Posted on December 4, 2020 at 8:00 AM by Sadye Scott-Hainchek

Today we’re interviewing Don Kennedy, who writes humor and children’s nonfiction.

Kennedy is a Makaha Valley, Oahu, Hawaii, resident, who formerly lived in Las Vegas, Nevada. 

He is semi-retired from a career in radio, TV, and publication journalism (as well as being a casino resort marketing executive) in seven states. 

He is a member of the Hawaii Writer's Guild and a graduate of Concordia College.

In addition to all of that, Kennedy has been appearing as a volunteer Santa Claus for twenty-five years now.

SADYE: How did you come to see yourself as a writer, and what inspired you to seek publication? 

DON: I had been writing all my life as a journalist and in casino marketing but never considered being an author.

After posting annually my favorite Top 10 Humorous and Heartfelt Santa stories on my Facebook page, I was encouraged by friends and family to put it into book and ebook form.

SADYE: Which of your characters would you most and least like to trade places with? 

DON: Oftentimes I'd love to trade places with a five- or six-year-old filled with wonder, imagination, and innocence. Free from demands, fears, burdens, and concerns.

Least likely is a deployed military parent of a young child being apart at special times in their young life.

SADYE: What have been the most surprising, rewarding, and challenging parts of your writing career? 

DON: Being both the author and the main character in the book, I've been surprised, rewarded, and challenged by every aspect of fulfilling both roles simultaneously. It's almost surreal in many ways.

SADYE: What has been the most touching or memorable piece of reader feedback you’ve received? 

DON: Out of the blue, I received a message from Albert McCarthy who wrote, "I just finished reading your book and gave it 5 stars. I should know, I actually am the "official" MALTA SANTA Klaws (island of Malta in Europe). When you perform something for Charity, the return is greater than cash. Go on Don, more and more children need you."

SADYE: What message or theme would you like readers to take away from your work? 

DON: In our world, especially during this 2020 year of a pandemic, we need to be kind, understanding, and welcoming to each other.

Santa Claus provides hope, encouragement, and good cheer. Pass all of this forward to everyone you encounter in life.

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Learn more about Don Kennedy on his Amazon page, where his books can also be purchased; like him on Facebook; and follow him on Twitter and Instagram

Know an author you'd like to see featured? Email us with a recommendation!

Categories: Author Interview

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