This week’s author interview is with John Crotts. He is the author of Hope: Living Confidently in God (31-Day Devotionals for Life series).

  • Tell us a little bit about yourself

I’m originally from Virginia Beach, VA. My wife, Lynn, and I have been married for 31 years. We have four kids and one granddaughter. I love watching and playing sports, reading, and drinking coffee.

  • When did you first want to write a book?

I have had a heart to write a book since college. I love the idea of expressing a biblical message that could go places that I will never go and reach people after I am gone.

  • Which writers inspire you?

Too many to list.

  • Have you always enjoyed writing?

Growing up I enjoyed creative writing.

  • What inspired you to write this book, about this topic?

The world is a negative place. I wanted to inspire positive hope from all over the Bible. The format of the 31-Day Devotionals for Life series let me offer a daily dose of hope for a whole month.

  • Do you have a specific spot where you enjoy writing most?

I like writing in coffee shops.

  • What book are you reading now?

I am reading Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis. I am trying to pick up some of the classics that I missed earlier in my Christian life.

  • Other than the Bible, do you have a favorite book? 

Don Whitney’s Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life

  • Do you have a favorite author? Who is it and why?

Daniel Silva can write a spy novel so compelling that it almost reads itself. I love losing myself in his stories on long plane trips.

  • Do you have a favorite quote?

“He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose.” —Jim Elliot

It is a great reminder to keep one eye on eternity. 

  • What advice would you give to aspiring writers?

Writing a book takes way longer than you would think. Be patient. Editors are helping your book be better, not destroying your art. 

  • Do you have a favorite book that you have written?

Probably Graciousness: Tempering the Truth with Love. 

  • At what time of day do you write most?

My best time is mid-morning. 

  • What has been the toughest criticism given to you as an author? What has been the best compliment?

As a pastor, I take it very seriously if someone thinks I have misused Scripture. The best compliments have been about my books helping readers understand and apply the Bible to their lives.

  • Is there anything you would like to add that you have not been asked about?

I have eaten Pizza Hut in over 20 international cities. 

  • Favorite food?

Pizza

  • Favorite flavor of ice cream?

Cookie Dough

  • Favorite animal? Why?

Tiger—powerful and sleek 

  • Do you have a favorite movie? What is it and why?

Gladiator. It is an inspiring story of leadership, responsibility, and overcoming.

  • What famous person (living or dead) would you like to meet and why?

George W Bush. I would love to ask him about what he was thinking during some of the crisis moments of his presidency

  • Favorite sport to watch? Favorite sport’s team?

My favorite sport changes by season. Boston Red Sox.

  • How can readers discover more about you and your work?

NOW AVAILABLE — Hope: Living Confidently in God

Amazon: $9.99

Christianbook: $8.49

P&R Publishing: $7.50

PCA Bookstore: $7.79

WTS Books: $7.63

Kindle: $6.99

Related posts:

  1. Excerpt from Hope: Living Confidently in God by John Crotts
  2. Author Interview with Rachel Miller
  3. Author Interview with Dan Barber
  4. Author Interview with John Frame
  5. Author Interview with John D. Currid