Michael Slupski is a writer from Erie, Pennsylvania, where he lives with his wife and their dog, Beau. He holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and an associate’s degree in computer science. His writing is inspired by everyday moments, personal experiences, and the loyal companionship of Beau, who sparked the idea for this book. Through his storytelling, Michael combines heart, humor, and a deep appreciation for the bond between humans and their dogs. When he’s not writing, he enjoys spending time with his family and appreciating the simple joys that often lead to the best stories. He is excited to share his story with readers.
Q: What inspired the idea behind your book?
A: What inspired the idea for my book was my time working from home and having a brand-new puppy in the house. Beau and I would spend just about every waking moment together. Since I brought him, I was always curious about what it was like from his perspective. He was learning the ins and outs of being a member of the family in the best way a dog can. That is the idea of the whole story taking place within that first year of Beau being with the family.
Q: As an author, what tips would you give anyone who wants to get into writing?
A: It might seem odd, but you don’t have to write in order. You can jump around in your writing—it’s okay! Writer’s block causes a lot of this. I feel that can be bypassed with this idea of jumping around. There are fixed points in your story that will make it okay. You know how you want to start it and finish it. If you make the story fit in between those two points, it’s all about creativity from that point on.
Another tip: When it comes to character creation, use the people around you. I know that sounds odd, but write what you know. I have created people out of thin air, but deep down, they are just the people in my life. It doesn’t have to be good or bad; it just gives character life in a way that makes it easier for you.
Q: What is your favorite book?
A: I don’t really have a single favorite book because I’m drawn to such a wide range of stories—fantasy, sci-fi, magic, and realism. I’ve found that each one sticks with me in a different way, depending on when I read it and what I need at the time. While I could choose one, it wouldn’t really represent what I love about reading. Picking just one feels possible but also a bit limiting.
Q: Was your main character modeled after anyone in your life?
A: My main character is modeled after my cattle dog, Beau. Beau’s humans are then modeled after my wife and me. The other dogs are my parents’ and in-laws’ dogs. I find that basing my characters on those around me makes them a little easier to create.
Q: What is your favorite part of the writing process?
A: I truly like the idea stage. The thought process is a nice neutral ground where nothing is final. Something that might not work right now can be saved for another book or story. This stage is a place for all the ideas to come, both good and bad.
Q: Do you believe that being a “good writer” is a developed skill or a natural talent?
A: I feel that it is a bit of both. Someone can be skilled in a verbal telling of a story, but when it comes to writing, they have difficulty. As a child, I loved telling stories, but for the life of me, I couldn’t put anything on paper without truly working at it. I believe that there is a natural talent for storytelling, but being a good writer is a skill developed over time.
Q: Do you have a favorite book, poem, TV, or movie quote?
A: “I hope to leave this world a little softer than when I found it. I won’t be taking anything with me, so I hope what I leave behind is a little bit kinder to you.” —Unknown
Q: Would you write another book (or are you already writing another book)?
A: Regarding my Raising Beau series, I have two other stories already written as of this moment: an adventure where Beau goes camping and one where he is looking for his misplaced squeaky toy. I really enjoy writing for children and building something children can relate to.
I am also currently working on a longer novel to see if I can write for a more mature audience. I love the idea of doing both.
Q: Is there an author you look up to, and why?
A: I would say the author I have looked up to the most within the last few years would be Jonathan Maberry. I like his writing style and his novels. He engages with his fans regularly and holds weekly Q&As on his social media platforms. He holds classes for other writers to help better their own writing styles. He doesn’t gatekeep the industries’ secrets. From what I have perceived, he wants to see others succeed.
Q: If there were an apocalypse and you could only take five books into your doomsday bunker, what would they be?
A:
- Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson
- The Stand by Stephen King
- Patient Zero by Jonathan Maberry
- Eragon by Christopher Paolini
- The Hobbit by J. R. R. Tolkien
Learn more about Michael's new children's book, Raising Beau, here. Coming soon June 30, 2026!