about the author

Eric Van Soest has a degree in directing from The University of California at Santa Barbara.  He has worked in theater, television, movies, music and has taught acting.  While at UCSB, he was also an Arts and Entertainment editor for the University’s newspaper.  “What I learned from my brief encounter with journalism, was that most writing is just another story telling vehicle.  The story is the most important component.”

“When I first began to envision The Dead Presidents Club, I wasn’t thinking about a book.  My theater background made me want to put this story into the context of a play or film.  I soon realized that with over 40 characters, this book would be the first step in laying the groundwork for any crossover to dramatic presentation. “

“I have always had a deep appreciation for history.  The true story of the American presidency without any fictional embellishment, is a great story in itself.  Now, imagine getting all these colorful individuals together in one place.”  

“History can empower us with hindsight that should inspire us to imagine a better world.”

When I started writing Looks can Be Deceiving, my intent was to write a collection of short stories that were conceptually connected to the title.  I wanted to explore a wide range of styles and genre in both serious and light stories.  The characters in these stories have evolved from the kinds of people and experiences common to all of us.  Their triumphs and flaws are a product of our human condition, fraught with the beauty and imperfections that resonate in all of us.