Make no mistake: Val Emmich is in touch with his muse. 

When the actor, songwriter, and now-author got on the phone with Middle State to discuss his endearing new novel, The Reminders, he explained how his motivation for making art is almost always led by a mysterious impulse. 

“I don't know if you’re in tune with what makes you do certain things” Emmich explained. “I’m not really in tune with myself in that way— but I guess the link is that I am happiest when I am creating something… I like building stuff.” 

It is precisely this devotion to following his artistic intuition that led Emmich to wake up early one morning and begin typing. Ultimately, Emmich found himself with The Reminders, a story of young songwriter Joan Lennon and her quest to be remembered forever. Joan’s exceptional memory, spurred from a childhood accident, leaves her capable of recalling even the most minute detail. When she meets Gavin, a family friend mourning the loss of his partner Sydney, the two strike up a deal: in exchange for Joan sharing her memories of Sydney, Gavin will help Joan win a local songwriting contest. What ensues is the formation of a genuine friendship based on exploring the pains and joys of remembering. 

Throughout our hour-long interview, it became clear that no matter what compelled Emmich to sit down and begin composing The Reminders, he became obsessed with portraying Joan and Gavin honestly. Undoubtedly, Emmich's immersion in his characters and their story has resulted in a compelling and powerful work of art. 

The Reminders is an Amazon Book of the Month pick and is sold by all major book sellers.