http://thelifeandtimesofwanda.blogspot.com/2013/04/a-bridge-apart-by-david-dipillo-review.html
http://www.prnewschannel.com/2012/04/05/man-discovers-self-worth-beyond-his-financial-trappings-in-new-novel/
http://www.bookideas.com/reviews/index.cfm?fuseaction=displayReview&id=7092
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5156777.David_DiPillo

A Christian man, DiPillo studied a variety of philosophical teachings and cultural psychologies in order to create this book. Without harping or preaching, he seeks to show how product-oriented American culture falsely equates self-worth with possessions, even if through mortgages and credit card debt, so that someone or thing actually owns us. A mix of symbolism and substance compacted into a short work, “A Bridge Apart” reads like a smooth fusion of a classic children’s fable and a standout work in the genre of mind, body and spirit.

“A Bridge Apart” is available for sale online at Amazon.com and other channels.

Author F.A.Q. (Frequently Asked Questions):

Why did you write, “A Bridge Apart?

Answer: The reason why I wrote “A Bridge Apart” was to show adults in a storybook-like fashion that the constant acquisition of “more” is not going to give them the feeling they need to feel. It’s the family, friends, and people in their lives that make life worth living. That is what is worth suffering for, working hard for, and sacrificing for. Not an expensive house, car, clothing, etc. The moment one removes this feeling of attachment, they bring themselves much closer to enlightenment and a much more fulfilled life.

How successful was your book, “A Bridge Apart”, when it was first published?

Answer: At first, when “A Bridge Apart” was initially published, it flew in under the radar. As a first time author, no one knew who I was and like many others, my book was easily buried under the title wave of the mainstream book industry. Slowly readers began to purchase my book and it began to gain some notoriety.

What made you want to write “Literary Turning Points™: A Bridge Apart” as a supplement to the original book?

Answer: As a result of the positive feedback I’ve received, I published a companion explaining even further the deeper meanings within the story. It turned out to be an awesome supplement for groups and classroom discussions. It truly brings all the book meanings and themes to light.

What book genre is “A Bridge Apart” listed under?

Answer: Originally, “A Bridge Apart” is listed in the “Mind, Body, Spirit” genre. However, inspired by the story, readers shared the book with their kids and from there things really took off! Kids loved it and I was shocked and delighted by the response it received!

When did you know that you had something great with your book “A Bridge Apart”?

Answer: When I was invited to speak at an elementary school in a neighboring state, it was one of the most surreal experiences of my life. I truly received a king’s welcome and was utterly amazed by how much the students loved my book! It was at that moment I knew unequivocally that my book was special.

What made the students feel so inspired during your visit?

Answer: Their little faces were dumb-founded when I told them that no one wanted to publish my book. I told them about all of the rejections I’ve received and how some of them were not very nice to say the least. I simply explained to them that when there is something you want in life, no matter how many people try to discourage you, we must remain focused and driven despite all that may be against us. It may not be written down on paper, but we all have a story to tell.

What would you say is the main theme of “A Bridge Apart”?

Answer: Truly, it’s all about knowing what really matters in life which is your friends and family. It was meant for adults, but children adore the story. It's about self enlightenment found through the eyes of the main character.

Why don’t you have a Facebook or Twitter page? It’s free and will greatly help out your book sales!

Answer: Yes, sales are critically important for a writer. It “floats the boat” and provides income as we work on new projects. However, since I’m starting to attract a very young crowd to my writings, I choose NOT to incorporate social networking as a direct means of generating revenue or means of promotion. The safety of my younger readers and fans is more important and is a subject I take seriously. This provides parents with peace of mind and keeps kids away from any unmonitored outside influences. The only social media I participate in is via LinkedIn because it has proven to be priceless for helping me find/expand my employment opportunities and keeping in touch with coworkers.

Has anything you’ve written ever been rejected?

Answer: When trying to break into the book industry it is extremely difficult to attract the attention of readers, agents, and publishers. The major publishers totally own the scene. First timers like me don’t really have a chance. I have a stack of rejection letters that has to be 2 inches thick, just for “A Bridge Apart” alone. It’s a part of being a writer I've learned to accept.

How long did it take you to publish “A Bridge Apart”?

Answer: Nearly 10 years.

What makes your book unique

Answer: The primary element that makes my book unique is its appeal to readers of all ages. Another thing that makes my book unique is the variety of messages encapsulated within the story that readers pick up and interpret within their own lives. I love it when people send me emails and say things like, “You know, your book really made me reflect on my own life and current situation.” It’s a great feeling as an author when readers have that “a-ha!” moment where they really “get it.” “It” being the message(s) I was trying to convey.

How do you feel about self-publishing, since you are an independent author?

Answer: In my opinion, there are two kinds of books in the world. Books that are for sale that people can buy, read, enjoy, and those that are not. This being the information age, many authors/musicians are starting to use self-publishing of their work in limited print runs and then contacting larger publishers with a sales pitch and a nice track record of proven sales. If signing up with a large distributor/publisher is the author's goal that is a solid way to attract positive attention. The larger publishers are also very busy with well-known celebrities, authors, and other persons of interest living in the public eye.

Why else do you think it is so difficult for an author to get the attention of larger publishers?

Answer: Even if an author's writing is outstanding, it's still very difficult to break into the publishing industry just due to time and budget limitations of any given publishing house. What fascinates me is how much awesome talent there is out in the world that never gets to see the light of day in film and literature! I've purchased and read countless independent books, watched independent movies and was many times in awe at how some masterpieces don't get the attention they deserve. Sometimes they receive the praise they deserve, but usually years later after publication. The old cliché has never been truer that we “shouldn't judge a book by its cover.”

What’s the hardest thing about being an author?