Where awesome book readers meet awesome writers.
Today, we feature Craig Prusansky, a former emergency services professional whose career spanned over three decades across New York, Massachusetts, and Florida. After years of working under high-pressure conditions, Craig retired and transitioned into a new chapter of life one defined by reflection, creativity, and writing. His debut memoir, Saved by Seconds, gives readers an inside look at what it truly means to serve on the front lines and make split-second decisions that save lives.
Meet Craig Prusansky
After dedicating more than 30 years to emergency services, Craig retired in 2016 and began working in technology for emergency response systems, focusing on computer-aided dispatch and electronic patient care record systems. His extensive experience has given him a deep understanding of how technology can support those who dedicate their lives to helping others.
When he is not writing, Craig enjoys spending time with his family and coaching youth softball, finding joy in mentoring young athletes and staying active in his community. Though Saved by Seconds is his first published book, he already has plans for a second and even the concept for a third.
About His Latest Book: Saved by Seconds
Craig’s debut book, Saved by Seconds, is a heartfelt memoir inspired by his lifelong career in emergency services. “After I retired, I wanted to write a book about my experiences,” he shares. “There were so many moments some good, some bad that I felt needed to be told. I wanted to give people a glimpse into what we really do out there.”
The memoir takes readers behind the sirens, revealing the emotional highs and lows of working in one of the most demanding professions. It’s a story of courage, teamwork, and the human side of emergency response reminding readers that heroes are often ordinary people doing extraordinary things.
His Writing Habits
Craig admits that his best writing often happens in the quiet hours of the night. “I find that I do my best writing in the middle of the night when I can’t sleep,” he says. Those late-night reflections allow him to tap into his most honest and emotional storytelling.
His approach is simple: write what feels true, edit carefully, and keep moving forward. His years of discipline and structure in emergency work translate into a strong work ethic as a writer.
Authors Who Inspire Him
When asked about his literary influences, Craig immediately mentions Dennis Smith, the legendary firefighter and author of Report from Engine Co. 82. “Dennis did a lot for firefighting by documenting our work and showing the public what it’s really like,” Craig says. Smith’s honest and heartfelt storytelling helped shape Craig’s approach to his own writing realistic, humble, and deeply human.
What’s Next for Craig Prusansky
Craig is currently working on a romance novel that explores love, humor, and life’s unpredictable moments. “It’s about a pop star who falls in love with a paramedic who treated her at a concert after she was injured,” he explains.
While the story may sound lighthearted, Craig promises readers that it will go deeper than a simple love story. “It’s not just a fairy tale. There’s humor, real emotion, and a lot of truth about relationships and the human experience.”
Promoting His Books
As a new author, Craig is still exploring the best ways to reach readers. So far, Facebook has been his most effective platform for connecting with audiences and sharing updates about his work. “I’m still figuring it out,” he says. “Ask me again in six months.”
He plans to expand his marketing efforts as his writing career grows, exploring new strategies to share his stories with a wider audience.
Advice for New Authors
Craig’s advice for aspiring writers is simple but powerful:
“Don’t be afraid to just do it.”
“With self-publishing platforms like KDP, it’s easier than ever to share your work,” he says. “Just make sure you go over it carefully. Use tools like Grammarly or ProWritingAid to catch mistakes. And don’t be afraid to use AI it can be your friend when used responsibly for editing or idea generation.”
For Craig, the key is progress over perfection. Every story starts somewhere, and the most important step is beginning.
The Best Advice He’s Ever Heard
Craig’s favorite piece of advice echoes his own message:
“Don’t be afraid to just do it.”
He believes that hesitation holds back too many creative people. “You don’t have to know everything before you start. Just take that first step,” he says. “Momentum builds confidence.”
What He’s Reading Now
Right now, Craig is focused on professional development, reading Azure AZ-900 course material as he works toward certification in cloud computing. “It’s not the most exciting read,” he laughs. “But it’s something I need for my current work.”
If Stranded on a Desert Island
If Craig were stranded with only a few books, his choices would be practical and meaningful:
- The Ultimate Survival Manual (Outdoor Life): 333 Skills That Will Get You Out Alive by Rich Johnson
- Report from Engine Co. 82 by Dennis Smith
- Emergency!: Behind the Scene by Richard Yokley and Rozane Sutherland
Each reflects his dedication to survival, storytelling, and lifelong learning.
Connect with Craig Prusansky
Stay connected with Craig and his upcoming projects:
- Official Website: Craig Prusansky Website
- Amazon Author Page: Craig Prusansky on Amazon
- Goodreads: Craig Prusansky on Goodreads
- Facebook: Craig Prusansky on Facebook
- Twitter: Craig Prusansky on Twitter
Follow Craig’s journey as he continues to write stories that honor real heroes and explore the everyday courage behind extraordinary moments.
Final Thoughts
Craig Prusansky’s Saved by Seconds is more than a memoir it’s a tribute to those who dedicate their lives to saving others. Through his honest storytelling, Craig captures the raw emotions, challenges, and triumphs of life in emergency services while reminding readers of the importance of compassion and resilience.
His next chapter as an author promises to blend authenticity with imagination, from heartfelt memoirs to creative fiction. Whether through his real-life experiences or his upcoming novels, Craig continues to show that courage and heart are at the center of every great story.
