Imagine a time when children played “guns” without raising an eyebrow, engaged in crab-apple wars, and shot tennis-ball cannons at each other. This was Ken Magill’s childhood, one of unbridled freedom, where summer mornings led to mysterious adventures with the stay-at-home moms blissfully unaware of their escapades. This nostalgic backdrop sets the stage for Magill’s memoir, There, He’s Crying, a piece that effortlessly blends the comedy, sweetness, and uncomfortable moments of life. In this interview, we get a deeper look into the pages of Magill’s life, learning more about his writing techniques and the impact his memoir has had.
How did you navigate the balance between humor and emotionally charged moments? Share any anecdotes you may have from the creation of your memoir as well.
I tend to find the humor in most situations. So it should come as no surprise that humor would be interwoven into my memoir, even in some of the sad or disturbing parts. Writing this memoir wasn’t really about maintaining a balance between humor and emotionally charged moments so much as it was just the way I tend to think.
I have little patience for self-pity and believe life tends to go largely the way you handle it. My overall life philosophy is: Appreciate the blessings and understand when something bad happens others are facing much more difficult challenges.
Explore the role of humor in memoirs and its impact on readers. How did your use of humor contribute to the overall storytelling experience in There, He’s Crying?
My use of humor in writing really developed in my two-plus decades as a columnist and reporter in the digital-marketing trades. As a writer focused on Internet-marketing issues, I had a lot of highly complicated concepts to explain. I found that by using humor, I could get readers to push through topics that otherwise might make their eyes glaze over. Multiple times during my career, readers said: “You made me laugh out loud and when I was done laughing, I realized I had learned something.” It was the highest compliment I could imagine getting.
I naturally took the same approach to writing There, He’s Crying. In it, I cover some uncomfortable subject matter. By interjecting humor, I hope I made it easier to digest.
What is the significance of the book’s title and cover design? How do these elements capture the essence of the memoir and entice readers?
The cigar and martini on the cover of There, He’s Crying signify it’s written by a guy who does guy things and has guy habits. The red signifies a certain amount of pain. The title font is appropriately jarring because the book is jarring in spots. Taken as a whole, the cover lets readers know there will be a certain amount of so-called “triggering” (I hate that word) content for some.
Showcase some reader reviews and testimonials about There, He’s Crying. Discuss the impact the memoir has had on readers and their varied reactions.
1. A raw and poignant journey through life’s crucible
Ken Magill’s memoir, There, He’s Crying, offers readers an unfiltered and emotionally charged exploration of the author’s life. In this deeply personal narrative, Magill navigates through the complexities of his experiences with a raw honesty that resonates on every page. The memoir delves into the profound highs and lows that shape Magill’s journey, laying bare the vulnerabilities and triumphs that define his existence. Magill’s writing style is both engaging and poignant, drawing readers into his world with vivid and evocative prose.
The title, There, He’s Crying, serves as a powerful reflection of the emotional landscape within the memoir. Magill courageously exposes moments of vulnerability, sorrow, and joy, inviting readers to witness the depths of his experiences. The strength of Magill’s storytelling lies in its relatability; readers will find echoes of their own struggles and victories mirrored in the pages of this memoir. From poignant reflections on personal growth to candid examinations of relationships, Magill’s narrative resonates on a universal level.
There, He’s Crying is not merely a recounting of events; it’s an invitation to empathize with the human condition. Magill’s willingness to confront difficult truths and share them with the world creates a profound connection between author and reader.
2. A compelling read for a diverse audience seeking a blend of introspection and entertainment.
There, He’s Crying: A Memoir is a captivating journey through the author’s life, skillfully blending humor, warmth, and moments of unease.
Ken Magill’s narrative style is both engaging and evocative, offering a unique perspective on family dynamics and personal growth. The memoir navigates through various themes, including resilience, love, and the complexities of making life-altering decisions. Magill’s storytelling is poignant, leaving readers with a mix of laughter, heartwarming reflections, and occasional discomfort. The book is likely to resonate with those who appreciate memoirs that seamlessly intertwine humor and emotion, exploring the intricate nuances of relationships. With its relatable themes and well-crafted storytelling, There, He’s Crying is a compelling read for a diverse audience seeking a blend of introspection and entertainment.
3. A good read
The book There, He’s Crying by Ken Magill is a heartfelt and moving work that takes us through the author’s life, from childhood to adulthood, as he reflects on pivotal experiences that shaped his identity. In this context, his father, a complex and charismatic man, leaves an indelible mark on his life, providing him with the strength to face future challenges. It is easy to become part of this story and put yourself in the shoes of the protagonist. The story is intense and entertaining. It becomes an intimate journey through the author’s life. Weaving funny anecdotes, moving moments and deep reflections on acceptance, love and adaptation to the complexities of modern life. There, He’s Crying is a thought provoking read about a journey toward authenticity and mutual understanding.
What was your reaction to your reviews?
Readers were clearly touched when they were supposed to be, and laughed where appropriate. In a world where social media has polluted so much of human interaction, the reviews for There, He’s Crying demonstrate that book readers are insightful, compassionate and empathetic. They also clearly appreciate candidness and honesty.
Do you have any writing tips, insights or advice for aspiring memoirists looking to infuse humor and depth into their own stories?
Many of the anecdotes in There, He’s Crying are stories I have told for most of my life. I know they resonate because I’ve had so many people react to them in person. One thing I hope comes through loud and clear is I don’t take myself too seriously. And I never wallow in self-pity. I don’t try and present myself as wiser than I am. I try and present myself a just a guy pushing through issues like everyone else.
My advice is to write conversationally. Just tell your story. I contend everyone has an interesting story to tell. Write what shaped you into who you are. Write with an eye toward relating to readers and helping them see themselves in some of the situations. Above all, be candid. Readers respect and appreciate honesty.
Lastly, don’t ever use a dollar word when a nickel word will do. The only author I have read who uses complicated words successfully is Pat Conroy. But face it, we’re not Pat Conroy.
Find the Author
There, He’s Crying: A Memoir
Ken Magill grew up in a time where kids played “guns” all day and no one batted an eye. They had crab-apple wars and shot tennis-ball cannons at each other. In summer, they went out in the morning and 
their mostly stay-at-home moms had no idea where they went or what they were doing.
Magill’s mercurial, violent, loving, and hilarious father was a vicious debater and a take-no-prisoners competitor who helped him develop the strength to overcome challenges as an adult.
There, He’s Crying is alternately laugh-out-loud funny, heart-warming and disturbing.
A gripping, first-hand account of the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center will make you feel like you’re there.
Magill, a cigar-smoking, martini-drinking, gun-enthusiast, demonstrates love and sacrifice for a son who has declared himself a transgender woman. The email exchange between the two who clearly love one another but are 180-degrees apart will make this book worth your time.
Ultimately, There, He’s Crying is about knowing when to make life-altering decisions and dive into the unknown.
