When was the last time you read an engaging children’s action book about the free-market economy? If you answered “Never,” you need to grab a copy of John Suter’s Free Market Man and Capitalist Boy. Keep reading to meet the man behind the story.
Let’s get started learning about you. Who is John Suter?
I am an author and high school science teacher who has always enjoyed telling stories. I wrote my first novel in high school, but it was a complete disaster. Instead of giving up, I continued writing and finally became a published author at the age of forty-five. It took a while, but the dream finally came true.
Tell us a bit about Free Market Man and Capitalist Boy. What is it about and what inspired you to write your book?
Free Market Man and Capitalist Boy is a superhero story about two normal men who have been called to save capitalism from the threats from socialism, communism, and greed. There are many villains that continually assail free markets, but these two normal guys show up and save the day.
The inspiration comes from my fond memories of Ronald Reagan and his views of economic freedom. Capitalism gives all of us an opportunity to make our own way and that gives us a chance at freedom.
How did you find Argyle Fox Publishing, and what convinced you that we were the right publisher for you?
I wanted to work with a publisher from Tennessee. I love my state and what it represents, and I thought a publisher from Tennessee would be a great fit. I searched for a publisher in Tennessee, and that’s how I found Argyle Fox Publishing.
Who is your target audience, and what do you hope readers get out of your book?
Free Market Man and Capitalist Boy is written for children, but I hope that the reader asks his parents questions. It gives the parents an opportunity to engage in conversations about economics that I feel most children are not getting, particularly in the various school systems where they learn.
You had a special collaborator create your illustrations. Tell us about that special person and how the process was working with her to bring your book to life visually.
Free Market Man would not be the same without the illustrations. My daughter who is a published author as well and a fantastic artist decided she would create the illustrations and the cover. Working with her was much easier because her office is down the hall, and we could meet and discuss all aspects of the story and the visual concepts that I had for each character. There is nothing better and more fulfilling than working on an exciting project with your children.
Now that your book is published, how will you measure whether it’s a success? What is your goal for your story?
I think in the current landscape, as long as Free Market Man and Capitalist Boy can help children and parents engage in the importance of financial literacy, that would be the measure of success.
What are you doing to market your book and let folks know it is available?
I talk about the story to anyone who will listen. That means a lot of letter writing, trying to get people in positions of power to read the book. I also use social media to promote the book and where I will be speaking. The hardest part of being a writer is the marketing side.
What feedback have you received so far on your book?
People that have read the book find it to be humorous and not preachy, which is the point.
What did you learn about the publishing process that surprised you?
After the book is in print, that is when the hard work begins.
What would you say to other writers who have a story but aren’t sure if it’s worth publishing?
I would say trust your characters and fight for them. They want their story told. Don’t abandon them. They need you.
Do you have other stories bouncing around in your head – perhaps more adventures with Free Market Man and Capitalist Boy? If so, can you give us a sneak preview of what’s next and when you plan to present it to the world?
There will be a second installment of Free Market Man and Capitalist Boy. This time the leader of Russia decides he wants to be an action hero, and his scheme involves taking over Dancy, the largest media empire in the world. He then uses that monopoly to brainwash the citizens of America and Free Market Man and Capitalist Boy must save the day.
Where can readers find you online?
I am on Instagram and Facebook, and those are the best places to interact.
Is there anything else the world should know about you or your writing?
I think the written word is a beautiful place where distinct worlds can be created and experienced over and over again. I have read The Count of Monte Cristo ten times, and I find it compelling each time that I read it. I hope the worlds that I create have that same lasting impact.
Now, that’s a goal worth pursuing. Here’s to making it happen!