I am going to use my real name, Max, in my upcoming book. This marks a significant shift in my writing. I’m killing off J. Peters, my pen name. J. Peters has been a part of my authorial identity for over a decade.

I am stepping into a new chapter, literally. In this new work, J. Peters meets his literary demise. I wanted to open the door to a new genre. Using my real name signifies a personal and professional milestone.

The Birth and Life of J. Peters

J. Peters separated my personal identity from my writing. To date, I’ve crafted a memoir. Through this pen name, I’ve connected with readers of mental health memoirs.

As with all things in life, change is inevitable. My writing is also evolving. This transformation requires a bold step: saying goodbye to J. Peters and embracing my real name, Max, as I venture into the world of creative nonfiction.

The Decision to Kill Off J. Peters

The decision to “kill off” J. Peters was not made lightly. I want to breathe new life into my storytelling. I want to challenge myself and create fresh, imaginative worlds that captivate readers in new and unexpected ways. This shift allows me to be truly authentic and bring a more personal touch to my writing.

J. Peters will meet a symbolic end at a location of personal significance: Bronx River Rd by the Mount Vernon West Train Station. This setting serves as a backdrop for the transition and as a catalyst for the new direction I wish to take. This narrative choice allows me to honor the legacy of J. Peters. It also paves the way for a new chapter in my writing.

Embracing Creative Nonfiction

Transitioning into creative nonfiction offers a world of possibilities. It allows me to weave together fact and narrative, blending real-life experiences with storytelling techniques that engage and inspire. This shift opens doors to explore the nuances of real life, craft compelling narratives, and connect with readers on a deeper level.

I’m letting go of the strict adherence to biography as found in a memoir. By embracing creative nonfiction, I can explore themes and ideas with more flexibility and creativity, capturing the essence of experiences rather than being confined by the linear structure of traditional biography.

In my upcoming book, I plan to delve into the complexities of identity, resilience, and transformation. This work will include rich, immersive storytelling that encourages reflecting. Expect more dialogue, character exploration, and narrative twists that invite readers into a deeper conversation with the text.

Engaging with Readers

This transition also impacts how I engage with you, my readers. Using my real name, Max, fosters a more intimate connection, allowing me to share my thoughts and insights with greater authenticity. I want to engage with readers on a more personal level, whether through book signings, discussions, or online interactions.

I am excited to challenge conventional norms, delve into the intricacies of human experience, and blur the lines between reality and imagination. Creative nonfiction offers a canvas to paint with broader strokes, inviting readers to embark on journeys that are as unpredictable as they are enlightening.

A New Chapter

As I close the chapter on J. Peters, I am filled with gratitude for the support and connection I’ve shared with my readers. Your encouragement has been a driving force in my journey, and I am eager to bring you along as I venture into this new creative landscape.