conducting an excellent interview. Her questions were direct and focused on the important elements of The Ericksen Connection story and what motivated me to write this spy/action/thriller. Your program provides writers a chance to showcase their creative works and it gives potential readers a wide selection of books they might be interested in purchasing. I want to extend to you and Linda all the best for giving me this opportunity.

Barry L. Becker, Author of "The Ericksen Connection"

I cannot say enough good things about The Authors Show. Danielle Hampson and Don McCauley are consummate professionals and experts in their field. But, more than that, they are wonderful people with a heart to help authors succeed. I was blessed to be interviewed three times on The Authors Show twice by Ms. Hampson and once by Mr. McCauley. Each time I found the experience to be friendly, enjoyable, and professional. The optional support services provided after the interview are of the highest quality. If you are looking for a first-rate company to help you promote your books, you need look no farther than The Authors Show.

MaryAnn Diorio, PhD, Author of Fiction and Non-Fiction

What a fantastic opportunity for authors to showcase their work! I thoroughly enjoyed my interview and conversations with Linda Thompson. I felt relaxed throughout the interview and enjoyed answering the questions she asked. I also appreciated how easy it was to sign up for the interview and how quickly they responded. Getting the questions ahead of time so that I could prepare was also a nice bonus. I have now become an avid listener of the show and will highly recommend it to my fellow authors.

Jill Dobbe , Author of "Here We Are and There We Go"

Danielle, there are no words to tell you how much I love the interview Don McCauley did with me about “Spirit Lights a Path to Mediumship.” I’ll guard the MP3 copy you sent me with my life. Students and friends of mine have all told me how really good they feel it is and how excited they are for me. I’m sure, however, that I’m more excited than anyone else. I felt that it truly gave me a chance to make the path I took from skeptic to medium really live for the listener, as I believe my book will do even more effectively for its readers. You have been extremely helpful and patient and just uncommonly kind in all my exchanges with you. You deserve all the success in the world. This is a genuinely helpful service you’re provide authors and the wonder of it all is that it’s done in a down-to-earth, practical way. I couldn’t be happier about my experience with your service. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. I signed up for your service at about midnight one night wondering how I would ever be able to promote my book and uncertain what help The Authors Show could possibly be. I no longer wonder. It was the best thing I could have done.

Pat Chalfant , Author of “Spirit Lights a Path to Mediumship”

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