Why did you decide to write Tender Dreams, Harsh Reality? Did the inspiration come at a particular moment, or had you been planning to write the book for a while?
The idea for Tender Dreams, Harsh Reality had been with me for decades. Over the years, people would often say things like, “I heard you spent time in jail in Mexico, how did that happen?” or “You must have quite a story about your trials and tribulations during the Vietnam War,” or “Tell me about that year-long wilderness program you did.”
Each question opened the door to a story that was far too complex
to tell in a brief conversation. I would start, then realize there simply
wasn’t enough time, or the right setting to do the experiences justice.
Eventually, it became clear that these stories needed more room to breathe.
I kept telling myself, I should write this down. What began as a way to share my experiences with friends and family gradually evolved into something more. I realized that others, beyond my immediate circle might find meaning, insight, or even inspiration in these stories as well. Writing the book became the natural way to finally tell them fully, honestly, and in my own voice.
From the time you started writing Tender Dreams, Harsh
Reality, how long did it take to get it out there? Any obstacles along the
way, or none that you can think of?
The
writing itself took approximately a year. Once the manuscript was complete, I
spent another five months editing and carefully considering which publishing
path to pursue. That stage required just as much thought and commitment as the
writing, as I wanted to be sure the book was presented in the best possible
way.
Like most creative projects, there were potential obstacles, but I was fortunate not to face them alone. The guidance and support of my editor made a tremendous difference. Not only did they help refine the manuscript, but they also walked me through the self-publishing process, which could have been overwhelming otherwise. Without that assistance, I’m certain the journey would have been far more challenging.
What are some of the positive results or responses you have received since publishing your book?
The feedback
from readers has been truly phenomenal and deeply gratifying. Shortly after
publishing Tender Dreams, Harsh Reality, I began writing my second
book, which meant I didn’t initially have much time to focus on marketing the
first one. I’m only now starting to give it the attention it deserves.
Even so, the responses I’ve received have been incredibly encouraging. Several book clubs have chosen the book, and hearing their reactions has been especially meaningful. Many readers connected with the experiences and themes, and it was a genuine pleasure to go down memory lane with book club members who shared similar moments, questions, or reflections. Those conversations have been among the most rewarding outcomes of publishing the book.
Can you share three interesting facts about your book?
- Much of the book is drawn directly from my
journals I kept throughout the periods of my life it covers. These
firsthand accounts allowed me to capture events, emotions, and reflections
with honesty and immediacy.
- During my year-long wilderness program, our class
participated in an unconventional experience: after completing a two-week
wilderness survival course, we spent an additional week in Oakland
learning what was described as “urban survival.” Twenty-five years later,
I returned to Oakland and reconnected with several of the organizations
that had supported me during that formative time.
- I later worked with young adults from various Juvenile Halls throughout the Bay Area, leading them on 30-day wilderness expeditions. This rehabilitative, experiential model was eventually adopted by Outward Bound, a well-known program for adolescents.
Can you list three interesting facts about yourself?
1) In the late 1970s, I taught psychology at a junior college and
worked with learning-disabled students, using hypnosis and Gestalt therapy
primarily to treat phobias. The program proved highly successful, and I went on
to lecture at other colleges on how to develop and implement similar
approaches.
2) I founded an alternative master’s program in Northern
California that allowed students to earn a degree in psychotherapy while
simultaneously accruing supervised hours toward licensure. The program was
taught by leading therapists and professors from the Bay Area and developed a
four-year waiting list.
3) I have a deep love of travel and have traveled extensively
since the 1980s, exploring cultures and places that have continually shaped my
personal and professional perspective.
How can our readers reach out to you?
By email at johnwbeilharz@gmail.com or on Facebook at
https://www.facebook.com/people/John-Beilharz-Author
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