Andy Gets Angry received a 4+ star review, making it an IndieReader Approved title.
Following find an interview with author Mike Masse.
What is the name of the book and when was it published?
Andy Gets Angry, September 2021.
What’s the book’s first line?
This is Andy.
What’s the book about? Give us the “pitch”.
Andy Gets Angry follows the story of a boy (Andy) who’s encountering a series of events that cause him to react with anger. Andy learns how to use a simple breath technique to help him develop a response to his anger, as well as realizing that anger (like any emotion) is ok.
What inspired you to write the book? A particular person? An event?
I am a public speaker and consultant full time. My business (mindfulmike.ca) helps a wide range of humans learn how to incorporate mindfulness into their daily life to best help them work with their thoughts, and emotions in a healthy way. I do a lot of work with schools and early learning, I found that most humans don’t treat their emotions with equanimity. For example we label anger,as a “bad” emotion, and happiness as a “good” emotion, which I have found creates a negative narrative around those emotions. I wanted to create a resource where any child could see that all humans experience emotions, and all emotions are ok to experience. Andy Gets Angry at its core is use leaning how to work with those difficult emotions, in a healthier way which can be a true game changer, and what better way then to start with our children.
What’s the main reason someone should really read this book?
A great introduction into mindfulness and noting our emotions. I’ve had many parents reach out and say “Mike I could use this book” lol
What’s the most distinctive thing about the main character? Who-real or fictional-would you say the character reminds you of?
We used my youngest son Beau as the model for my book, which I drew a wealth of material from, as well as my time working front line with children.
When did you first decide to become an author?
When I was working with a couple school boards, I was using a technique I created called stress ball breathing (the main exercise in the book) and I thought “oh this would be a good book and hopefully a great resource for staff and students”
Is this the first book you’ve written?
Yes.
What do you do for work when you’re not writing?
I am the VP of awesomeness for mindfulmike.ca where I have the pleasure of teaching my passion of how we can practically apply mindfulness to our daily life, to help us be more present, more often vs living in the future with what “might”, “may” or “could” happen, or rehashing what “has” happened. I work with a wide range of agencies from hospitals, first responders, our military and schools.
How much time do you generally spend on your writing?
I set aside a couple hours each week to write, however most of my ideas come from when I am teaching or in the middle of a session or webinar. It’s common practice now for me to say to the audience “oh that’s a good idea for my book and I’ll make a note”
What’s a great piece of advice that you can share with fellow indie authors?
I’d suggest write from your heart, and your passion. Also connecting with other indie authors has been a true pleasure!
Would you go traditional if a publisher came calling? If so, why?
I honestly don’t know, it would depend on many factors. I love doing my own thing, as I’ve been Self-Employed for most of my adult career. I often trust my gut, despite negative self talk, so it would truly depend on who’s is calling and if they would want to change anything that wouldn’t connect with me.
Is there something in particular that motivates you (fame? fortune?)
I want to help as many humans as possible be present. Mindfulness forever changed my life and I’ve witness thousands of others over the years have a profound shift once they commit to a regular practice of self care, and self compassion. I definitely didn’t write this book to become rich lol.
Which writer, living or dead, do you most admire?
Thich Nhat Hauh, anything he has written connects with my heart. His teachings are gentle and subtle but yet have had significant impact on my life
Which book do you wish you could have written?
The moody cow meditates, which is a fantastic book for children.