6/15/11 Inspirations: Jeffrey Stepakoff, author of "Fireworks Over Toccoa" and "The Orchard"

Inspirations: Jeffrey Stepakoff

 
Jeffrey Stepakoff has always been a man to watch when it comes to telling a story. As a “son of the South,” Jeffrey has learned his lessons well on this particular art.  The logistical course of his education also shows that he has another valuable characteristic – determination. He received his BA in Journalism at the

University of North Carolina, enrolled in the MFA program at Carnegie Mellon and within 24 hours after this graduation drove to Hollywood to pursue a career of writing for both the small and large screens. Soon afterward his name would be associated with such television series as “The Wonder Years,” “Sisters,” “Major Dad,” “Beauty & the Beast” and “Dawson’s Creek.”

Upon my first meeting with him, none of this impressed me that much. I knew some of the same people he did in both Los Angeles and Atlanta. Later, in

panel discussions and a speaking presentation, I watched his mannerisms, posture and general attitude toward those in the writing industry. I was impressed. In my notes, dating February 2010, I scrawled such words as “personable,” “humility” and “timidity.”   Maybe those who know Jeffrey Stepakoff better than I would disagree with the word “timidity,” as there was no obvious display of a lack of self confidence or hesitation.  However, I’m pretty sure there won’t be much of an argument against “humility.” One of the well-known “secrets” of success by those in the writing world is the personal characteristic of humility.  Many times this particular quality will spill over into an author’s manuscript characters as well - Jake Russo in Fireworks over Toccoa is a perfect example.

It was my pleasure to buy his first book the day it was released. And, there is “talk” of its movie adaptation – no surprise. With an upcoming release of his newest work, The Orchard, scheduled in just a few short days, Jeffrey Stepakoff will continue to be a writer worthy of watching. But, just as important as viewing the television episodes listing his name in the credits, reading his books or being mesmerized by the movie adaptations of his scripts, is the significance of listening to his shared words of encouragement for writers. They go like this:

“While a writing career certainly requires a commitment to the mastery of the craft, the most important thing is just writing. I think it’s critical that one makes time every day for story – the development of new ideas, the planning and construction of outlines, and of course, the execution.  Put in that time every day to write. That’s the best advice I can give!”

There’s a perfect example of his determination – without timidity – and certainly, inspirational.   - Anne Adams