Here I am again, at the home of author Mike Copeland on the eve of the release of his second book, Alive and Chillin’ – More Sideways Views and Do You Know Who’s. Given that his first book, Alive and Kickin’ – Sideways Views From an Upright Guy only sold about 23 copies, I can’t imagine that this is terribly exciting news to anyone other than Mr. Copeland, and perhaps Eric Johnson, his editor at ALIVE Magazine, who also happens to be the President of ALIVE Book Publishing. ALIVE is the company distributing Mr. Copeland’s latest birdcage lining.
As the doorbell rings, I can only hope that the subject of this piece is asleep, not home or possibly even incarcerated. Alas, no such luck. Once Mike eventually does get around to finally opening the door, he gestures me in without speaking. His silence is odd given his narcissistic nature. I’m led into the same den/man cave that we met in almost two and a half years ago just prior to the release of his first book. The first book was panned by critics, but the pages made for wonderful padding in our dog’s crate right before she delivered her litter of puppies. By the scent in the room, Mr. Copeland has apparently given us drinking (Rebel Yell Bourbon) in favor of medicinal marijuana (San Simeon is my educated guess). I’m still not sure how I drew the short straw when it came to our monthly assignments at ALIVE Magazine, but not every pull of the slot machine is a jackpot.
MC: Thank you for having me to your home again Mike. How is this night different from where we were two years ago?
Mike: Please, call me Mr. Copeland. Well for one, it’s December, 2014 not July, 2012 so it’s colder. As an author, I’d like to think that I’m more worldly and mature. Not to mention, a much bigger celebrity in the Tri Valley. I did so many, three or four, book signings, that my name has become much more recognized in literary circles and book store restrooms. I’m huge at Art and Wine festivals along the I-680 corridor and Central Valley Blog conventions. So to answer your question….What was your question? Oh, I think it’s just different because it is. Next question.
MC: What makes you think that this book will sell better than your first book? It’s pretty competitive out there and your first effort didn’t set the world on fire.
Mike: Can you say, Merry Christmas/Feliz Navidad, Happy Hanukkah, it’s Kwanza Baby! Tis the season to be jolly and since it’s better to give than to receive what better way to say “I love you,” “I care about you,” or “quit annoying me,” than by giving the gift that keeps on giving? The holidays are a great time to release a book, because people are shopping for suitable gifts. My new book is a thrilling and provocative, OK – maybe more light-hearted and somewhat entertaining, non-fiction toilet tank distraction that is needed in this world. It was also written by someone people in this area know and love: Me! I’ll even sign it for you if you come by my house.
MC: How do you plan to market the new book differently than the first book?
Mike: Few people know that my first book actually sold over 500 copies, thank you very much. It’s probably safe to say that there’s a lot of buzz for my latest Pulitzer submission. I have a catchy title, right, so that will catch some eyes? See how I did that, using “catch” twice. Plus, there’s this new thing called Amazon and it’s not the river in Egypt. Secretly, I hope we can count on Santa to place a big order. He’s even bigger than Amazon when you think about it.
MC: How is this book, Alive and chillin’ similar or different from your first book, Alive and kickin’?
Mike: In my first book, I was kickin’ and in this book I’m chillin’. You’re not very observant are you? My first book was only humor lifestyle material from my first six years with ALVIE Magazine. This book is a collection of roughly 25 humor lifestyle essays from the last two years, along with over 25 personality profiles dating back to 2008. I’ve also included a few community-oriented pieces. That is some good sh……. Stuff.
MC: You chose to work with Eric Johnson at ALIVE Book Publishing again. How was that experience?
Mike: EJ knows me. Because of our history, he focuses on what buttons to push to bring out my brilliance. E. Johnny works with his authors in a kind and gentle, yet stern and firm manner, depending on the mood of his talent. Personally, I like to be coddled. Eazy Jezzy knows that I also do my best work in my pajamas and Crocs while wearing my lucky fedora. That attire might be frowned upon on at some of the reputable publishing houses, but not at ALIVE world headquarters. If I’m hungry, there’s Cup-0-Noodles, if I’m thirsty, there’s Kool-Aid, and if I’m backed-up (creatively) there’s medicinal incense. I respect that Lord Eric of Johnsonville works hard and leads by example.
MC: When you’re not writing, how do you spend your time?
Mike: Few people know that I’m an uncertified professional ballroom dancer; a sock puppet ventriloquist and I have narcolepsy. Needless to say, my days are pretty full. I’ve also been known to smuggle exotic reptiles into the country, but don’t say anything to anyone because I’m already on the TSA’s “No-Fly List.”
MC: You’ve always proclaimed yourself to be exceptionally witty and glib with a self-deprecating style of humor, who challenges you to be your best? Where do you draw inspiration?
Mike: OMG, stop flirting with me. The key to my success has been to surround myself with people more creative and intelligent than myself. At home, my wife and daughters contently needle and ridicule me so I need to be on my “A” game at all times. I’m intellectually stimulated and challenged by certain, but not all, of my guy friends (Rob, Stan, and Tom – you know who you are). I also communicate telepathically with local comedian, David Vanavermaete. He is one talented and very funny dude. Additionally, Giants broadcasters, Mike Krukow and Duane Kieper educate and entertain me from early March through late October. I don’t actually know them, but if I ever transition to radio, they would be my mentors. Finally, I’m a big fan of the television show, Modern Family. The writing is unappalled and that Cam is a hoot. I would say I draw inspiration from all my surroundings. You might say, I’m a student of Planet Earth University. Too bad I can’t find a PEU hoodie.
MC: Off topic, but didn’t I hear that you were recently involved in a traffic altercation?
Mike: Yes, your muckraking is correct. It was at Bagel Street Café in the Mercantile Livery and I graciously offered to sign someone’s November issue of ALIVE magazine. When that person didn’t appreciate my generous offer, I may have accidently bumped my forehead on hers. I’m embarrassed to admit that the incident was a case of “Roid Rage” Hemorrhoids not steroids. When those things flare up, I get awfully cantankerous. I don’t have any scientific evidence; however I’m relatively certain that Dr. David Banner’s Hulk episodes were the direct result of hemorrhoids. But I digress, fortunately the alleged victim and I settled out of court—the bocce ball court.
MC: Do you have any book signings or public appearances planned for your latest Toilet Tank offering?
Mike: As a first time author back in 2012, the ALIVE PR department booked me at every Rotary Club breakfast, Chamber of Commerce Mixer and Cabi Show in a ten-mile radius. Add to that, we did our share of Stella & Dot parties, Scout jamborees and Senior Center blood drives. My favorite public appearance was a Tinder meet and greet. As for bookstore signings, I had my biggest night at Read in Blackhawk Plaza. There must have been a crowd of six or seven people and at least half of them were there to support me, or use the restroom. I expect this time will be more of the same. Good times.
MC: When do you hit the road?
Mike: Tonight. I’m afraid you’ll have to leave now. I’m serious.
As I thanked Mike for his time, he awkwardly asked me if I stole anything while visiting his house. It almost felt like he was frisking me when he gave me a “bro” hug as I was departing. Like I stated at the end of my first profile piece on Mr. Copeland back in the summer of 2012, for an odd fellow he does possess some talent. I actually enjoyed most of his offerings in his new book and found the content somewhat therapeutic while doing my business in the bathroom. I do feel compelled to support our local talent and hope the readers will do the same. Good luck Mike.
For more information on Mike Copeland’s new book, Alive and Chillin’ – More Sidways Views and Do You Know Who’s contact the Alive Media office in Alamo.
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