Nathan Leslie is a Burke-based writer and editor who has published two books of short fiction, "A Cold Glass of Milk" and "Rants and Raves." His third collection, "Drivers," is set to be released this December. Leslie has been featured in numerous literary journals, he is currently the fiction editor at Pedestal Magazine, and he is this week's People Profile.
Years in the community:
I've spent three years living in King's Park West. I love it here.
Family:
My wife, Julie Leslie.
Education:
I have a bachelor of arts degree from University of Mary Washington and a master of fine arts degree from University of Maryland.
Current job:
I teach English at NOVA in Sterling, but I moonlight as a writer/editor. I edit fiction for The Pedestal Magazine, where I also write reviews and conduct interviews ... but mostly I write fiction. My third book of stories will be published in December, "Drivers." All of the stories are, in some way, about cars and/or car culture.
Achievements:
My primary achievements have to be the three books I've published thus far. I also have another book of short stories, coming out in the summer of 2006.
Activities/interests/hobbies: My main hobby is writing short fiction, though I'm also an avid tennis player.
Favorite local place:
The Burke Farmer's Market. I go every Saturday morning.
Community concerns:
Car culture. This is what I address in "Drivers." The car can be liberating, but often it can be a trap to us psychologically, physically and environmentally. I think we need to find ways to reduce our dependence upon the car.
What brought you to the area?
We bought a house in King's Park West when Julie and I both landed full-time positions in the area three years ago.
Community hidden treasure:
Royal Lake in King's Park West. It's a hidden gem.
Personal goals:
To win a Pulitzer with my next best-selling book of stories, of course!
Do you know someone who should be featured in the Connection's People Profile? Send your nominations to Jon Whiten at jwhiten@connectionnewspapers.com or call 703-917-6422.