“I hope readers ask themselves whether their time is better spent judging the rest of the world or focusing on their own game.”
– SS Turner
At times, judgment often takes precedence over understanding. This is the poignant reminder from SS Turner’s novel, The Connection Game, the BREW Book Excellence Award New Book of the Year 2023 title holder and the BREW Readers’ Choice Award Book of the Month winner for December 2022. With a narrative that transcends traditional boundaries, Turner’s work challenges individuals to reassess their perspectives and priorities. Through a blend of humour, wisdom, and perceptiveness, The Connection Game invites readers on a journey of self-discovery and introspection.
Benny Basilworth, the central character in The Connection Game, epitomises this theme of self-reflection. Despite his extraordinary intellect, Benny finds himself grappling with destitution and societal pressures, confined to a basement apartment with limited visibility of the world outside. It is from this vantage point that Benny takes on a journey of self-discovery and forges connections that challenge conventional norms and perceptions.
In this exclusive interview with SS Turner, the Australian author sheds light on the underlying themes and messages embedded within The Connection Game. Turner reflects on the significance of self-reflection in today’s society, emphasising the need to prioritise personal growth amidst the noise of external judgment.
Read further to know his insights.
SM: Congratulations on winning BREW book awards! Can you share how your book highlights important themes or issues?
SST: Thank you!
The Connection Game is the story of Benny Basilworth and his family who believe bad things are happening outside their window. They find themselves living in a basement flat from which their only view is of the passing feet on the street above.
The novel addresses a number of themes including humans’ tendency to judge one another based on our own limited perspective, and the nature of truth in a post-truth world.
SM: Your book has been recognised for its excellence when it won two (2) BREW book awards. How do you hope this recognition will help amplify the message or themes of your work?
SST: As a relatively unknown author I’m appreciative of the BREW award’s help at boosting my profile by hopefully bringing more readers to The Connection Game, thereby amplifying the impact of the novel’s messages and themes.
SM: Your book stood out among many others to win this prestigious award. What do you believe sets your work apart in terms of addressing significant topics?
SST: I know most authors think their work is different so you may want to take my answer with a grain of salt.
I believe The Connection Game is unique in the way it delves deep into the nature of truth and the way many of us are judging others from our limited perspective of the outside world. I’ve also been told that voice of the narrator Belinda Basilworth is particularly memorable, as is the character of her genius husband Benny.
Every book aims to showcase impactful stories or themes that resonate with readers.
SM: How do you think your book accomplishes its goal?
SST: That’s a great question. Based on the feedback I’ve received, The Connection Game is a story which stays with readers after they’ve finished reading it and inspires them to ask questions about their own place in the world.
SM: Can you discuss the key messages or themes in your book that you believe are particularly relevant in today’s society?
SST: Many readers are drawing the analogy between the way the Basilworths watch the passing feet on the street above and the way people judge others through social media and the digital world in general. I think it’s a valid comparison which makes the story particularly relevant.
SM: How do you plan to continue engaging with readers and promoting discussions around the topics explored in your book as a BREW Book Award winner?
SST: I’m open-minded on that front. Interviews like this one are a great way to connect, so thank you. I’m all about saying yes to opportunities like this to connect with readers.
SM: What do you hope readers will take away from your book after reading it?
SST: I hope readers ask themselves whether their time is better spent judging the rest of the world or focusing on their own game.
SM: A book is potent when it encourages meaningful dialogue and reflection. How do you think your book inspires readers to engage with important issues and ideas?
SST: Whenever I’ve presented to a group about The Connection Game, the dialogue and questions have been epic. It’s a story which inspires readers and book clubs to ask big questions about the modern world and the way we’re all living.
SM: In what ways do you envision your book making a lasting impact or contributing to positive change in the literary landscape or society as a whole?
SST: I’d love for the book to find itself in the hands of lots of lovely readers who enjoy suspenseful psychological thrillers that ask big questions. Beyond that, any longer-term literary legacy for this book is unpredictable icing on the cake.
SM: As a BREW book award winner, what advice would you give to aspiring authors who hope to create impactful and thought-provoking work?
SST: Your best writing comes from stories which you connect with at deeper level, so my best advice is to hone your craft by writing stories that really matter to you.
SM: Do you have any message, news, or announcement to share to our readers?
SST: I’m launching my third novel Golden in June.
Golden is the story of a man who learns to listen to his dog while he’s trying to solve the mysteries of his life and the strange community, he finds himself living within.
Here’s the novel’s blurb: “SS Turner weaves a tale of adventure with twists and surprises, including Mia, a golden retriever with extraordinary communication skills. If you’ve ever wondered what your dog is thinking, then Golden is a must-read!”
According to Gregory Berns, author of How Dogs Love Us, “Readers who enjoyed The Connection Game‘s surprising and suspenseful storyline are likely to enjoy this one, as are readers who enjoy stories which make them laugh and cry.”
On a personal note, it’s a special story for me as it stars Mia, my golden retriever who died three years ago. She was such a special dog so I’m overjoyed at the prospect she may live on in the pages of Golden. 🔆
“Your best writing comes from stories which you connect with at deeper level, so my best advice is to hone your craft by writing stories that really matter to you.”
– SS Turner
Click here to get a copy of The Connection Game by SS Turner.
Get a copy of Secrets of a River Swimmer by SS Turner by clicking here.
To nominate or to know more about the BREW Book, Blog, and Poetry Awards, click here.
How about you? How do you relate to the idea of focusing on your own game rather than judging the world around you? Have you experienced moments of profound self-discovery that have reshaped your perspective on life? Share your reflections and insights below!
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