Episode 112: James Patterson

5 Questions With Dan Schawbel

My guest today is one of the bestselling authors of all time, James Patterson. Patterson has written 147 novels since 1976. He has had 114 New York Times bestselling novels and holds The New York Times record for most #1 New York Times bestsellers by a single author, a total of 67, which is also a Guinness World Record. But, what he’s most known for is his enduring fictional characters like Alex Cross and Michael Bennett. I caught up with James to learn how he became a prolific author, his connection to historical figures like John Lennon, his writing approach, and why he cares so much about childhood education for this podcast episode.

The 5 questions I ask in this episode:

1. What would you say the biggest turning point in your life was that led to your success at an ad agency and as a bestselling author?
2. You’ve written about historical figures such as your recent books about John Lennon, The Kennedy’s, and Muhammad Ali, and even collaborated with former U.S. President Bill Clinton. Why are you so fascinated with their lives and how have you told their stories in your own unique way?
3. How do you decide on your approach to writing each book and which collaborators will be the best fit for each genre and audience?
4. You’ve donated to libraries, classrooms, and indie bookstores. Why is childhood education the most important cause that you champion?
5. What is your best piece of career advice?

Follow James’s journey:

• Website
• Book
• Instagram
• Facebook
• Twitter