Questions and Answers

Q: Okay, after years of traveling as cheaply as possible, why the splurge on a luxury cruise?
L.H. Livingston, MT

A: In part, we were celebrating the completion of Don’s book about the life of Senator Al Simpson. Even though it won’t be in print until September, the five year process of completing the text was completed in January 2011. Besides, we have always wanted to do this. We may never be able to afford it again, but it was wonderful once.

Q: You have been “working on” your new expedition headquarters in Montana for more than a year. Is it done yet?
O.W. Indianapolis, IN

A: Almost! Although we’ve been saying that for months. In February 2011 the only items remaining were floor sanding, wall painting, door hanging and finishing up the master bathroom. We’ve had a full time custom building working for us nearly 14 months. His work is spectacular, but we are ready to get this behind us.

Q: This Simpson book. Didn’t you work for him?
I.W. Canton, Ohio

A: Yes, for 18 years. And I have known him more than a half-century. But I assure you, this 488 page book is no puff piece. To maintain the book's credibility, and my own, I focused on the low times in his life, and his mistakes, in the same way I covered his accomplishments. The core of this book comes from his private diary, which contains thousands of quotes and descriptions of events in privileged places, such as the Oval Office in the White House.

Q: How are sales going?
T.W. Billings, MT

A: Great! Better than I dreamed. We’ve set a record for initial sales by the University of Oklahoma Press, and top the sales chart. Reviews are great and we expect continued sales growth.

The book is available -- with the signatures of both the author and the subject -- at www.senatoralsimpson.com.