William Pezza has been a history
teacher for 41 years, and has
now entered his third year as a
professor at Bucks County Community
College.Along with being
a teacher and professor for more
than four decades, he has also become
one of the most prolific authors
in Southeastern
Pennsylvania, with the releases of
his two novels, “Anna’s Boys”
and most recently, “Stealing
Tomatoes.”
Being a history expert has paid
dividends for Pezza in his writing
career because his two published
novels blend fictional characters
with relevant, factual historic
events. Writing about historic
events has given him the ability to
combine two passions, teaching
young students and writing.
“I try to put a face on history by
creating characters that I hope
readers like and follow through
these past significant events
throughout the books,” said
Pezza, who classifies his novels as
historic fiction-themed.
Pezza began writing “Anna’s
Boys” in 2003 and it was published
three years later, in 2006.
“Stealing Tomatoes” is his latest
novel; it is a story of love, friendship,
conflict, and growing up in
some of the most challenging
times our country has faced.
Like many authors before him,
Pezza says that writing is a lonely
process. However, it is important
to have family or friends who can
read your work and give initial
feedback. “My wife is always the
first to read my books and give
feedback, in addition to my close
circle of friends who can read the
story and give suggestions,” said
Pezza.
“You have to always know your
topic, work hard, prepare to continuously
revise and edit your
work, and never stare at a blank
sheet of paper if you want to be a
successful writer,” said Pezza,
when asked what advice he would
offer to young, inexperienced
writers.
When asked what he would like
to say to his readers, it became evident
that Pezza shares a connection
with his readers that not all
authors do, as he said, “I would
like to send sincere gratitude and
tell my readers how appreciative I
am for them. The fact that I can
bring a familiarity to history, and
have the reader improve their understanding
of historic events is
why I love writing.”
Currently Pezza is focused on
this semester’s teachings and the
upcoming marketing for “Stealing
Tomatoes.” Both of his novels are
in several book clubs, and used
throughout Pennsylvania
school districts. Along with
being available for book
signings, Pezza also is
available for book chat
meetings and classroom
visits.