We are thrilled to share that one of our WGI Writers has published a book!

Read below to hear from Daniel on his poetry book entitled, Shadows of the Battlefield.

1. Tell us about your book!

It’s a poetry book that mostly covers poetry about combat or things related to my tours overseas. I chose to keep it to rhyming poetry because at the time of writing these poems the rhyming was helping me cognitively.

2. What was the inspiration for the book?

I took a class on writing about trauma that showed me what was possible with writing, related to healing. I believe writing, or any creative act is about feeling something. I want others to feel something when they read my writing.

3. Where can people purchase the book? 

You can find it on Amazon and more of Daniel’s writing on Substack!

4. What do you think makes a good story, and what kinds of stories are you drawn to?

The best stories cause emotion. And connect you to someone or something you may have never seen before. Stories transport us and give us a picture of a different life. I’m drawn to stories of perseverance and strength. Stories that make me think, and stories that are different from anything I’ve ever done.

5. What is your earliest memory of writing? How did you start?

I was never really a writer until I took a class on writing about trauma. Through that class I realized that it was something I loved. And something that has helped me. I write much easier than I talk.

6. What are you working on next?

I’m currently working on a nonfiction book about overcoming trauma written from personal experience. Things that I’ve picked up along the way that have helped me.

7. Do you have any advice, tips, guidance or resources you’d like to share for someone who wants to write? 

I would say to start. You will get better in time, and most of the rules of writing are meant to be broken. Writing is a personal experience so don’t feel like you have to write like anyone else. Join a group and learn from others who are already writing. The person who is meant to read your writing will find it but only if you put it out there.

A great place to start is Substack. It’s social media without the trolls. And it’s all about being creative. The final thing I would say is don’t think you need a degree to be a writer. If you have a pad and a pen you can begin.