Writing Oliver
11 Years from Idea to Book
The Journey of Oliver K. Woodman is a book that I journeyed with for eleven years, from first draft to final book. Oliver’s official publication date was April 1, 2003, which seems a curious counterpoint to the sort of (good) luck that befalls the story’s hero.
It all began when I saw a newspaper article about a wooden man who traveled around the country. People who helped him travel sent postcards back to the owner. I thought there should be a story there, but it took time to figure out how I should approach the narrative. It seemed awkward to write it from the wooden man’s viewpoint—and then it struck me that Oliver’s story could be told in letters.
I took out a map of the United States and started to write. This time, I wrote each postcard or letter in the voice of the person who helped Oliver travel. Some friends had moved to Rock Hill, South Carolina, so I started there. And I’ve always wanted to see the redwoods, so I ended near there.
In fact, most places Oliver travels through in the book have a special meaning for me. I currently live in Arkansas; my father grew up in Texas; I was born in Albuquerque, New Mexico and spent my childhood there; a friend of mine lives in Utah; my aunt liked visiting casinos; and I have always wanted to see the redwoods.
LOOK INSIDE The Journey of Oliver K. Woodman at Amazon.com
