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SA: I know it has. If for nothing else, I've established relationships with certain experts in their field who have helped me as editors. Word of mouth is still the best form of advertising. Hopefully, my personal responses have given my readers another reason to enjoy my work.

OH: Characters in your stories are often named after your fans. You also use some of your fans as editors and proofreaders of your work. Where did you get this idea of involving your fans so much?

SA: Started in my book THE TRENCH. First, I needed names of victims, so I used the names of critics of MEG. Once I started receiving e-mail from fans, I asked them to send me descriptions. Much easier for me, plus it gives the readers a sense of participation.

OH: You must be a very busy person. What is a typical day's writing like for you? How did you come by this routine? Was it just trial and error?

SA: First 2 hours spent answering e-mail. Writing till lunch. 30 minute break, then check e-mail again and write until fatigued. Usually around 5.

OH: How do you want to advance as a writer? Are you someone who wants success in terms of book sales? Or are you happier with being able to have the freedom to write what you want without worrying if it will be a commercial success?

SA: I am ambitious and competitive. I want to be the best I can be. I want to see my books at the top, and enjoy the rewards that come with that, while always giving back. My Adopt-An-Author program is one way I give back.

OH: You have set up a unique organization which encourages kids in school to read more and enjoy what they are reading. Where did you get the idea for this? Also, tell us a little bit about the organization.

SA: While a far cry from Romeo and Juliet, monster shark, doomsday, and submarine thrillers are very popular among students. Each day I receive dozens of heartfelt e-mails from teens in junior high and high-school who go out of their way to thank me. I always write back within a day. Most of these students "hated reading" until they opened the first chapter of MEG, and suddenly found themselves "hooked." As a result, many teachers now use my novels as required reading... to their students' delight. To assist teachers and students, I created the Adopt-an-Author program. The goal of the program is to offer a unique avenue for teenagers to:

1. Enjoy reading, something many students avoid like the plague.
2. Have direct access to an established, best-selling author, in order to encourage their own career choices.
3. Offer creative new avenues and opportunities for students to become more involved.
4. Have a "pen-pal" as an author. Sort of a "big-brother" who will encourage them academically.
5. To provide teachers with a "pool" of curriculum ideas, quizzes, and projects to make their lives easier. These materials can be downloaded on the interactive website at www.SteveAlten.com by clicking on the teacher/student icon. The program works.

OH: Tell us a little about your latest book?