Book: Thriving While Black
Q1. Hello Sir, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.
Hello, my name is Cori J. Williams MSW LCSW and I am a author and licensed psychotherapist.
Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘Thriving While Black’ book?
Some of the key challenges was keeping my emotions at bay. What I mean by that, is we are experiencing an increase in racial tension and divide in the U.S. These events were taking during the writing process of my book. Emotionally, I was very drained, and I wanted to ensure that I was able to maintain a relaxed emotional state of mind during the writing process, but this was extremely hard.
Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?
Ralph Ellison “The Invisible Man”, “The Autobiography of Malcolm X,” and “The One Thing” by Gary Keller
Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?
Martha’s Vineyard in Massachusetts would be my selection, and this is because this is a place where my family typically comes together for the summers and fellowship and simply enjoy one another’s company.
Q5. Is there lots to do before you dive in and start writing a book?
Typically, I find myself simply writing my first thoughts without editing. I allow my emotions and experiences dictate the writing prior to proofreading.
Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘Thriving While Black’ book?
From start to finish, it took me six to nine months to fully complete the writing of the book.
Q7. On what platforms can readers find ‘Thriving While Black’ book to buy?
Readers can purchase the paperback copy via my main website http://www.thrivingwhileblack.net, also readers can obtain digital copies via Amazon, Kobo, Barnes & Nobles, Apple iBook’s in addition to other digital platforms where books are sold. Paperback copies will be available on the mentioned digital platforms on October 5, 2020.
Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Thriving While Black’?
To be honest, the title and cover of the book, was inspired by a spiritual conversation that I had with my mother and father. They are very inspirational to me and work.
Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also you?
As I stated, when I am writing, the source of my writings comes solely from my perspectives and experiences. I try not to limit myself nor censor my emotions when navigating through this world in effort to not limit my writing inspirational vibe.
Q10. Are there any secrets from the book (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?
During this time of COVID-19, this has allowed many of us to sit and be reflective in our thoughts. As a therapist, I have sat with patients, and what do you think my clients are talking about? Having the opportunity to be their authentic self.
To add an additional layer to this complexity cake, we find ourselves in a space where there has been an increase in acts of violence against our culture. We have watched almost ¼ of a million people die, in the last 6 months, so imagine having to be a black person and not receiving acceptance and experiencing consistent violations of simply being who you are.
As an African American we continue to be given this raw deal and except to simply compartmentalize all of this and operate in these spaces effectively with this heavy burden that we all bear.
Author’s Profile
Book Is Available On Amazon
Thriving While Black
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