JOE GILLIS PRESS KIT

ABOUT

JOE GILLIS

Joe Gillis, known for his extensive experience in the film and television industry, brings together his passion for technology, comic books, and science in the exhilarating post-apocalyptic tale: Post-Apocalyptic Joe in a Cinematic Wasteland. Drawing inspiration from his own unique career journey, Gillis infuses the narrative with his love for movies and the intriguing possibility of a future where cinema and survival intertwine.

CONTACT

916-246-6188

media@joegillis.com

1618 Alhambra Blvd #161705
Sacramento, CA 95816

PHOTOS

TOPICS

Overcoming Hearing Challenges to Become a Writer 
Despite struggling with what appears to be auditory processing disorder and nearly failing English throughout school, the author persevered to become a published writer. This journey offers inspiration to those facing similar obstacles.
From Movie Theater Manager to Author: How Early Career Experiences Shape Your Writing 
The author’s experience running a movie theater and video store for nearly a decade influenced their storytelling and cinematic references throughout the narrative.
Harnessing Personal Medical Challenges in Fiction
 The author’s experience with sarcoidosis and injuries influenced the story’s approach to medicine, healing, and physical limitations in the post-apocalyptic setting.
Bringing Humor to the Apocalypse: The Balance of Comedy and Horror 
The story maintains humorous elements despite its dire circumstances. Learn techniques for maintaining this delicate balance without undermining tension.
Crafting a Unique Clone Dynamic: The Psychology of Multiple Selves 
The author created distinct personalities for each clone while maintaining their common origin, presenting a fresh take on the clone trope in science fiction.
The Evolution from ‘Clone Alone’ to ‘Post-Apocalyptic Joe’ 
The author’s original concept evolved significantly from a COVID-era story about cloning to the current post-apocalyptic tale. This journey reveals key insights into how ideas transform through the creative process.
The Psychology of Isolation: Writing Bally the Tennis Ball 
Explore the psychological aspects of isolation that inspired the creation of Bally, including influences from Cast Away and coping mechanisms for loneliness.
Building Your Underground Bunker: Research Methods for Writers 
The author conducted extensive research on Titan I missile complexes, radiation effects, and survivalist techniques. Discover practical approaches to researching unfamiliar topics.
Creating Memorable Fight Scenes with Improvised Weapons
 The morgue weapons sequence showcases creativity in action-scene development. The author actually built and tested these makeshift weapons, including the claw gloves, for authenticity.
The Art of the Chapter Cliffhanger in Serial Fiction
The story employs effective chapter endings that keep readers engaged. Explore techniques for crafting compelling cliffhangers without frustrating readers.

SAMPLE INTERVIEW QUESTIONS

Writing

When did you first discover your passion for writing?
What sparked the idea for this book?
You wrote about your hearing loss and struggles with English classes in your Behind the Page. What made you decide to read the audiobooks yourself despite those struggles
You also mentioned being in special education for English. Did your early language difficulties influence your storytelling approach today?
You had to research everything from rat aggression to horse-fly biology. How deep down the rabbit hole (or rat hole?) did you go?
What kind of research surprised you most?
Why did you choose to go with a serial format for Post-Apocalyptic Joe in a Cinematic Wasteland?

Post-Apocalyptic Joe in a Cinematic Wasteland

You said Joe’s outfit was born from a Mad Max-meets-Little Shop of Horrors kinetic sculpture race. How did creating that costume shape the tone or personality of Joe in the series?
You mention that Post-Apocalyptic Joe is both you and not you. What boundaries did you consciously set between your real self and the fictional Joe when writing the series?
Post-Apocalyptic Joe’s call sign, Kilo November Six Papa Foxtrot Alpha, is actually yours. What inspired you to bring your real amateur radio background into the story?
There’s a scene in the book where Joe takes down a state wrestling champ in a… less than glamorous way. Did that really happen?
Okay, let’s talk about the morgue weapons. Did you actually test real autopsy tools to prep for it?

Beautifully Dead

You followed up your quirky sci-fi comedy with a serious paranormal romance. Why the switch?
Did Beautifully Dead really come about because your co-author declared she could make zombies sexy?
Your co-author lives in Italy and you’re in the United States. How does that work?
What made you guys want to set your zombie love story in the Civil War?
Where can people read it?