Matt Cook is the author of Sabotage, which he wrote at 19 while an undergraduate at Stanford. There he also published two nonfiction books and cofounded a nonprofit dedicated to government transparency. A professional close-up magician trained at the Hollywood Magic Castle, he has performed in over 80 countries, and enjoys weaving exotic locales into his stories. Cook is now a doctoral student in Economics at Penn. He enjoys travel, scuba, and Latin dancing for fun.
- What is your writing routine?
The toughest part is the planning. I usually spend a few weeks brainstorming and doing research, and always find travel to be a muse. Next comes an extensive outline that will include a chapter-by-chapter chronology of events, and biographical material on each major character. Then I begin the first draft, and spend as many hours as possible in a quiet, cozy environment with a fireplace.
- Tell us about your current project.
At this point, all I can say is that it’s not a sequel to Sabotage. It has a new cast of characters and takes place in a different time. The research has been fascinating.
- Which writers, living or otherwise, would you host at a dinner party and why?
This question is tougher when you limit the size of the guest list. It would go on forever otherwise, so I’ll cap it at five.
(1) Richard Feynman, a quantum physicist with the remarkable ability to convey complex ideas using simple analogies.
(2) Oscar Wilde, who caused happiness wherever he went.
(3) Clive Cussler, who has experienced the adventures of his hero.
(4) Ken Follett, a master of dramatic tension.
(5) Aristotle, arguably the “father of logic.”
- What do you enjoy about your MWA membership?
Meeting people who are passionate about storytelling. Learning about their stories, and learning why they wrote them. An writer’s values come through in his or her stories. It is a joy meeting people who share not only an interest in writing, but also similar values.