By Evan Wechman

Anthony Segarra is a family man who happens to be an author. He has been telling stories for most of his life, and his love of family has extended to his creative side.

Though Segarra grew up in New York City, he now resides in Hackettstown. On Sept. 26, he will speak at the Hackettstown Library about his new novel, “Creator.” This is the second book in his “Guardians of Life Series,” which follows “Destroyer.”

“Creator” is aimed at readers who love the fantasy genre, and Segarra hopes it will build on the success of the first novel. 

 “I develop a world political era, a place that is with its in its own history, cultures, mythology, and mysteries, and “Destroyer” was the beginning of bringing in that world to life, and “Creator” is the continuation sequel to “Destroyer” where “Destroyer” follows James Lander, an ordinary young man whose life becomes intertwined with an ancient conflict that stretches across multiple worlds,” Segarra said. “It’s a fantasy adventure that’s filled with mystery, an emotional roller coaster, and discussed with discovery that grows into every chapter.”

For Segarra, though he has a full-time job utilizing his MBA from Centenary University, he remains dedicated to his writing as well. He has always entertained his family with stories, and loves to combine his passion for storytelling with his love for his family.

He recalls the terrific experience that resulted in his first publication, while he was studying as an undergraduate.

“I started writing when I was taking my theology class at Fordham University. I wrote my first poem there, which has been published at Fordham University, and I was told it was very inspiring for the theology class, and they wanted me to copyright it, which I did, and that’s something that grew on me from years of enjoying the lore that I started to build this culture.”

The author not only draws inspiration from his family when crafting his stories, but much of his personal life sparks his creativity as well. 

“I write a lot from my personal experience, especially growing up in New York City, in the Bronx in the 1970s,” Segarra said. “A lot of my experiences that you will find in “Destroyer,” specifically that leads up to “Creator,” comes from friends and family, and the interaction of the town, it all comes from experiences that I went through.”

In particular, Segarra finds both material and creativity from his parents, who are both hearing impaired. He thinks in the future, it might be a worthwhile project to write a book based on his life and particularly his connection with his parents. In the “Guardians of Life Series,” there is a discussion of communication and how it relates to hearing-impaired communities.

In the spirit of family, his daughter, Caitlin Segarra, illustrated the covers for the series. Segarra is very proud of the work the two have done.

“She has an artistic background,” he said. “I used to tell her stories when she was a youngster of my “Guardians of Life Series.” We kind of piggybacked back and forth on some of the journey with the story. I love the collaboration with my daughter, of getting a sense of what the current times are right now, how people like to read, especially coming from her, coming from a younger generation. I get a lot of wonderful feedback from her artistry and illustration. I just love working with her, and we’re working on book number three. 

Segarra said the third installment in the series will be titled “Enforcer” and will incorporate elements of his Puerto Rican heritage and mythology. 

Segarra adores the art of creating a great experience for his readers, and extending his passion to the outside world.

“I just really want people to enjoy the story and be part of this journey, which is something I put a lot of love and experiences into, as well as the collaboration with my daughter.”