Staten Island author, Chris Knight, recently self-published his first novel titled Past and Pending. The comedic-mystery about a runaway teenager who falls into a spiral of conspiracy and mystery is actually set on Staten Island.
Earlier today, we sat down with Chris who answered some questions about the book and it’s origins:
What was the inspiration for Past and Pending?
Past and Pending started as a short story that I spent too long writing. Eventually that short story became the backbone/backstory to what Past and Pending is now. That short story went from being a short story, to a short film, back to a short story, then turned into a screenplay. That screenplay was broken up into a ten episode mini series and then eventually reached the finished line as a book.
What is the book’s connection to Staten Island?
The story itself takes place in and around Staten Island. A lot of the locations are based off of real locations, some of the locations kept their actual, real life names. (Deninos). They say write what you know and I’ve lived here my entire life, so I know this place the best.
Who are your literary influences? Comedic influences?
How much time do you have? Overall, above everyone, Daniel Handler is reigning king on my bookshelves. His books changed my life. Fun fact: Past and Pending is laced with references to his books and I never expect anyone to find them all.
Among Daniel Handler, there’s J.K. Rowling, Arthur Conan Doyle, Frank Abagnale Jr., Bill Watterson. There’s too many to actually name here. I need to take a breath. 911.
What’s next for Chris Knight?
I’d like to think that this is just the beginning of Chris Knight. I have another book on the way that takes an entirely different narration and tone than Past and Pending, I was recently a writer on a web series that promises to be hilariously entertaining, and I have plans for a bank robbery. Scratch that last one, forget I ever said bank robbery. Bank robbery? What bank robbery?
You can support a local artist and buy a copy of Past and Pending on Amazon, here
or on Barnes and Noble, here
Follow Chris on Twitter, here
Chris is a communications professional with a passion for pop culture, media, and all things creative. He has a Bachelor’s degree in Communications with a specialization in Media Studies and has experience in running a pop-culture website, freelance writing, coaching, and speaking engagements. He has worked behind the scenes on music albums and co-founded a boutique web design and marketing firm. He is also an amateur photographer and musician. He is always looking for the next exciting project to dive into.
