1) Tell us a little bit about yourself. How did you get into writing?

I was raised on Long Island, NY. My first writings date back to when I was a child. Art always offered me comfort even at a young age. I graduated with a Bachelor’s in Literature from American University in Washington DC, where I then lived for seven years and met my fiancée, Delana. We’ve since moved to Philadelphia into a home with our two precious cats, Peanut Butter and Keebler.

2) What inspired you to write your book?

Palm Lines is largely influenced by my own experiences and relationships, with friends and family and with myself. Yet, more than anything, I hope others read and find something to latch onto themselves.

3) What theme or message do you hope readers will take away from your book?

Be kind to the lonely child waiting in your heart.

4) What drew you into this particular genre?

I’m drawn to poetry the way blood reaches my heart, the way wounds scab over.

5) What social media site has been the most helpful in developing your readership?

Maybe Instagram or Twitter, but mainly I’ve found my fans through other channels — workshops, open mics, journal events etc…

6) What advice would you give to aspiring or just starting authors out there?

Write more than you know what to do with, and never stop believing it is all worth the wait.

7) What does the future hold in store for you? Any new books/projects on the horizon?

My debut fiction novella Below Torrential Hill is a 2020 Electric Eclectic Novella Prize winner, and releases this December. What to expect? A supernatural comet, voices from the sink, a boy’s coming-of-age, a presence calling from the woods . . . Keep an eye out! I also have a few shorter poems and fiction pieces being published before then. Follow my Twitter or Instagram for updates @jonathankoven. You can also read all my work featured so far at this link.

About the Author

Jonathan Koven grew up on Long Island, NY, embraced by tree-speak, tide’s rush, and the love and support of his family. He holds a BA in Literature and Creative Writing from American University, works as a technical writer, and is Toho Journal’s head fiction editor and workshop coordinator. He lives in Philadelphia with his best friend and future wife Delana, and cats Peanut Butter and Keebler. Credits include Lindenwood Review, Night Picnic Press, Iris Literary, and more. His debut chapbook Palm Lines is available from Toho Publishing, and his award-winning novella Below Torrential Hill is expected winter 2021 from Electric Eclectic.

https://jonathanadamkoven.wixsite.com/portfolio

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