On The Table Read Magazine, “the best entertainment eBook magazine UK“, J. David Holt talks about his new book, The Mystery Of Mushroom Valley, in which city kid Taylor learns about nature and friendship from Aunt Nell and Uncle Hat, but a selfish act leads to a magical encounter.
Written by JJ Barnes
I interviewed J. David Holt about his new children’s book, The Mystery Of Mushroom Valley, what inspired his story, and his creative writing process.
Tell me a bit about who you are.
Described by one editor as “an accomplished narrative writer,” I credit my high school English teacher, who was a “taskmaster,” for pushing me to write every day and encouraging me to use my first initial! I have written numerous magazine articles, many of them about the history of the American West. I am particularly interested in discovering and writing about the “truth” of American history. Now retired from a career in advertising and living in the mountains of Colorado, I reflected on memories from my own childhood and those of my children to craft The Mystery of Mushroom Valley. With it, I hope to share the values of sharing time, friendships, personal discovery and encouraging others.
When did you first WANT to write a book?
I really never wanted to write a book. However, I had this story in my file for 15+ years. I set a goal a year ago to get it published as I wanted to leave it as a legacy.
When did you take a step to start writing?
I’ve been writing since high school – newspaper and magazine articles, a 300 page manuscript on my son, my own memoirs, etc.
How long did it take you to complete your first book?
The rough draft was in my file in January 2024. the book was published January 10, 2025.
What made you want to write The Mystery Of Mushroom Valley?
I realized that I didn’t want this story to be in my file when I died!
What were your biggest challenges in writing The Mystery Of Mushroom Valley?
The biggest challenges were simply learning to process of publishing a first book, not really writing it.
Who inspired you when creating your protagonist?
The main character was a combination of my own and my son’s experiences with older people who inspired and encouraged us giving us their time to share their knowledge.
What is the inciting incident in The Mystery Of Mushroom Valley?
Taylor, the 10-year-old, selfishly picks all the mushrooms in ”Mushroom Valley,” and the next season there are no more.
Did you get support with editing?
I used a professional service to review the book and make suggestions. A leprechaun character was added to appeal to children, but it needed little editing.
What piece of writing advice would you give to anyone inspired to write a story.
Just do it. Write and keep writing. Join a writing group for advice and inspiration.
Any further books you’re planning to write?
Like Harper Lee, this is probably my only book.
Are you proud of your accomplishment? Was it worth the effort?
Yes. And Yes. The book turned out very well. It means a lot to me. I’m proud of the fact that seven of seven reviews so far are 5-Star reviews. It was definitely worth the effort. It’s an excellent story that provides valuable “values” lessons for kids. I hope many of them get a chance to experience the story.
By the Way . . .
The book was illustrated by a woman in the Ukraine. She gets four hours of electricity each day, but doesn’t know in advance when that will be. In the midst of war, the illustrator created a beautiful cover and beautiful illustrations for The Mystery of Mushroom Valley.
Pop all your book, website, and social media links here so the readers can find you.
Kindle: https://amzn.to/4hVIurx
Paperback: https://amzn.to/4i4yWe7
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdavidholt
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