Interview with Paul Stutzman: 'Hiking Through'

Paul Stutzman grew up in an Amish/Mennonite community. After 32 years of marriage, he lost his wife to breast cancer and his life changed drastically. In 2008, still grieving, he left a long-time job in restaurant management to thru-hike the Appalachian Trail. His book, Hiking Through, is the story of his hike. More details can be found on his website, www.hikingthrough.com.

Thank you for this interview, Paul. Can you tell us briefly what your latest book, Hiking Through, is all about?

After a year grieving the loss of my wife Mary, I knew my life needed desperate changes. I´m a hiking and nature enthusiast and I´d always dreamed of thru-hiking the AT, so this book is the story of both my hike and my healing.

Can you tell us who or what was the inspiration behind your book?

Obviously, my wife´s death is what caused me to focus more on living.

Is this your first published book and if so, can you tell us your experiences in finding a publisher for it?

Yes, this is my first book. I´d heard stories of how difficult it is to find a publisher these days, and I did want control of what happened to my book so I decided to self-publish. I sent the manuscript to BookPros in Austin, Texas. They read the book, accepted it, and the process began.

How has BookPros been to work with?

I worked with Synergy Books, a division of BookPros. They´ve been very professional. I´ve been very satisfied with my choice.

Do you have an agent?

No. I was in a hurry to get this out, so I jumped in and did the work myself.

Can you tell us how long it took you to write your book and also how long it took from the time Synergy Books sent the contract and the time it was released?

I spent almost nine months writing Hiking Through. I signed my contract on June 4, 2009. I had books ready for sale locally in ten months. April 6, 2010, is the national release date.

Do you have any words of inspiration for other writers who would like to be wearing your shoes?

Remember, my shoes are hiking shoes! At times during my hike, it seemed impossible that I would ever be able to walk from Georgia to Maine. But I got up every morning and started walking. Anyone who has a dream needs to get up every morning and keep walking.

I understand that you are touring with Pump Up Your Book in March and April via a virtual book tour. Can you tell us all why you chose a virtual book tour to promote your book online?

The web is such an effective way to get your message to all parts of the world, it seemed a good way to promote the book.

What´s next for you?

I spend a lot of time promoting Hiking Through. But I´m also planning a cross-country bicycle trip and a book to follow that.

Thank you for this interview, Paul. Can you tell us how we can find out more about you and your new book?

Visit my website www.hikingthrough.com. Read the book, and you´ll know me pretty well!