Why Do You Write?

I'm ask the topic question a lot. I'm a guy who gets up every morning eager to get to the keyboard and get writing. I write because I love the craft.

I write as William Stanek and Robert Stanek. As a technology journalist, I've written for PC Magazine, Dr. Dobbs, TechNet Magazine and a variety of other leading magazines. As a technology writer, I've written for Simon & Schuster, Random House, Macmillan, Pearson, Microsoft, O'Reilly and other publishers. My many technical articles and technical books have helped millions of readers learn essential job skills and stay competitive.

I grew up in Wisconsin, saying we were poor is like saying dairy cows make milk. I loved school not only because I got to eat, but because I loved learning. The old schoolhouse at Jane’s elementary school, my first school, was built in 1917 and was the school my grandfather attended as a young man. My grandfather taught me so much about life and instilled in me the principals and values I carry to this day. I learned about caring for others, giving back to my community, and being true to one’s self.

After high school, I joined the military to see the world--and really did. I lived in Japan, toured Asia. I lived in Germany, toured Europe. I saw what hell is like in the Gulf War. And the lessons and experiences from all of this spill over into my writing like water over Niagara Falls.