Author Name:
Connard Hogan
Book Title:
Once Upon a Kentucky Farm: Hope and Healing from Family Abuse, Alcoholism and Dysfunction
Website URL:
Link to book page on Amazon:
Social Media Links:
FB – https://www.facebook.com/connard.hogan
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/connard-hogan-9400b349/
YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCiKk_yZw3mUJ4wDl_ANur4Q
What is your book about?
Connard seeks harmony and escape from his parents’ marital conflict over his father’s binge drinking and physical abuse of his mother. He finds respite during visits to his maternal grandparents’ Kentucky subsistence farm, where life appears peaceful. There, he experiences unconditional love from extended family members and the exuberance of large family gatherings, and gains appreciation for nature and the rhythm of the seasons. Over time, however, Connard is forced to grapple with his role in killing both domesticated and wild animals. In addition, family tragedies leave him no choice but to face issues of death and personal loss. Connard shines a light on the struggles of those living with trauma and encourages appreciation of the healing powers of unconditional love.
What inspired you to write your book?
I came to believe that sharing my experiences (and wisdom) could be helpful to others. In addition, I like crafting mental pictures with words.
What is a typical day like for you?
Cold cereal and coffee before I sit at my desktop computer to begin writing (drafting, editing, etc), checking and responding to my emails, checking and responding to social media notifications. Usually, I’m absorbed until dinner time, except for a lunch break.
What do you most enjoy about what you do?
Crafting a good turn of phrase and conjuring visualizations.
What are some favorite books you’d recommend to our readers?
Dandelion Wine; The Things They Carried; The Deep History of Ourselves; 1491.
What advice do you have to offer our readers?
Dispense with the myth of “writer’s block.”
What would people be surprised to learn about you?
My mountain climbing successes and that I’ve visited the highest point of every state in the US, plus DC!
What’s next for you?
Publication of my army/Vietnam experiences/trauma. Coming early 2023.
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