It took a pandemic to move middle school teacher Jon Fishman to finally get his story out of his head. He published his YA novel Ask Me How Do I Feel in mid-2025 and readers are thrilled with the results. Keep reading to meet this teacher-content creator-author.
Let’s get started learning about you. Who is Jon Fishman?
I see myself as a dedicated educator and passionate storyteller, known for my creativity and enthusiasm in the middle school classroom as an English/Language Arts teacher. I love building connections with students and readers, always encouraging curiosity and a love of lifelong learning. Outside of school and writing, I’m a big fitness fan; running, CrossFit, and pickleball are some of my go-tos, and I also enjoy getting muddy in my garden whenever I can.
Tell us a bit about Ask Me How Do I Feel. What is it about, what inspired the story, and how long did it take for you to move toward publication?
Ask Me How Do I Feel is a heartfelt story that grew out of some significant losses in my life and the challenge of processing the fact that loved ones were no longer here. I often felt my time with them was unfinished and wondered what it would be like if we could still be together somehow. During the COVID-19 lockdown, I finally found the space to put my feelings into words and really let the story take shape. By 2024, I was ready to share it with others and move toward publishing, hoping it might inspire young adult readers.
Your book came across some unique challenges, as it centers around a high school production of Guys & Dolls. Talk a bit about what you did to in an effort to get approval for using song lyrics, what your final solution was, and how you think this affected the book overall.
Within my book, characters auditioning for a high school production of Guys & Dolls presented some challenges, especially regarding copyright laws for using song lyrics. I had to carefully navigate what I was allowed to include and what I couldn’t, which meant finding alternatives from directly quoting the music. Guys & Dolls holds a special place in my heart, not only for its memorable characters but also because it brought back wonderful memories of time spent with my grandparents during my childhood. I knew it was essential to keep the spirit of the show in the book, so I focused on capturing the feeling and atmosphere without stepping on any copyright issues. This challenge ultimately made the story stronger by encouraging creative ways to honor the musical’s impact while respecting legal boundaries.
Who is your target audience, and what do you hope readers get out of your book?
As a middle school English teacher and avid reader, my target audience is young adults, especially those who can see themselves reflected in the story. I hope my novel reaches kids who are navigating similar challenges and emotions, helping them feel understood and less alone. Relatability is important to me because it creates a connection between reader and story, making the experience more meaningful. Adults who have read the book often tell me it takes them back to their own high school experiences, reminding them of the joys and struggles of those formative years. Ultimately, I want my book to inspire empathy and reflection across all ages.
How did you find Argyle Fox Publishing, and what made you think we would be a good fit?
I first caught the attention of Argyle Fox Publishing when several of my TikTok videos went viral, and [Argyle Fox Publishing founder Daniel Brantley] began engaging with my content. Curious, I looked them up, especially since I had received some “no” responses from other publishers. Daniel was genuinely excited to read my manuscript, and during our first Zoom meeting, we immediately connected. From that moment, I knew this would be a fantastic experience, and it truly was!
The cover art for Ask Me How Do I Feel is fantastic! Talk about how you developed the idea and your special connection with the cover artist.
Thank you so much for the kind words! While I helped shape the vision, the real magic came from webcomic artist BeetleMoses. His unique style and creativity brought the story’s spirit to life in a way that truly exceeded my hopes. The scenes in the cafeteria were some of my favorites to write and re-read.
I have a special connection with BeetleMoses’s work because his art is not only visually captivating but also deeply thoughtful and infused with humor… and he’s my son! Everyone must check out his work—he’s @beetlemoses on all platforms.
Now that your book is published, how will you measure whether it’s a success? What is your goal for the book?
I feel success for my book will be measured by how deeply it connects with readers. Already I have heard how powerful the characters and dialogue are to the readers. If the characters and story linger with them long after they finish reading, then that’s the sign of a good story. My goal is to inspire, engage, and spark conversations among young adults. Positive reader reviews and meaningful feedback will be key to ensure the book is making an impact in the community.
What are you doing to market your book and let folks know it is available?
I’m actively marketing my book on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook with authentic content and reader engagement. I’m also visiting bookstores for signings and working to get my novel into local libraries, connecting personally as a local writer to build community support and reach more readers.
What feedback have you received so far on your book?
The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive and incredibly touching. I’m truly grateful for the beautiful words readers have shared whether in reviews, messages, or casual texts. Each is expressing how the story and characters have resonated with them. It’s been amazing to hear how the book has connected with people on a personal level.
What do you now know about book publishing that you wish you knew before getting started?
Book publishing has taught me that patience and teamwork are essential, as success often depends on trusting the process and collaborating closely with others throughout the process.
What would you say to other authors who have a great story they aren’t sure if they should publish?
If you have a story, remember that your voice matters and there is an audience out there eager to hear your words. Your story needs to be told, and sharing it can inspire, connect, and impact more people than you might imagine.
Do you have another book up your sleeve? If so, can you give us a sneak preview of what to expect from your next book?
Yes! My next book is set in the 1980s and we go back to summer camp. It explores heartfelt sibling relationships as well as the deep bond between parents and children, with an exciting twist involving time travel.
Where can readers find you online?
You can find me on Instagram and TikTok, where I share updates, behind-the-scenes moments, and connect with readers—oh, and post pictures of my dog!
Thanks so much for sharing your story, and here’s to more readers falling in love with your story!