The Conman: A Baseball Odyssey is based on the life of professional baseball player Keith Comstock. What was the inspiration that made you want to write and publish this fascinating story?
I have known Keith for many years and have spent a lot of time with him talking about baseball. Keith is a talented and funny story-teller. He could have made a career as a stand-up comic. But I also realized that behind all those funny stories was a lot of struggle and heartbreak as well. I talked with Keith for several years about the possibility of a book, and he finally agreed.
What was the writing collaboration like between you and Keith Comstock?
Over the course of six months or so we met a couple of afternoons a week at an IHOP in north Phoenix. I’d ask questions and take notes. Other times, we’d meet in his office at the Texas Rangers Spring Training complex in Surprise, and we’d combine a pitching lesson with more discussion about the book. I’m an amateur pitcher playing in old-man baseball leagues, and Keith finds my lack of ability amusing.
What were some themes that were important for you to focus on in this book?
Most baseball books are a collection of funny stories or big-game moments. Both Keith and I wanted to present the reality of professional baseball’s grind. I wanted to show the human cost of single-minded purpose—the things that family and friends sacrifice to a player’s ambition. The Conman has plenty of funny moments. But they are balanced by the poverty of struggling through the minor leagues, and by the constant specter of failure.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
The second book in my Physics, Lust and Greed Series—Taking Time—came out a couple of weeks ago. I am finishing the editing process and the third book in this humorous time-travel series. I am also working on my first non-fiction book about the Chad Mitchel Trio and the 60’s era of folk music. Both those books will be published next year.
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