Author Peter S. Rush on his new book "Wild World," growing up in Uniondale, and his November 4th event in Rockville Centre
A graduate of Brown University, author Peter S. Rush grew up in Uniondale. Although he is now the CEO of a global management firm, Rush spent years as a newspaper reporter, magazine editor, and a police officer. Rush's new book, Wild World, actually merges together the author's prior career paths as its protagonist Steve is a police officer originally from Long Island.
In celebration of Prior Manor Press' release of Wild World, Rush will be making an appearance at Rockville Centre's Turn Of The Corkscrew on Saturday, November 4th. Kicking off at noon, the event is scheduled to include both a reading and a signing. No Place Like Long Island caught up with Peter S. Rush to learn more about both Wild World and Rush's Nassau County roots.
How would you describe Wild World to someone who hasn't read the blurbs or the preview?
Peter S. Rush: It is a love story set amid the turmoil of the anti-war movement of the early 1970’s. It is a story of struggle between what is correct and what is right.
As the CEO of a global management firm, was it hard to make time to write a book?
Peter S. Rush: Yes, it was hard to find the time but I managed in hotel rooms. Airplanes and very early mornings.
Long Island factors into Wild World. Did you know all along when creating Steve that he grew up there?
Peter S. Rush: Having grown up on Long Island it was a natural setting. Plus Steve is a lacrosse player and in those days, lacrosse players only came from Long Island or Baltimore.
You will be appearing at Turn Of The Corkscrew on November 4th. Have you been to that store before?
Peter S. Rush: Yes, I have -- great friendly neighborhood bookstore. We need more of them.
What will you be doing at Turn Of The Corkscrew? Reading any of Wild World?
Peter S. Rush: I will be reading a short passage to provide context and I will be signing books. We are looking for a great turnout.
What is coming up for you career-wise?
Peter S. Rush: I expect to continue working for a few more years. I do have a first draft finished of a sequel to Wild World so I need the time to finish it.
Having grown up in Uniondale, was the Nassau Coliseum a big part of your upbringing?
Peter S. Rush: Actually, I predate the Coliseum. But Hofstra was a big draw as I was a neighborhood kid.
Do you still have family on the Island?
Peter S. Rush: Yes, I have a sister and brother-in-law and a nephew there, as well as lots of extended family. We come to Long Island often.
Is there anything you miss about living on Long Island?
Peter S. Rush: The beach. I grew up living for the beach, surfing and spending time from Long Beach to Gilgo.
Do you have a favorite restaurant on the Island?
Peter S. Rush: We go to Alias Smith & Jones in Oceanside often. And I can’t forget Borelli’s in East Meadow -- still great after all these years.
When not busy with work, how do you like to spend your free time?
Peter S. Rush: I like to stay active. Tennis is my game of choice -- paddle tennis in the winter -- traveling, reading and gardening.
Finally, Peter, any last words for the kids?
Peter S. Rush: Life is a fantastic journey. The only things you will regret are the things you have not tried. Go out and experience the world.
