Learn more about Arthur Doweyko, the newest addition to the e-Lit family in this month's spotlight. A scientist-turned-novelist, Arthur has written more than 100 scientific papers, invented novel software to assist chemists in drug 
design, and is the recipient of the 2008 Thomas Alva Edison Patent Award for the discovery of Sprycel, an anti-cancer drug. His debut novel, tentatively titled Algorithm, is a hard science fiction story he describes as "Indiana Jones and Tomb Raider in space."
E-Lit Books: What can readers expect from Algorithm?
Arthur Doweyko: It's a fast-paced, science fiction mystery/thriller. The reader is drawn through a rapidly unfolding series of adventures, which ultimately lead to a shocking view of mankind's purpose on Earth.
ELB: What's been the toughest challenge in the writing process?
AD:This is my debut novel. Although I have written some hundred or so scientific papers, including several textbook chapters, writing fiction was a daunting challenge. I needed to research almost every topic in the story in order to provide the reader with a believable and factual account of key events.
ELB: What interested you about this topic?
AD: It's the age old questions--Why are we here? What's going on? What's it all about? These are the questions that give birth to religion and torment philosophers.
ELB: How do you find inspiration to write?
AD: I've always loved telling stories. When I was a child, I can still recall the wide-eyed stares and laughter from the kids in the neighborhood as I strutted about, waving my arms, describing monsters from space and robots on the prowl. That connection, that feeling of sharing a special moment of insight, of awe, has never left me.
ELB: What do you do when you're not writing?
AD: For most of my life, I was involved in the discovery of bio-active compounds. I invented novel software to assist chemists in the design of new drugs. Now I teach chemistry at a college. Other activities include drawing, painting, composing music, playing pool and running along the beach.
ELB: Who are some of your favorite authors?
AD: Among them is Isaac Asimov, mainly because he was a scientist-turned-writer, and what a prodigal writer! Others of great influence are Arthur C. Clarke, Michael Crichton, Robert A. Heinlein, Ray Bradbury, Dean Koontz and Stephen King.
Stay tuned for more updates on Arthur's new book!
