Interview with Rich Leder, Author of Extraterrestrial Noir

What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Extraterrestrial Noir?

I have a long Hollywood history, which has forged in me an unyielding connection to high-concept, causally motivated storytelling. So the idea of mashing together dark comedy, science fiction, film noir, and suburban family drama—with the tagline: You have never met an alien like this one—seemed like a whiplash idea when it flash-banged into my brain. Turned out to be just that, I’m happy to say.

What’s your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

Let’s tackle this by mentioning that I’m currently re-reading everything by Vonnegut, everything by Palahniuk, and everything by Robbins. I’ve been reading some Elmore Leonard too, and some Jasper Fforde. And let’s not forget Christopher Moore—heavens no. Or Bradbury. Or Westlake. Whatever genres you think those guys are writing, that’s what I like to read.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

Recently finished Cowgirls, Still Life, and Jitterbug by Robbins. Just read Galapagos by Vonnegut. In the middle of Bluebeard by Vonnegut. Reading Red Side Story by Fforde next. Maybe Cat’s Cradle by Vonnegut after that.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

Every scene with my protagonist, Mike, the super-genius daughter of Maggie and Connie Devine. Those first scenes when the extraterrestrial shape-shifts. All the crazy crime scenes. The massive shootout in Alpine. The zero-gravity finale. Honestly, I had a blast writing all the scenes. So what? I often make myself laugh out loud, gasp, cry, or sit on the edge of my seat. What writer doesn’t?

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

No quirky writing habits. I’m pretty good at getting in the zone. No, wait—I can think of one. I often read my characters’ dialogue out loud, with whatever emotional zeal the moment demands from that character. When they were little and living at home, my kids would stand at my office door and say things like, “There’s something wrong with you, Daddy.” Maybe they were right. Yes, they were definitely right.

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

Live by, no. But I have a mantra that has guided me throughout my decades-long career, which I have shared with many of my writing students: “Write anyway.” Those two words have saved me more times than I can count.

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

Great question. I want readers to remember how much fun I had reading—how easy and enjoyable it was to read Extraterrestrial Noir or any of my books.

Rich Leder is the author of the new book, Extraterrestrial Noir

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