Where Awesome Book Readers Meet Awesome Writers
About Russell Cederberg
Russell Cederberg is an author, musician, photographer, and storyteller whose creative spirit has spanned more than five decades. Born in Chicago to Scandinavian immigrant grandparents, he grew up in San Diego, California, and later lived in Oregon, Washington, Sweden, and England. Today, he resides in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, with his wife Lisa, to whom he has been married for forty-one years.
Russell began writing at the age of fourteen, starting with poetry and later developing into fiction, historical storytelling, and lyrical prose. Over the years, he has published fifty-one books, six albums of original music, and continues to explore the intersection of art, history, and imagination.
The Inspiration Behind Begin Again
His latest release, Begin Again, is the seventh book in his Historical Fiction series about two modern-day retirees who travel back to the Viking Age. The series was inspired by Russell’s deep personal connection to Sweden and his extensive genealogical research tracing his family back more than a thousand years.
Through his writing, he explores not just history but identity how ancestry, memory, and imagination intertwine to shape who we are. Begin Again continues this exploration, blending adventure, reflection, and a timeless sense of discovery.
Writing Habits and Creative Flow
Russell describes his writing process as both disciplined and intuitive. On a typical day, he writes between 4,000 and 6,000 words, though he admits that on what he calls a “firehose day,” he can produce up to 10,000 words in one sitting.
“I don’t think it’s unusual,” he says with a smile. “It’s just what happens when the story wants to be told.”
His approach reflects a balance between passion and persistence, letting inspiration lead the way while maintaining the focus required to finish what he starts.
Literary Influences
When it comes to literary inspiration, Russell’s admiration lies with C.S. Lewis, both for his imagination and his command of language. “I love English when it’s used well,” he says, explaining his preference for authors from a century or more ago. For him, language is not just a tool but an art form something to be cherished, shaped, and honored.
Current Projects and Future Plans
After publishing five books in a single year, Russell is taking a short creative break. Yet even during his downtime, stories are never far from his mind. He has six unwritten books waiting on his creative shelf, ready to be developed when inspiration strikes.
He also dreams of embarking on a personal pilgrimage through Sweden, visiting the ancestral villages of his family. “Boots on the ground always fills my creative tank,” he says. His travels often spark new stories, much like his time in Wales, which inspired a nine-book modern fantasy series.
Promoting His Work
Despite his success as an author, Russell admits that marketing is not his strongest skill. “I’m a nincompoop when it comes to promotion and sales,” he says with good humor. Still, his work continues to reach readers organically, fueled by authenticity and the depth of his storytelling.
Advice for Aspiring Writers
Russell’s advice to new authors is both simple and powerful: write every day. He believes that writing is a discipline as much as an art.
“Take your time every time you sit down to write anything, even an email,” he says. “Make it the best version it can be. Do everything with determination and excellence, especially when you’re writing.”
The Best Advice He Has Ever Heard
Among the many lessons he has learned, one phrase stands out above the rest: “Writers write.” For Russell, those two words capture the essence of the craft. Writing is not about waiting for the perfect moment or the perfect idea it’s about showing up, putting words on the page, and letting creativity flow.
What He’s Reading Now
Following the publication of Begin Again, Russell is taking a short break from reading. He often pauses between projects to rest, reflect, and recharge before immersing himself in new stories or historical research.
What’s Next for Russell Cederberg
Russell’s next chapter involves travel, creativity, and inspiration. His upcoming pilgrimage through Sweden will connect him more deeply to his heritage and likely inspire his future writing projects.
As a writer who blends history, adventure, and spirituality, Russell sees every journey as a chance to rediscover both himself and his stories. His readers can expect more heartfelt tales rooted in time, legacy, and imagination.
If Stranded on a Desert Island
If he were stranded on a desert island, Russell says he would bring a few essential books that blend faith, wisdom, and wonder:
- The Bible
- Strong’s Concordance
- Englishman’s Concordance
- The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis (in a single-volume edition)
These books, he says, would provide both spiritual nourishment and timeless storytelling.
Connect with Russell Cederberg
Official Website: Russell Cederberg Website
Amazon Author Page: Russell Cederberg on Amazon
Facebook: Russell Cederberg Facebook Profile
Final Thoughts
Russell Cederberg is a storyteller who bridges generations through his words. From the Viking Age to modern times, his novels invite readers to explore history, faith, and imagination. His dedication to writing, music, and heritage makes him a creator whose work transcends time a reminder that storytelling, like life itself, is a journey of continual rebirth and rediscovery.
