Born into a family of avid writers and readers, Michael’s passion for storytelling runs deep—writing isn’t just something he does; it’s who he is. Ever since he first watched The Goonies as a kid, Michael has been captivated by the power of adventure, compelling characters, and the ability of stories to entertain and inspire. Whether crafting monster theme parks or penning insightful guidance in self-help, his goal remains the same: to create narratives that stick with readers long after they’ve turned the last page.
Michael is a lifelong movie buff, a music playlist aficionado, a horrendous golfer, and a sucker for esoteric & self-help books. He lives on Long Island’s North Shore with his wife and children.
His latest book is Monsterland.
Connect with Michael on X and Instagram.
Can you tell us what your book, Monsterland, is about?
A teen has to save his date in a theme park whose main attractions – real werewolves, vampires and zombies – descend the place into chaos.
Can you tell us a little about your main and supporting characters?
Wyatt Baldwin is a restless, big-hearted teen caught between small-town normalcy and the terrifying secrets of Monsterland. His journey forces him to confront fear, responsibility, and the courage to stand against forces far bigger than himself.
Your book is set in Copper Valley. Can you tell us why you chose this location in particular?
I chose Copper Valley – a fictional desert town in California, because it represents the kind of small, overlooked town where people feel forgotten, making it the perfect backdrop for a story about exploitation, corruption, and hidden truths. Its isolation heightens the tension, while its everyday familiarity makes the supernatural horrors of Monsterland hit even harder.
How long did it take you to write your book?
About 4 months.
What has been the most pivotal point of your writing life?
The most pivotal point of my writing life was realizing that my stories could resonate beyond just entertainment…that they could carry themes, metaphors, and emotions that stay with readers long after the last page. That moment shifted my focus from simply writing cool ideas to creating worlds and characters with lasting impact.
What kind of advice would you give up and coming authors?
I’d tell up-and-coming authors to write relentlessly and fearlessly. Don’t wait for inspiration….build discipline. Read widely, study structure, and never be afraid of rewriting, because that’s where the real magic happens. Most importantly, trust your voice…no one else can tell your story.
