Q1. Hello, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.
My name is Julian Jackson, an electrical engineer and a Savannah State University alumnus. I grew up in Miami, Fl.
Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘Rise’ book?
Some of the key challenges I faced when writing Rise was the time management of it all. I was in school while writing it as well as working a full-time job. So, finding time to write this and getting my creativity to flow was challenging.
Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?
I’m a big manga reader so authors like Eiichiro Oda really influenced my writing style.
Q4. What’s your favorite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?
If I had to pick, I would say Sunny Isles Beach in Aventura, Fl. I wasn’t a big beach goer when I was younger but when I got older and left my hometown. I grew fonder of what I left behind.
Q5. Is there lots to do before you drive in and start writing a book?
Yes, there is. Organizing an idea, researching that idea, putting together an outline, securing your copyright. All are important in writing a story, keeping it fluid, and keeping it yours.
Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘Rise’ book?
It took almost 3 years to finish and, in some ways, it’s still not at its finished product.
Q7. On what all platforms readers can find ‘Rise’ book to buy?
For the time being you can find it on Amazon in hard copy only.
Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Rise’?
I actually commissioned an artist Reese Royce to do my cover based on who the characters were in the book. The title Rise just came from the characters prevailing from hardship RISE out of the ashes of their former life.
Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?
I try and bounce my ideas off my brother to keep it interesting for myself because he’ll bounce ideas right back to me. It gives me another perspective
Q10. Are there any secrets from the book (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?
Certain details from the last chapters of the book set up the sequel, however the ending will not.
Q1. Could you please tell readers about your latest book?
Yes! “Irreversible” is about a day in the life of an impulsive serial killer. He’s determined that every man he’s been with and will continue to come in contact within the future will never know how to love him the way that he ultimately wants to be loved. He was conditioned early on to think about love in a fixed way. In addition to this, he’s also dealing with something very sinister inside that he’s never properly dealt with. Killing men has turned into a coping mechanism for him.
Q2. Main character of your book Irreversible is sure that love doesn’t like him. Do you believe in love?
Haha! I do believe in love. I do. However, I think my standards and dating ideology are out of this world. A lot of the stuff that I believe in could be seen in the medieval times, or maybe even in the fifties. I want a love that resembles the American dream. You know, the husband, the white picket fence, a dog. Perhaps maybe a farm. I find that I’m not really made for hook-up culture or anything that involves sexual exploration. I must have an emotional bond with someone for anything to go anywhere. I’m a very emotional guy.
Q3. Between your plot and your characters, which is essential to you? Why?
Well, the plot is always essential no matter what. I think mapping out the plot is basically mapping out what the story is and how it comes together. On the other hand, I will say that characters are also very important to me. Every main character in my works has some part of me in them. For example, the main character of this story is a man named Frank Johnson. Frank is a serial killer. He kills men because they don’t know how to love him, or they do things that hurt him in some ways or another. I kill off men in my mind so that way I don’t have to carry the burden that they left with me. It’s sort of a coping mechanism that I use. It’s very effective.
Q4. How many books have you written so far?
I’ve completely written three books so far. Two short stories, and one poetry book. The fourth book is almost done, and I’m proud to call this one a book because it meets the length requirement and I’ve also been working on it for two years now.
Q5. What inspires your book cover design for your latest book “Irreversible”?
I wanted the book cover to depict me killing off the men in my life that have hurt me, and also the men in the main character’s life, which is Frank. The cover sort of acts as a metaphor for me, but it’s also how the main character see’s the men in his life. He sees them as useless. He sees them as garbage, hence the trash bag that I’m carrying.
Q6. What helps you relax while writing?
I have to turn everything off, even the air conditioner. It has to be complete silence, or else I’ll just sit with my legs crossed staring at my laptop. I don’t know. It’s kind of strange.
Q7. What would you tell an author that wants to publish his first book?
I would tell them to not be afraid to make mistakes, nothing comes easy, and that consistency is key.
Q1. Please introduce yourself so that the readers will get to know you better.
Hi My name is Drew Piercey, originally from Saint Neots and now living in County Durham. I’ve always wanted to write children’s books, but never thought this to be achievable. I put the dream away until 2 years ago when I was having problems with my mental health. I decided to enjoy life more and change the way I perceived myself and the world around me. My nephew is obsessed with dinosaurs, and I love to rhyme, so I made a book about them and thought this ‘This isn’t awful’. So I decided to go for it. I want my books to be enjoyed as any author does, but the key for me is getting them away from computer screens. This is more in the sense of moderation as it would be hypocritical of me otherwise. I also hope to inspire future artists, whether that be in the writing or Toria Ashplant’s wonderful illustrations.
Q2. What is your inspiration behind your book “Chewie The Pup”?
My inspiration was mainly from my puppy Chewbacca. He inspired the story and I saw it as a great way to teach key values in a short, yet sweet rhyming style that would both hold the readers attention and help the lesson to be taught.
Q3. When did you realize you want to be an author of Children’s Book?
When I was in year 6 at school we had a competition. This was to write a poem and have it published. My poem was chosen among others but I remember this being the first time I was truly proud of myself. I loved that feeling and it stuck with me. I’m glad I finally found the courage to do so.
Q4. Are you planning to release your next book soon?
My original book ‘My Rhyming Adventure: Dinosaurs’ is now being published (After initially self-publishing) and should be out soon. Chewie the pup will also return.
Q5. For which age group your books are suitable?
I would say Chewie the pup is from 3 to 6 years old but I’m new to the game and have no children of my own…… So what do I know!
Q6. What is your favorite Quote?
“There is no success without failure”
Q7. What do you like the most about your country?
Not sure. I guess in the world we live in, it’s certainly better to be in a more enlightened country however there’s still many steps to go before the united kingdom becomes the ideal fully inclusive place it should be.
Q8. What suggestion you want to give to parents of little readers regarding a reading habit?
I mean I’m no parent so I’ll just say directly to the reader “You are great, keep it up”.
Q9. What does literary success look like to you?
People reading my books or creating their own if they think they can do better.
Q10. Lastly, who is your inspiration in life and why?
This is a hard question. One that I don’t have a clear answer for. I would say everyone. Its easy to see the world only through your own eyes and assume you’re in the center of it. But everyday we see videos on our phones of people doing wonderful things. Everyday I’m reminded that there is good in the world.
Q1. Please introduce yourself so that the readers will get to know you better.
My name is Pamela Rae Hughey, you can call me Pam. I’m a wife, mother of two, and Family Nurse Practitioner. I’m passionate about all things health including spiritual and emotional health.
Q2. What is your inspiration behind your book “Gone But Never Forgotten”?
Well, I was inspired by a couple of things. First, my children and their many questions about their grandmother who has passed away. Secondly, the state of our world and all the wonderful people we have lost over the past 2 years. It’s been hard to understand not only for the adults but for our curious children as well.
Q3. When did you realize you want to be an author of Children’s Book?
I would say it’s always been a distant dream, but I never acted upon it until having children myself. We read so many books and have so many of our own adventures. It just started to become easy to create stories around their activities.
Q4. Are you planning to release your next book soon?
Not a picture book but a coloring book is in the works!
Q5. For which age group your books are suitable?
Ages 3-6
Q6. What is your favorite Quote?
I have a few but this one helps me stay motivated. “The best preparation for tomorrow is doing your best today”. -H. Jackson Brown, Jr.
Q7. What do you like the most about your country?
I appreciate the different cultures, diversity, and freedom.
Q8. What suggestion do you want to give to parents of little readers regarding a reading habit?
I would say just try to read something to them every day. Even if it’s telling stories from memorization like “the 3 little pigs” before naptime. This time will be so special to the kids and help build their little imaginations.
Q9. What does literary success look like to you?
Being forth book content that encourages mental, physical, and emotional growth and support for all ages as we all travel this road called life.
Q10. Lastly, who is your inspiration in life and why?
My mother. She is always pushing forward no matter what obstacles come her way.
Q1. Please introduce yourself so that the readers will get to know you better.
My name is Marie Ballif. I homeschool my four children and I love to teach. I am married to my best friend. I love learning, reading, influencing and helping children learn to love themselves.
Q2. What is your inspiration behind your book “THE FLYING WARTHOG: A Modern-Day Parable”?
My inspiration for this book is the feelings that, I believe, every one of us experiences at some point. It’s easy to compare yourself to others, but I think by doing so, we miss the beauty and individuality of ourselves. I want anybody who reads my book to love themselves a little more when they are done.
Q3. When did you realize you want to be an author of Children’s Book?
I have always loved to write. I wrote short stories all through grade school, poetry and songs through high school. Once I had my first child, I knew that I wanted to actually write and publish books.
Q4. Are you planning to release your next book soon?
Yes! I am very excited! I am working on my next book and hope to have it released in the next 4-6 months!
Q5. For which age group your books are suitable?
Truthfully, I like to think that my book is suitable for all ages because all of us need a bit of love and encouragement at some point. But, If I have to be specific, I’d say age 5-10.
Q6. What is your favorite Quote?
It is difficult to choose just one quote, but I will try.
“A child must know that he is a miracle, that since the beginning of the world there hasn’t been, and until the end of the world there will not be, another child like him.” -Pablo Casals
Q7. What do you like the most about your country?
The beauty and the people.
Q8. What suggestion you want to give to parents of little readers regarding a reading habit?
My suggestion is start. Just start reading to them and allowing them time to read.
Q9. What does literary success look like to you?
Literary success to me is an impactful book in the hand of every child so that children can love themselves and love others.
Q10. Lastly, who is your inspiration in life and why?
My family. My husband is so supportive and encouraging. My children whom, I write books for and about. My parents.
Q1. Hello, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.
My name is Annabel Harz. I’m a career teacher, burgeoning editor and emerging writer. I am Australian and have lived (and worked) around Australia and overseas. I live in the country because I love the lifestyle.
Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your ‘Journey’ books?
Definitely the biggest challenge in publishing both my books was facing my past: as I wrote in the Preface of Journey into the Shadow and the Sunshine, ‘Do I really want to peer into the most difficult times of my life again, to pry them open for public view?’
These works are autobiographical, therefore, publishing them puts my vulnerability openly in public view and this can be uncomfortable and confronting. Gradually, through the publishing process — especially during the editing — each poem transforms from ‘purely raw emotion’ to ‘ready for the public’, which makes it easier for me to release to the world.
I would like to reassure readers that my books have happy endings! In addition to the poems about being broken and lost, there are plenty of positive poems about strength, resilience and happiness (one reviewer described them as ‘beautiful love poems’).
Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?
It’s hard to name one author or book which has influenced my writing: I am always reading, and I read widely, across genres: I gain something from every title, so am influenced by every book and every author I read.
The authors which influence my own writing the most are those whose writing challenges my thinking and broadens my perspectives: I relish books which show me new ways of being, and (for fiction) have unexpected twists and turns which I can’t predict. Perennials are Kathy Lette, Ben Elton, Paulo Coelho; two new authors I have recently discovered are Claire Ishi Ayetoro and S.M. Stevens: stunning work!
Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?
Gosh, that’s a hard one! There are infinite beautiful places in Australia, which are highly varied: we have fragrant eucalypt forests, humid temperate and tropical rainforest, stunning coastlines, heavenly mountains, sandy desert and sparsely vegetated semi-desert … I guess my favourite spots to visit are where I feel at peace, and that includes anywhere in nature. I’m especially fond of places I have lived in, where I have seen the land in different seasons. Another favourite spot to visit is my family, which is strictly not one single place, although it acts as a landscape in my heart: my connection to family is strong and I am uplifted when I share time and place with them.
Q5. Is there lots to do before you dive in and start writing a book?
Definitely! For me the planning process very much involves readying myself to put my work out on public view, especially as the content is very personal. I take time over the format and layout, which informs my decisions about what to include overall: this process of sifting the content continues into the editing process, where I have removed poems that niggle (alerting me to that they don’t quite fit) fairly late in the process, when much of the book feels complete.
Q6. How long did it take you to write your ‘Journey’ books?
Both my books contain poetry and pictures which illustrate my journey from depression to wellness as a teenager-young adult, so the content is largely from that era.
It therefore took me ‘decades’ and ‘a year’ to write each one. Once I had put the content together, the actual publishing process was inside a year.
Q7. On what platforms can readers find your books to buy?
My books are available in physical bookstores and online, from the following places: INDEPENDENT BOOK STORES (Print) The Book Wolf, Maldon, Vic Torquay Books, Torquay, Vic Lorne Books, Lorne, Vic Collins Booksellers Ballarat on Lydiard, Ballarat, Vic Everybody Knows Books, Ballarat, Vic The Independent Bookstore, Ballarat, Vic
Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the cover and the title of your books?
I published Journey into the Dark and the Light in 2017. Given that Journey into the Shadow and the Sunshine focuses on the same topic, this book deserved a similar title. Both books take the reader on a journey, from the depths of depression to the positivity of wellness, so putting Journey into the title was an easy decision to make. To create the remainder of the titles I followed my heart, ensuring that both the sad and glad experiences of the content were reflected. The audience vicariously experiences both sides of the yin-yang symbol on the covers and I wanted to portray this duality in my titles. The artwork for the cover took some consideration: for both books, I wanted to use an original piece, to allow the audience to easily predict what to expect from the inside content. It was a matter of deciding what would be attention-grabbing, interest-piquing and, above all, relevant to all sections of the book. The torn-paper look was created by the design team at Balboa Press. I was enchanted when I received the first draft of Journey into the Dark and the Light. The cover showed my artwork while withholding some of it, it wasn’t a full reveal – mirroring the mystique of many of the poems and pictures within. It fitted so well, stylistically, that I requested the same look for Journey into the Shadow and the Sunshine. When something is perfect, why change it?
Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?
I keep things fresh by judging each item on its own. Each and every poem must earn its place within its section (alongside nine other poems), and within the overall book. I apply the same scrutiny to my artwork: I strive to provide a variety of artwork styles for the audience.
During the editing phase I ‘read as a reader’: I approach each poem and picture as an outsider who has no prior knowledge of my story. This enables me to work out which text needs more clues to be understood, as well as sorting out what doesn’t contribute to the collection as a whole. I tweak individual poems at line-level, ensuring that every word value-adds; I evaluate the match of each picture to its poem; I rearrange the order until it works. Each item must therefore stand on its own as well as enhancing the whole, and if it’s not … it’s discarded.
Q10. Are there any secrets from the book (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?
There aren’t really any secrets in my book: the strength of my poetry and artwork is that it is raw and honest, it displays my vulnerability openly. This aspect of my work can make it challenging to consume, as there is really no place for me as the author or the reader to hide from the unsettling brutality that a condition like depression engenders; yet as it is ultimately cathartic to see how far I have come, it is also inspiring (to quote multiple reviewers). I am glad to provide happy endings in my books, mirroring my life: I have overcome my depression and can now appreciate the multitude of joys that life has to offer.
Q1. Hello, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.
I am a breathwork coach, mindset coach, EFT Practitioner, and Womb Healer! I love inspiring women to live boldly and to live lives they love! I have three fabulous children, one grandson, and a husband who supports me.
Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘My Vagina Doesn’t Do The Dishes’ book?
It took me 5 years to be brave enough to finish it and publish it. I was going to write under a pen name because I wasn’t sure I wanted the world to know me.
Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?
I love Heather Amara and Jen Sincero – They are both very honest to the point writers. No bullshit.
Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?
I live in Canada and I love to visit the Okanogan! It has everything I love – Mountains, lakes, sunshine, and last but not least – my daughter!
Q5. Is there lots to do before you drive in and start writing a book?
This book came to me in spurts of inspiration over the last five years. It changed and rearranged several times! Part two is coming in more effortlessly. I think you have to be open to inspiration! I do my best writing when I wake up at 2am with an idea and get up and follow it!
Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘My Vagina Doesn’t Do The Dishes’ book?
5 Years – But really working full time on it was about 3 months.
Q7. On what all platforms readers can find ‘My Vagina Doesn’t Do The Dishes’ book to buy?
Anywhere you buy your books online! Amazon, Chapters, Indigo, Balboa Book Store, Barnes and Noble!
Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘My Vagina Doesn’t Do The Dishes’?
Considering I did not want my name on the book to start with, it took some convincing to get me to put pictures of myself on it! I do love it though! My husband took the pictures, we were just goofing around! I love how it turned out though! The name came up while talking to a friend about her husband doing NOTHING around their house and they both worked full time and had three kids – my response was actually “Why? Does your Vagina do the Dishes?” The book grew from the title.
Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?
I kept it real. I did not add fluff or bs just to make it longer. I wrote with my own voice and my own passion. I did not want to sound like anyone else – my voice, my style, is what keeps my book authentic and unique.
Q10. Are there any secrets from the book (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?
Sure! Balancing your masculine and feminine energies creates massive shifts in not only your life but in the world! I give small challenges in each chapter to help readers to create changes and to look at where they may be stuck in lives that are unfulfilling or fragmented.
Q1. Hello, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.
My name is Adam Klein. I am so proud to have completed my first novel, which is something I have wanted to do since I was 12. For one reason or another, I never actually took the time to devote to writing, but last year, I felt the time was right. My urge to begin writing was intensified when I completed my master’s degree in higher education leadership in 2018. I had to write a paper every week and enjoyed doing it. Once I got settled in my current position of Director of Admissions and Recruitment, I felt it was now or never.
Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘Unlawful Games’ book?
The biggest and maybe only challenge for me was finding the time to write the book. Between work and school (I am going for my Doctorate in Leadership), it was very difficult to find enough time. However, once I got going and the story really began to develop, I found myself making time to write getting easier.
Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?
I love suspense/thriller novels, which is why I decided to write one. James Paterson is my favorite author and I used a lot of his writing styles to influence me. He is so gifted in the way he tells a story, it is truly inspiring.
Q4. What’s your favorite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?
I have been fortunate enough to have been to a lot of cities across the United States, but my favorite spot is Miami, Florida. I am a warm-hot weather person and love the scenery of palm trees and South Beach. Every time I go to Miami, I have a new experience, usually better than the previous ones.
Q5. Is there lots to do before you dive in and start writing a book?
I am sure there is for most authors, but surprisingly, I did not plan anything out in my book, except the ending. All the dialogue, plot ideas and characters came as I was writing each chapter. I love telling stories and I had this story in my head for so long, I sort of already knew how I wanted to tell it. There were some instances where I had to write a page or two because I didn’t like what I wrote, but that was the extent any difficulties I had.
Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘Unlawful Games’ book?
It took me just over 4 months to write Unlawful Games.
Q7. On what all platforms readers can find ‘Unlawful Games’ book to buy?
Unlawful Games is available only on Amazon at the moment. It is offered in eBook, paperback, and hardcover formats.
Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Unlawful Games’?
I wanted a cover that would grip the audience’s attention, while giving a subtle hint as to both the book’s plot and main antagonist. I also wanted the justice system represented, along with blood. The cover artist I worked with captured everything I wanted and more. I could not be happier with how it turned out. The tile took a long time to come up with. I wanted to wait until I finished the book to come with the title because I did not want any influences in my writing. I wanted the title to have something to do with the law and the fact that one of the characters loved playing games with people. My wife assisted me with coming up the title. She came up different variations of games, but I ultimately came up with Unlawful Games.
Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?
I try to put myself in the readers’ shoes and think of what I would want from the story. I have read so many thrillers over the years, that I tried to incorporate certain aspects that I enjoyed. I love plot twists and turns, especially those I did not see coming. I wanted to tell a different story with a different type of plot twist, which hopefully will be refreshing for the reader.
Q10. Are there any secrets from the book (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?
Without giving too much away, all I can say is your mind will be continually going a mile a minute trying to figure out the mysteries. The feedback I have received from numerous readers is that they thought they had everything figured out, but in fact were completely wrong.
Q1. Please introduce yourself so that the readers will get to know you better.
Hello readers! A bit about me and my background. I graduated from Suffolk University in 2016, with a Bachelor’s in Communications and Public Relations. After graduating, I was working in various Client Service roles in Boston, and eventually, New York City. In August of 2019, I left the corporate world to pursue my dream of becoming an educator. I am currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education with a Dual Certification in Special Education at Bank Street Graduate School of Education. Last semester, I was student-teaching in a 4s/5s UPK classroom in NYC. This semester, I am student-teaching in a 2nd-grade classroom in NYC.
Q2. What is your inspiration behind your book “A Broken Crayon Still Colors”?
A Broken Crayon Still Colors was inspired by my own childhood experiences dealing with divorce. As I reflected on that time, I remembered how scared and confused I was. I questioned what my family would look like with my parents living apart. However, I did not have books or resources that reflected what I was going through or how I was feeling. So, I sought to change that.
Q3. When did you realize you want to be an author of Children’s Book?
During my 2021 Spring Semester at Bank Street, I was enrolled in the course, Language, Literature, and Emergent Literacy in the Primary Grades. This course truly allowed me to examine the role of literature in children’s lives and understand the role of literature in language development in children’s primary and new languages. Exploring the ways to use literature from a wide range of genres and perspectives, honoring and stimulating children’s storytelling, and deepening their learning across content areas, was the catalyst for creating A Broken Crayon Still Colors. While this book started as a final project for school, it has turned into a dream come true.
Q4. Are you planning to release your next book soon?
I hope to create many more children’s books, inspired by my own experiences, and the experiences of those around me. I am in the process of working on another children’s book, which focuses on autism (ASD). While I am in the very beginning stages of this book, I want to focus on stories that reflect and honor the lives of ALL young people.
Q5. For which age group your books are suitable?
My books are suitable for children 8 and under. However, my hopes for this book are to provide a resource for children, grown-ups, and educators, that acknowledges the complex emotions often associated with divorce, separation, and changes within a family, yet explain that even when we feel “broken” those feelings are not forever. This story also serves as a way for children to recognize that “family” looks different for everyone. As a way for children to express their understanding and how they make meaning of the story, the last page of the book encourages readers to draw their family portrait.
Q6. What is your favorite Quote?
“I did then what I knew how to do. Now that I know better, I do better.” – Maya Angelou
Q7. What do you like the most about your country?
Diversity. Without the diverse lived experiences of those in our country, we would have no stories to tell, no traditions to share.
Q8. What suggestion you want to give to parents of little readers regarding a reading habit?
One suggestion I would give to parents of little readers is to really think about the books you are choosing to read with your child and/or books you purchase for your child. Make sure you are choosing books that empower and affirm all identities. Recognition of a child’s identity in books can have a powerful effect on how they view themselves and how they view others.
Q9. What does literary success look like to you?
To me, literary success would be knowing I impacted someone’s life. Whether that “someone” is a child, a parent or guardian, an educator, etc., success is knowing that A Broken Crayon Still Colors positively influenced a life.
Q10. Lastly, who is your inspiration in life and why?
My inspiration in life cannot be attributed to a single person, as so many have touched and influenced my life in so many different ways. However, my inspiration to continue to learn, to grow as an educator, and to keep writing, is simply drawn from all of the children who I have had the pleasure of being around.
Q1. Hello, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.
My name is Frederick Douglass Reynolds. I am a retired LA County Sheriff’s Homicide Sergeant. Named after Frederick Douglass, an African- American abolitionist in the 1800s, I was born in Rocky Mount, Virginia and grew up Detroit, Michigan where I became a petty criminal and was involved in gangs. I joined the US Marine Corps in 1979 to escape the life of crime that I seemed destined for. I ultimately became a police officer with the Compton police department, working there from 1985 until 2000 before transferring to the sheriff’s department where I worked an additional seventeen years until I retired in 2017. I live in Southern California with my wife, Carolyn, and our daughter Lauren and young son, Desmond. We have six other adult children and nine grandchildren.
Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘Black, White, And Gray All Over’ book?
Facing my own inadequacies and deficiencies. There were so many scenes that were difficult to write, starting with my father’s alcoholism, my upbringing, and the contentious relationship between my parents. I went down a dark path that involved drugs and jail time, I was homeless for a time, and was working the night two of my friends were murdered by a street gang member. I often found myself crying as I struggled to put my feelings on paper.
Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?
I love Edgar Allen Poe, Robert Beck, and Carl Sagen. I also love Ta-Nehisi Coates and Mitch Albom. The autobiography of Frederick Douglass is probably the book that influenced me the most, but I probably learned how to truly write from Marvel comic books. Did you know that Frederick Douglass’s given name was Frederick Augustus Washington Bailey, but after escaping from slavery he changed his last name to Douglass from a poem by Sir Walter Scott titled, “The Lady of the Lake”? Which is also ironic because my sister’s married last name is “Bailey.”
Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?
My favorite spot if Lake Tahoe, Nevada. It is so serene and beautiful, especially in the winter months. It is also the place where I got my first formal introduction to my wife’s family.
Q5. Is there lots to do before you drive in and start writing a book?
Not for me. When I sit down and start writing, I will write for days on end. Nothing really motivates me. A lot of times I will just be sitting around, watching tv, listening to music, or maybe even reading a book when I just feel the urge to start writing.
Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘Black, White, And Gray All Over’ book?
Probably about two to three, solid years altogether. I had been writing off and on for about twenty years, but I was just jotting down notes and ideas. After I retired, I started putting everything in some type of order. But after I had a heart attack in 2020, I realized that I could have died without finishing my book. After that, when I recovered, I started in earnest and finished in early 2021. Rewrites and editing took about six more months.
Q7. On what all platforms can readers find ‘Black White And Gray All Over’ book to buy?
Amazon, Target, and Barnes and Noble.
Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Black, White, And Gray All Over’?
I had the title for the book before I even started writing it. I chose the title because my life has never been about just Black, or White. It always seemed like I lived in the gray area. Cop cars are Black and White, there has always been issues between Black and White people in America, and I believed that for us to bridge that gap, we had to somehow become one and Gray comes from a mixture of black and white.
Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?
Well, this is my first book and the topic I was writing on; my life as a Black cop, was a polarizing one. Because of that polarization, the topic itself always remained fresh due to the climate.
Q10. Are there any secrets from the book (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?
I would love to share them with my readers, but I won’t. I don’t want to spoil the rollercoaster ride. I want you in the front seat with your hands thrust above your heads in anticipation of that first, ridiculously steep drop. I will say that I have left clues in the book that will lead certain readers to answers to bigger questions.
Sassy Reviews 