Author of the Week: Omar Tyree

A&RBC: How did you become a writer?

Omar: As a freshman at the University of Pittsburgh in 1987, I found out that I had a knack for communication, storytelling and a lot to say. So after getting an A in advanced English and taking a creative writing course, I was challenged by my counselor and peers to use my voice and gift to write books, and I accepted the challenge.

A&RBC: Where does your inspiration for your characters come from?

Omar: Real life is very interesting to me, and all characters are based off of real life for every author. So with each new book, the character is designed to make the given point about life.

A&RBC: What are you hoping readers take from your book?

Omar: With "The Traveler" series, I want readers to travel the world and really experience the human struggles and different lives that are out there abs the situations that humans are all forced to live through.

A&RBC: If you were to write a book about a controversial topic, what would it be?

Omar: The love of more than one woman or man. I just believe that the history of love shows how complicated it can be for all of us.

A&RBC: Most writers have a process or method for writing their books, what is yours?

Omar: Find the topic, do the research, write the book. It's really not that complicated for me. But I always start with the current event topics that I care the most about.

A&RBC: What is your favorite genre of books?

Omar: I don't have a favorite genre, I love and write and read them all.

A&RBC: Are you an avid or occasional reader?

Omar: I'm an avid reader, of course. I provided my professional consultation services to an aspiring author a few years ago who said that she didn't like to read much. Really? Well, how do you expect to be able to write much? That's like a person who says they want to run but don't like to walk. You can't do one well without using the other. Either way, you're still using your legs. Well, writing and reading both involve heavy thinking, so I find it very hard for a nonreader to think enough to write well. Reading gives you the practice of organized thought so that you can organize your own. So of course, this woman's writing was all over the place, but she didn't have a problem with that. Unfortunately for her, any organized reader would have a problem with it.

 A&RBC: What are two things you want your readers to know about you?

Omar: I have written 20 books and counting, and I love to discuss the topics that I write about, which to me are as important as the characters.

A&RBC: If you could interview one of your favorite authors, who would it be? Why?

Omar: Stephen King, because the dude is a certified writing genius. He is confident enough to write about the crazy ideas that all of us have but would never admit to.

A&RBC: What is or was your dream job?

Omar: I wanted to be a professional football player. That's why I went to Pitt to be a proud Panther on my way to the NFL.

A&RBC: What new projects are you working on?

Omar: "The Traveler" series, of course. After releasing "No Turning Back" as the series introduction in ebook in January, we will then publish the first traditional soft back book in the series, "Welcome to Dubai" in September/October.

A&RBC: Where can readers find you?

Omar: You can find me @ TheTravelerBooks.com, OmarTyree.com @OmarTyree on Twitter, Omar Tyree on Facebook or LinkedIn or just Google me.

About The Book

Gary Stevens is a American who travels the world in search of purpose, peace of mind, world culture and unconditional love. Skipping from continent to continent, this explorer can’t seem to keep his nose out of helping misfortunate victims. Gary is motivated to avenge the vicious murders of his mother and his best friend to random acts of terrorism. Through an inheritance of wealth, the guidance of a sexy and dangerous mentor, and a mysterious father he has never met, “The Traveler” transforms from a brash frat boy into a thoughtful man and a fearless hero, willing to eliminate anyone who stands in his way.

No Turning Back is the prequel to The Traveler and marks the launch of this thrilling new series, created by New York Times bestselling author and journalist, Omar Tyree. Book Two: Welcome to Dubai, launches in October.




"The Traveler: No Turning Back is a suspenseful yet mysterious book that will have readers spellbound until the end."
                                                                -Teresa Beasley, A&RBC Reviews