Del Staecker
Del Staecker is an award-winning writer with several books published, including TARD. He answered these questions about his work and his life for Red Engine Press.
What gave you the idea to write about disabled characters?
I believe everyone is disabled in some manner. Like all my characters the two disabled main ones in TARD just appeared to me.
The inspiration for Richard came from knowing a real person who lived across the street from me during my childhood. He was often mistreated by people. His experiences never left me.
Matt came from my exposure to a Downe Syndrome girl who worked at a food stand in our local market. She was a beautiful person to see. Her eyes followed people and belied an intelligence beyond the stereotype of her condition. I learned of mosaic DS and reversed it after speaking to a doctor about the condition being possible-to look like DS and be mentally “normal.”
Who designed your cover?
Sandra Miller
Who edited your book?
Sandra Miller
When do you write?
No particular schedule. I write when “my muse” inspires me, often late at night. Sometimes I’m awakened by an idea or phrase at 2 or 3 a.m.
Where do you prefer to write?
Several places - I have a favorite spot on our sofa, a very comfortable recliner, and a perch at the end of our kitchen counter.
Are you working on another book now?
I have several in various stages.
Did you outline your book before you started writing or did you write as you went along?
I have never outlined anything I’ve written. I follow where the characters lead me.
Is this the first book you’ve written? If others, mention them.
It’s my tenth book. I’ve written two World War Two historical memoir-based books, a spiritual re-write of The Book of Job, and several crime fictions.
Who helped you with the research on this book?
My Muse.
Do you have any scheduled book signings or speaking engagements coming up?
No
Tell us something about yourself other than writing.
My career prior to writing was in fundraising for charities. I served as my profession’s national leader and am known as the originator of The Donor Bill of Rights, for which I was honored by a Life Fellowship in the Royal Society of Arts (London, UK) and a knighthood in the Order of St. John (Malta).
I am an avid baseball fan
Do you have hobbies?
I read, walk, and watch YouTube.
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