Interview with Timoteo Tong, Author of Magic, Monsters and Me

What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Magic, Monsters and Me?

I was inspired to write my book when I was at a crossroad in my life and reflecting on my own experience as a teenager struggling with my identity, my dysfunctional family, and the usual trials and tribulations of growing up.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Magic, Monsters and Me, what would they be?

Under the Bridge for Elijah and Fall Into You for Austin.

What’s your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

Interestingly enough I write fantasy books but don’t actually read fantasy books. I usually read romance books!

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

So many! Guncle. The Crescentville Haunting, Husband Material…

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

When Austin and Elijah go to a bar and Austin, who’s pretty introverted, is not having fun at all and is forced to be there by Elijah. Everything terrible that can happen does!

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

I always write while listening to music. For deeper stuff I usually listen to music from growing up for inspiration. For lighter stuff I listen to pop or jazz.

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

Stay Magical, captures the essence of my book. We’re all magical in some way.

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

That anyone has what it takes inside to battle and win over the scariest monsters.