I get my desire to read and my love of art from my father. My father was always either reading a book, drawing, or chalking.

The first book that I remember being really interesting to me was 'Watership Down' (yea, about the rabbits). I'm sensitive, okay?!?! That book kept me reading everything I could find about animals. Animals are cool (and smelly).

As I hit that special age of (you know) manhood, my tastes began to change. 'The Hobbit' was the beginning of the rest of my life. Tolkien, Donaldson, Heinlein, Moorecock. . . they allowed me to escape my deteriorating life. I would lay on Laguna Beach and fry (in more ways than one) while reading away. It's a miracle that I can remember any of it.

From there I read a book called 'The Stand' by (who else) Stephen King. Whoa! I couldn't get enough of his stuff; this guy was nuts! These books allowed me to really scare people with my twisted drawings and humor (sorry). Other faves of mine are Koontz & Rice ('Interview with the Vampire').

I still haven't grown up entirely. I spend much time & money on comics. This is such a great concept; Stories & killer artwork. My wife wonders how I keep track of so many different titles at once. Interest, Honey.

I also read GQ, so I don't look like an idiot; Muscle & Fitness, so I can keep all my limbs from falling off; and Money, because I need to pay for my comics & magazines.

My father taught me the importance of reading the newspaper, daily. Dad, I do read the 'Business' & 'Sports' section everyday.

Thanks Dad!