Diane Kozak

The Skinny on Author Diane Kozak and Her Riveting New Novel,

Full Circle 911

In Spring 2008, Sunpiper Media Publishing will be releasing the first, of what we’re sure will be many, hard-hitting novel by Diane Kozak entitled, Full Circle 911. Before the book is released, we decided to sit down with the former credit union CEO to see what made her tick and how this magnificent and intrinsic tale of our tumultuous world and the hope we all seek.

ANM: This is an old cliché; however, tell us who exactly is Diane Kozak?
DK: This is a really tough question, however, I think the best way to describe Diane Kozak is that she’s a product of the Great American Dream. My life started in a typical American family in a typical American town, learning the values of being a good and hard-working person. Being a determined dreamer with an optimistic nature and her own healthy share of good luck, I managed to enjoy many successes in my personal and professional life. I’m the proof that the Great American Dream is still alive and well.

ANM: So, how long have you been writing?
DK: I started writing fiction about four years ago and I’ve been writing (and re-writing) ever since.

ANM: Has the dream of writing what you’ve always aspired to do?
DK: It’s always what I’ve dreamed of doing in the proverbial – someday.

ANM: Why in the world would you step down as a CEO of a major financial institution to journey into writing?
DK: I’ve been asked this so many times and honestly, I’m still not sure how to answer it. I left my career because I could afford to pursue my dream of writing. After losing both of my beloved parents within a nine month time period, I came to realize just how precious life is. While I was taking care of them in their final weeks and months, I got my head out of the financial world rat race long enough to do some soul searching. I came to realize that the power and money I had earned in my career didn’t mean as much to me as pursuing my dreams. I also came to realize that at the end of life, no one wants to look back and say – I wish I had done this or that. So I traded in my business suits and luxurious corner office for the coveted sweatshirt, dining room table and a computer. And you know what? When my day comes I’ll look back and say – I’m glad I followed my dreams - and this will be a priceless feeling.

ANM: Where did you come up with the name “Full Circle 911”?
DK: Well, I have to give that credit to my husband. When I explained the story to him, he just seemed to come up with it.

ANM: Who will benefit most from this book and what should people know about “Full Circle 911”?
DK: I wrote the book with young adults in mind. The story and the images are expressed from the eyes of a teenage girl who lives in a typical teenager world. As I continued to write, however, the story evolved into a book for Americans of all different ages. What I want the reader to know is that they need to understand what is happening in this world and how it does and will impact their lives. What happened on 9/11 was real and what happens with the War on Terror is just as real. These events have and will continue to change the United States and each and every American – whether we like it or not. The young people of today are the leaders of tomorrow and they need to experience their piece of tomorrow’s history. This means they’ve got to take an interest in the world around them. I’m hoping that this book captures their attention and peaks their worldly curiosity.

ANM: Why is this story so important for you to write?
DK: I’m a true red, white and blue patriot! I believe that every American is responsible for protecting this country in any and every way they can. Some people join the military, others become politicians and some work in our judicial system. These are all admirable patriotic careers and I’m grateful to every person who is part of them. But being a patriot isn’t just about a job or political leanings or voting - sometimes it’s about being in a place and time where you know in your heart you need to stand up for America. This could be as simple as teaching a child the Pledge of Allegiance or writing a patriotic themed book. Nevertheless, it could also be about fighting our enemies when you least expect to be called to do so. This book is an important reminder to all of us that America is worth fighting for and that terrorism makes each of us her potential defender.

ANM: Once the book is completed and the reader has reached the back cover, what should they take with them?
DK: I want them to remember that in today’s world, not all wars are fought on battlefields. I want then to realize that a hero lives inside each and every one of us. Because the terrorism of today is tightly interwoven with religion, I deliberately included Christians, Muslims and a Jewish character in the story. I want the reader to come away thinking about how we’re not divided by different faiths or backgrounds, but instead we’re united as Americans. We can’t, as a people, allow terrorism to change that.

ANM: Well, not that Full Circle 911 is completed and going to print, what is next on the horizon for Diane Kozak?
DK: I’m writing a sequel book called – “Exposing Eurabia.” Of course, I hope and pray that I’ll get this one published, too. I’m also planning to be out promoting “Full Circle 911”, which will be an adventure in and of itself!

Author News Media wishes much success for “Full Circle 911” and Diane Kozak and we hope to sit and talk to her on the release of her next novel. Search for Full Circle 911 on bookshelves and on the Internet in March 2008.