We recently connected with AJ Schenkman and have shared our conversation below.
AJ, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. So, one thing many business owners consider is donating a percentage of sales or profits to an organization or cause. We’d love to hear your thoughts and the story behind how and why you chose the cause or organization you donate to.
I am a school teacher. The most challenging time was during Covid when I was teaching remote. Many of my students went without and were food insecure. I had Patriots and Spies in Revolutionary New York coming out with Rowman and Littlefield. I decided to donate all the royalties to People’s Place in Kingston. It is a food pantry. It serves all of Ulster County, NY
AJ, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
Welcome to History made Seamless. It is the company that I created. It is a blog as well. It is history that is made engaging and interesting. I think it is summed up best in a review of my book Unexpected Bravery. “ Schenkman’s explanations are a boon for readers who are not fans of textbook history; instead, he tells individual stories without a lot dates-and-battles info. You get enough to anchor each tale — and with what you’ll learn, that’s really enough.
And yet, it’s not. This book may send you looking for more, because it’s eye-opening and well-told.”
I have been writing all my life since I was in 4th grade. My inspiration currently are my students and the questions they ask. I love teaching and learning from my students.
I am always looking for new opportunities as a writer. I would love to continue to teach but also write full time. Maybe a memoir
Or a book made into a series on Netflix? Hint hint.
Looking back, are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?
I found blogging late. I live it so much. It is called History is Seamless. The blog allows me to interact with other historians, authors and fans. It is just great.
What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?
I think what is driving my creative journey are my students. I teach 7th grade social studies. I have to keep it fresh and applicable to their lives. I also feel that I need to make it engaging in this time when I am competing with social media. Also, as my classroom becomes more diverse, I need to also expand those stories. They become his story, my story, her story and our story.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.ajschenkman.com/
- Instagram: @authorajschenman
- Facebook: Author AJ Schenkman
- Linkedin: Adam “a.j. Schenkman
- Other: https://historymadeseamless.wordpress.com/
Image Credits
Credits: FDR Presidential Library
Credits: Michelle O. Greco
Credits: Erik Gliedman