Jeff Neal, the reclusive introvert speaks!

Aug. 13, 2012 - PRLog -- York, Pennsylvania - The withdrawn author of Awful, Ohio has inadvertently developed a hermetic reputation.  Denying press conferences and book signings, Jeff Neal has made it abundantly clear to the reading enthusiasts of his unwillingness to participate in public meetings.  On multiple occasions he has dodged public engagements, played hookie for book signings, and vanished prior to reading activities.  

Regardless of these absences, Jeff Neal has only build a stronger demand for a public appearance.  And whether or not he is answering to the public cries of self-demonstration, he has finally offered some form of spice to his hungry following.  

Cassandra from A Book and Movie Dimension blog has done the impossible; landed an interview from the reclusive Jeff Neal.  Following the link, www.bmdimension.blogspot.com/2012/08/big-fan-author-interview-with-jeff-neal.html, and you'll uncover a series of ideas that Jeff Neal had while preparing his acclaimed debut novel, Awful, Ohio.  And what's even more fascinating is his expectations of completing his 2nd novel before the 2013 year.  This is very exciting, as a talent as wild and focused as Jeff Neal's is rare to come by, and it's certainly a treat to hear the young artist preparing more work for cerebral consumption.

1. Jeff thank you for letting me ask some questions and probably taking time from you. Even so really excited! First off, how would you introduce your novel Awful, Ohio to readers who have yet to experience it?

It's a pleasure to answer some questions for you, Cassandra.  

First, I would forewarn them that Awful, Ohio is a fictional extravaganza, that attempts to push the creative boundaries of pop-fiction, closer to the realm of literature.  It's a lyrical, character study on multiple characters, all pursuing conflicting motives.  And hopefully from an explanation like this, the potential reader can then conclude that the finale will be monumental.  

2. If you had to relegate it to a book genre what would it be?

literary farce

3.  How did going to Temple University enrich your writing knowledge and what are your fondest memories of being in Philadelphia?

The great thing about being in Philadelphia, and I imagine any large city, is that you always feel like you're in something.  Whether night or day, if you stare up, you'll see these large, over bearing walls that are entirely encapsulating.  It's literally a like being in a labyrinth.  


4. What parts on writing Awful, Ohio seemed most difficult to you?

Finishing it.  I had always written short stories, where it was easy to remember what you had previously written, or what themes to continue.  But with Awful, Ohio, I was trying to hit a home run, but it became so in depth, that I often got lost in the midst of it all.  I've probably read the thing over 100 times, just so I could remember the character motives, and what the current theme is for a specific chapter.

5. With Awful, Ohio did you want to write for the simple pleasure of entertaining or something like conveying a message? Both?

Conveying a message is up to the reader.  I installed alot of themes, character motives and conflict, and irony, so, depending on the literary awareness of the reader, varying messages may be interpreted.  But mostly, I wrote it for the sake of entertainment.  

6. If you had to list 10 telented authors who would they be?

Vonnegut, Heller, Kesey, Henry Miller, Poe, Nietzsche, David Sedaris, Roald Dahl, Spinoza, Joseph Conrad

7. What do you enjoy doing when not working?

hmmm... isn't everything work?  I guess catching a daytime movie at the theater.

8. Any amazing book or movie you have come across lately?

Bullhead.  A Belgian film that juxtaposes herded cattle with a man forced to take human growth hormones.  A very inovative story with a specific scene that is very challenging to dismiss emotionally.  

9. What are you up to in writing? A sequel to Awful, Ohio or another writing project entirely, do tell?

Another writing project.  No title yet, but it's about a doctor that falls in love with his patient, pitting him against his Hippocratic oath and personal desires.  I'm hoping to have it completed before 2013.

10. Let anyone know a final word, Jeff? It's open ground here!

Treat anything the way it wants to be treated, and it will treat you the way you want to be treated.  


Awful, Ohio is Jeff Neal's debut novel.  It has earned a large cult following, being declared as "an intriguing monster," and a "literary farce."  Awful, Ohio has earned multiple 5 star reviews, and copies of Awful, Ohio can be purchases at http://www.awfulohio.com or on Amazon.com or Apple's iBook store.