|
J.T.’s Book Corner Has a Threesome!
Get your mind out of the gutter! I’m not talking about the type of threesome that involves fingers, tongues darting in and out of mouths, limbs intertwined, bellies and abdomens slapping in a slow rhythmic motion, tangling and wrestling on the bed… My, my, my, I need a glass of water!
I digress…
The type of threesome I’m referring to involves Feenin’ for Sugar & Spice, All That Drama, with some serious Pretenses — demanding mental foreplay, arousing your senses and catapulting your imagination to a thrilling destination.
It got hot and heavy in my corner, with two guys and a girl! Experience your first literary threesome… read on!
The Guy…
Keith Lee Johnson, Author
JT: Hey Keith, welcome to J.T.’s Book Corner. Have a seat and let’s pick your brain a bit.
KLJ: Thanks for having me.
JT: Keith, why crime, thrillers and murder mysteries?
KLJ: Funny you should ask that question because when I began my literary journey, I had no plans of writing thrillers. But, I got an idea for a cool FBI agent named Perry Phoenix. But a friend told me to switch the names around and Phoenix Perry was born—a female. I loved the idea and tore into the storyline. Once I finished PRETENSES, I knew I had to write another thriller to prove to myself that the first one wasn’t luck, which led me to Sugar & Spice.
JT: Give us a little background on Pretenses, Sugar & Spice, Fate’s Redemption and Little Black Girl Lost. Where do you get your inspiration? Great titles by the way.
KLJ: Fate’s Redemption was my first novel and PRETENSES, Sugar & Spice, and Little Black Girl Lost all have roots in it—all released out of sequence. Little Black Girl Lost is about Johnnie Wise, a 15-year-old black female, who is cursed with beauty and the body of a grown woman. Men can’t seem to keep their hands off her, knowing she’s a child. She realizes that her beauty can get her anything this world has to offer and she wants it all. Fate’s Redemption introduces Johnnie Wise, but it’s about her nephews—Jericho, Sterling, and William. Jericho is an international arms and drug deal with CIA connection. Readers may remember Sterling, a big time attorney and sports agent as he is in both PRETENSES and Sugar & Spice. William is a very successful psychologist who finds himself involved in a love affair he’d tried to avoid for years. PRETENSES introduced my favorite character to date: Coco Nimburu, the lethal psychotic nymphomaniac assassin who keeps her word and breaks men off proper prior to fulfilling a contract. Sugar & Spice begins when a couple of twins are released from prison. They plan to settle a few scores. These two villains will have you checking your closets when you’re at home at night.
JT: Are the characters based on people you know?
KLJ: Not at all. My characters are based on the human condition, human weakness, and human failings that we all succumb to from time to time. For example, human beings make decisions that get them into all kinds of trouble, decisions that have repercussion; the kind of repercussions that ruins lives. I try to let people be who they really are in my stories.
JT: There are authors who write with a message. Do you feel the need to get across a message in your writing?
KLJ: I want the readers to recognize a certain measure of truth in all my novels. But most don’t. I’m far too subtle with my messages to the readers, as they don’t buy my books to be taught life lessons. I want them to be entertained, but at the same time, recognize certain truths. For example, in Little Black Girl Lost, there were two black parishes. In one, the people were poor and in the other, the people had money, had nice homes, and had many thriving businesses—all before Affirmative Action. My point? One day Affirmative Action will be no more and when it’s gone, people need to know that black folk will survive and thrive, just as the people in Ashland Estates did. As a people, we need to prepare ourselves for this eventuality and at the same time know our future is in our own hands.
JT: What advice would you give to aspiring and up and coming authors?
KLJ: I would tell aspiring writers to research the business before they even get into it as the publishing game is a mine field. It is tough and only the strong survive. I would tell them to save their money for traveling expenses. Most don’t know that when you first start out, chances are they won’t get a contract that pays for tours. People on the outside looking in think if you have a book out, you can quit your day job. Oh, how wrong these people are.
JT: What has been your biggest obstacle as an author?
KLJ: I’d have to say building an audience has been the biggest obstacle. But at the same time, I’m glad I didn’t sell a lot of books out the gate. If I had, I don’t think I would appreciate easy success. I think, in the long run, it’s better to build the audience over time, but I am still impatient to a degree.
JT: Do you have mentors? If so, how have they supported your growth and development as a writer?
KLJ: Unfortunately, no, I don’t have mentors. But, Tee C. Royal, founder of the RAWSISTAZ has always been in my corner. What little success I’ve achieved, has much to do with her unwavering belief in my work and she’s constantly telling readers about it.
JT: How difficult, if at all, was it for you to get a book deal?
KLJ: Strangely, it has been more difficult to get an agent than getting published. I’ve been blessed to have black publishers, Strebor Books, headed by best selling author Zane and Urban Books, heading by best selling author Carl Weber, who heard of my work and love it.
JT: Why do you think your writing is so well received?
KLJ: At the time of this interview, I have 3 books out. Pretenses, Sugar & Spice (both thrillers), and Little Black Girl Lost; all of them are about strong black women. I think my thrillers are mainly enjoyed because Phoenix Perry is strong, self-assured, professional, and has a very good marriage. She’s also a Grandmaster of Shaolin Kung Fu, and as an FBI agent, she uses her skills to kick butt when she has to. I think black women like her being in charge and not having to be so vulnerable to the threats of a murderous and rapist society.
JT: Okay, time for you to get comfortable in J.T.’s Hot Seat!
KLJ: Okay, shoot . . .
JT: What’s a typical day in the life of Keith Lee Johnson?
KLJ: I try to start my day of with reading, usually non-fiction, as that is what I enjoy most, and it’s usually apart of my research for an upcoming novel. After that, I formulate ideas for books. I like watching the news to see what supposedly is going on, which also serves as a springboard for even more book ideas. Then, I sit at my desk and bang out a few chapters, answer emails, and return phone calls.
JT: How do you define success?
KLJ: To me, success and achievement are interchangeable. Achievement/success, simply put, is accomplishing whatever goals you’ve set for yourself, not necessarily earning a lot of money. Achievement/success is doing what you want to do within the bounds of the law. It is the pursuit of dreams. It is liberty from the chains of fear and unbelief. It is recognition of what makes you unique and what you have to offer others. It is the realization, the substance, and the tangibility of a dream fulfilled.
JT: How do you deal with adversity and failure?
KLJ: To me adversity is character building and should be embraced, not avoided. Besides, you can’t avoid it anyway. Life is full of ups and downs and no one escapes this. No one. Adversity makes us better, stronger, and dare I say powerful when we see it as a stepping-stone and not a roadblock. As for failure, it does not exist. It is an illusion, nothing more.
JT: What do you think are the biggest challenges facing Black men in America?
KLJ: In my opinion, the biggest challenge facing Black men in America is a lack of discipline in nearly every area of their lives. Discipline is the necessary ingredient to lay hold to achievement/success while simultaneously avoiding the illusion of failure. If for example, Black men focused more on establishing a career and educating themselves, rather than focusing on the sweet nectar women offer; Black men would be much better off. A by-product of this new discipline would be more eligible men for black women to choose from.
JT: Has there been a significant life lesson for you? If so, do tell.
KLJ: Indeed. However, life lessons, for me, take time to become apart of who I am; meaning I may know a thing, but yet, not know it. For example, most of the time, we have to make the same mistakes over and over again, before we make the necessary changes to make our lives more complete. For those reasons, I’m reluctant to say what life lessons I’ve learned. When I’ve truly overcome these things, maybe then I’ll feel comfortable saying what they are.
JT: Specifically, what do you want Black men to learn as a result of reading your novels?
KLJ: If Black men were to learn anything from my novels, I would want them to deal with their internal doubts, fears, and insecurities from the past so they can overcome their self-destructive behavior. I want Black men to recognize that there are people in this world who have very big guns pointed at them. STOP—SUPPLYING—THE—BULLETS!
JT: Okay, one last question. What do you do to stay grounded and maintain a sense of balance in your life?
KLJ: Right now my life isn’t balanced. I spend the majority of my time trying to get people to talk about my books, read my books, sell my books, and writing or researching my books. I’m trying to bring more balance, but I’m a long way from it.
JT: Keith, thank you so much! I wish you continued success.
KLJ: Thanks for the interview.
A Girl…
Tina McKinney, Author
JT: Tina, welcome to J.T.’s Book Corner and congratulations on your debut novel, All That Drama! Now that your debut is completed and on the streets, how are you feeling about it?
TM: I’m feeling great about it. I love going to signings and people telling me that they have already read my book. That’s a serious rush.
JT: How long has the writer’s bug been inside you, and when did you decide to nurture it?
TM: All my life. I started with poetry and I used to write short stories all the time. This is the first project that I ever finished.
JT: How long did it take you to complete All That Drama?
TM: It took me three months to write and another four months to have it edited and rewrites.
JT: Where did you get your inspiration to pen All That Drama, and are the characters based on people you know?
TM: All That Drama is based on a real life friend of mine. She plays the character of Sammie. Marie is me (sort of kind of). My friend didn’t do all the things that I said she did but she did a lot of them. Some things were just plain made up but she was my driving force.
JT: What advice would you give to up and coming authors?
TM: Don’t give up. This is a very hard business and you have to develop a thick skin. Shoot I still cry inside when I see a bad review but on the whole I think the struggle is worth it. My 2nd piece of advice is to do your homework and be careful whom you trust with your brainchild and your money.
JT: Which authors do you admire and which one in particular inspired you?
TM: Zane is my inspiration. I wrote this novel after reading Addicted. I remember thinking “I can do that” and I started writing it. Other authors I admire and love are Mary Monroe, Allison Hobbs, Darrien Lee, Mary Morrison, James Patterson, Robin Cook.
JT: As an author, where do you see your future?
TM: I hope to write full time in the near future. I believe enough in my craft to do it but I have to convince my husband we won’t starve! LOL
JT: What do you want your readers to come away with, after reading All That Drama?
TM: I want my readers to lover themselves before they begin to try to love others. I recently saw a review that said something about they was disappointed because Sammie never got better. The reality is that in life people don’t always mature and grow into responsible adults. But just cause Sammie didn’t get it in Marie’s timetable that’s not to say that she won’t get it some day.
JT: Are you working on another novel? If so, give us a little sneak peak…details, the juicy details.
TM: Lawd Mo’ Drama is the sequel and it is due to be released in November 2005. For a preview, please check out my site and read the first two chapters.
JT: Tina why people should read All That Drama?
TM: There is a lesson in this book for everyone. I touch on some real life issues and problems that some people deal with on a daily basis. I won’t say my novel is therapeutic but it’s good to know that you are not alone in your struggles. One lady even told me if helped her move on in life.
JT: All right, it's time to put you in JT's hot seat. Let's see if you can stand the heat with a little word association. Okay, I won't make the seat too hot for you. I’ll call out a name or phrase and give me the first thought that comes to your mind. Okay?
TM: Ok
JT: Favorite movie and why??
TM: Color Purple – I loved the way Whoopee fled the kitchen when her husband was cooking!
JT: Favorite author and why?
TM: Mary Monroe. Her characters are so vivid to me. She sucks me into her stories to a point I won’t read her books unless I have another on the shelf waiting to be read.
JT: What makes a good evening, writing your next novel or sex?
TM: Both. I write this hot scene and then go and try it out on my husband or vice versa.
JT: Writing a check to your favorite charity or donating your time at a homeless or shelter for abused women?
TM: Donating time would be my favorite. Prior to writing I searched for different facilities to donate my time. I got disenchanted when the shelters that I visited had their family members living there. I will resume my search soon.
JT: What is your favorite reward?
TM: A new reader!
JT: What advice would you give aspiring writers?
TM: Don’t give up, stay supportive, learn to listen and listen to learn. Realize the power we as authors have in unity. Read a good book and spread the word and always remain humble. And finally, remember spend more time uplifting this literary world and all of it’s participants.
JT: As a phenomenal African American woman, what struggles do you face daily and how do you overcome them?
TM: Balancing writing and being a wife and working full time is my biggest battle. I have to learn to give each equal time because they are all equally important. Of course, I want to kick the job to the curb but my pocketbook ain’t ready for that. So I try to ration out my time and slice of a piece of me for each aspect of my life.
JT: Where can people purchase your books and do you have a website?
TM: All That Drama is available practically everywhere. If it is not in a store near you, I am sure you can have them order it for you. It’s also available on line at Amazon, Borders and Barnes & Noble. My website is www.tinamckinney.com . I also send out signed copies from my site.
JT: Tina, thank you for a wonderful interview!
TM: No Jessica, thank you! When we both get time, I want to talk to you about writing something together. I know it will be hot!
JT: Tina, I’d like nothing more!
And Another Guy…
Nane Quartay, Author
JT: Nane, welcome to J.T.’s Book Corner. Make yourself comfortable and feel free to be as blunt and upfront as you’d like.
NQ: Much love for letting me into your corner. I’m grateful for the opportunity to speak with you.
JT: Let’s get the ‘typical’ question out of the way. How did your writing career come about? Did you always know you wanted to be a writer?
NQ: I came into writing a few years ago and, no, I didn’t always know that I wanted to be a writer - though I always thought that I could do it. I was always under the impression that writing was easy – after all, it was always easy to read! – but damn, was I wrong! Fortunately, I have a talent for writing so it is a labor of love and I’ve found that crafting fiction is a natural thing for me. My writing career started with a few creative writing classes that I attended at a community college. In fact, the first chapter of Feenin is the first attempt I ever made at creatively pulling a story out of my imagination.
JT: I would love a little peek into your current novel, Feenin. Tell me about it?
NQ: Feenin is the story of a young man, Tokus Stone, who struggles to overcome the burdens, hurdles and pitfalls of being a young, Black man in America. Abandoned as a teenager, he turns to a life of crime while pursuing the fruits of academia, a college degree that will allow him to escape his illegal way of life. But alas, his past comes back to haunt him when he finally obtains his degree and steps from one jungle, the hood, into the corporate jungle- where he encounters predators of a different nature and becomes ensnared in an ambush beyond his wildest nightmares.
JT: You have a new novel coming, The Badness, in May 2005. How does your upcoming novel differ from Feenin?
NQ: The Badness delves into mysticism, eroticism and suspense. Alias suffers from an age-old curse; a curse that he vows to break even if it costs him his life. D.Wayne’s traumatic childhood at the hands of his abusive mother have turned him into a demented killer following the voice of his god, Ruh, who leads him in a deadly search. Doin and Joozy feel separated from society but following a chance encounter with Alias, their imperfections draw them together and they find a love they thought was impossible. The tale of these four strangers ends in a shocking climax that brings an entire city to the brink of chaos.
JT: I ran a search for you on Google and you are all over the place. How has your experience in the literary industry been thus far?
NQ: The literary industry is tough. But I’m in pursuit of my dream…and that is what drives me. A pleasant surprise for me has been the support of Black readers. They have proven to me that the belief that ‘Black folks don’t support each other’ is a mere fallacy. I’d like to take this moment to thank each and every reader that has shown me nothing but love in my many travels. Much love, returned, for your support.
JT: What do you want people to come away with after reading your novel?
NQ: I people my stories with realistic characters and incorporate a message deep with social commentary because, as a race, there has been no other people whose existence has been commented upon like ours. I hope to stimulate meaningful dialogue and raise awareness while entertaining with realistic stories.
JT: Do you feel you grow as a writer with each novel?
NQ: With Feenin, I took baby steps. With The Badness I developed more literary muscle and powered my way through. As a result, I can’t wait until I hit my full stride; I’ll do a mad dash then! With each novel I strive to reach deeper, grow and mature until each story carries grown-man weight and power. And hit you right between your brain-lobes!
JT: I know your work is well received. Why do you think that is?
NQ: I approach each story like it’s a journey. And sometimes a journey can begin without your knowledge. It may come to you disguised as an artistic spark of imagination or maybe wrapped in the cloak of some urgent messenger. Or sometimes it may come to you blushing like a grand design embedded in the grand scheme of things… but in the end a good story is an exploration of the human condition. At the heart of this journey is a commonality that evokes a life experience that most readers can share with me. When that shared reality is touched, on a meaningful level, a strong journey has been traveled. A reader feels that.
JT: Let’s talk mentors for a moment. Who are your mentors and how have they supported your growth and development as a writer?
NQ: My mentors are composed of any writer that can tell a powerful tale. Authors ranging from Donald Goines (my personal favorite, who is purely fascinating with his realism, economy of words and ability to paint word tapestries) to Richard Wright, James Baldwin and Chester Himes. I also look up to authors who have come along and created their own niche when the industry said that their writing had no audience. Stephen King, Harold Robbins and Zane are all writers who achieved success despite the naysayers who placed boulders in their paths.
JT: What advice would you give to aspiring authors?
NQ: Rely on your talent to get you through the many rough spots that you will encounter. As a relative newcomer to this industry, I’ve found that my belief in myself is what I often have to use to sustain myself at the end of the day. Also bring a strong sense of perseverance to the party with you; a sense of purpose can be your light at the end of the tunnel. Even when a train is coming down the tracks – straight at you!
JT: As an author, what has been your biggest obstacle and how did you overcome it?
NQ: My inhibitions. I’m still seeking to overcome them.
JT: My most favorite questions are those asked to the author while they are seated in J.T.’s Hot Seat. This is the opportunity where our readers get to see the real you. Are you ready?
NQ: Brang it!
JT: Where were you born and raised?
NQ: Upstate New York.
JT: How do you define success?
NQ: The day my work seems like play.
JT: How do you deal with adversity and failure?
NQ: Work harder.
JT: Where do you see yourself in five years?
NQ: At least five books deeper into my career.
JT: What do you to do stay grounded and maintain a sense of balance in your life?
NQ: Look at my bills.
JT: I’m one who tries to avoid making the same mistakes of others. Has there been a significant life lesson for you?
NQ: Keep belief in your chest.
JT: Nane, it’s been great getting to know you. I hope to have you visit J.T.’s Book Corner again real soon!
A Sister-to-Sister Chat with Gayle Jackson Sloan
My first encounter with author Gayle Jackson Sloan was in the APOOO Yahoo! Group, exchanging writing tips, marketing and promoting ideas, and the like. Her warm personality, diva character traits and hilarious humor drew me in totally. I knew she was going to be one of my good author friends and I couldn’t wait to meet her!
October 2002, my opportunity arrived! I met Gayle at the APOOO literary event in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. We were there to promote our debut novels. We were terrified to read an excerpt of our books. More me than Gayle, because my book was totally nasty and the event was held in the annex of a church. But, we made it through our excerpts and had a blast mingling with avid readers and other author friends.
Needless to say, I am tickled to have Gayle in my corner. Gayle is a native of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, wife, mother and grandmother. She attended Philadelphia College of Textiles and Science (now Philadelphia University), where she studied interior design. She is currently a legal assistant at a prestigious Center City Philadelphia law firm, hoping one day to be a full time writer.
When Gayle is not busy teaching her grandchildren to say, “Nana is a Diva,” she enjoys listening to music, interior designing, surfing the net, reading, watching old movies and gardening.
JT: Ladies and gentlemen, the Boot Diva has graced J.T.’s Book Corner with her presence! All hail to the Queen Diva of Boots, author Gayle Jackson Sloan. Gayle, welcome, welcome, welcome! I’m excited to have you for a visit. Girlfriend, let’s chat.
For those who have yet to have the pleasure of meeting Gayle, you are in for a treat. The sister has a closet filled with fierce boots! I thought I had a serious boot fetish, but I have nothing on Gayle Jackson Sloan.
GJS: LOL Jess; you are a mess, girl! Thank you so much for having me join you in your corner. I'm honored.
JT: Gayle, how did your writing career come about? Did you always know you wanted to be a writer?
GJS: When I was younger I had thought about it, but life has a way of getting in the way. I started a book in 1989 and fiddled with it for a few years and finally left it alone out of frustration. However, in 2000 I started writing Saturday's Child and it was like I couldn't stop until I finished. I think it was my mother, who had passed, was pushing me to get it done. She had always been a big supporter of my writing. I also have a friend by the name of Lanie who stayed on my butt to get the book down. She was a major help.
JT: Saturday’s Child was originally self-published. What were some of the obstacles you faced as a self-published author?
GJS: Distribution, distribution, DISTRIBUTION!!! Did I mention distribution?
JT: Amen! Getting distribution can definitely an obstacle. As an author, one of our “responsibilities” is to help up and coming authors, as we were helped. What advice would you give to aspiring writers who are considering going the route of self-publishing?
GJS: Investigate your options and get you some bank before making that move. I was cash poor when I went that route, so I had to do it POD (print on demand), which is why I had a distribution problem. Had I created my own company and had been able to do a print run of a few thousand and then gotten with a distribution company, I think my numbers would have been much better.
JT: Well, your hard work as a self-published author has paid off. How did it feel when you signed your publishing deal with Black Print Publishing?
GJS: It felt wonderful at the time.
JT: What has been your biggest obstacle as an author?
GJS: Finding time to write. Since SC came out, I have changed firms and have been working sometimes 7 days a week, 10-12 hour days. When I'm home, I'm working or too tired to move.
JT: Let’s delve into your novels. For those folks who have not read your novels, could you give us a little insight on what you’re novels are about?
GJS: They are just stories about slices of life. People, who for whatever reason, have come together to tell their stories through me.
Saturday's Child is about a young lady who has had it with men. The main character, Sara, is resigned to being alone and raising her daughter without any help or support. However, when her best friend introduces her to an ex-con and her widowed uncle, life changes dramatically for Sara. One teaches her to not only learn to love again, but to love herself and the other teaches her the terror of obsession.
Wednesday’s Woes is focuses on Sara’s sister, Zoe. Zoe is divorced, has three children and a lover much younger than her. She is trying to get back on even footing after an injury at work and then is hit with a personal loss that forces her to question some things about herself. When she discovers her lover, Antonio has been keeping a deep secret, it throws her into a tailspin. However, the biggest secret may be from the person she most trusted, her best friend Tamika and she has to decide if their friendship is worth salvaging. For this Wednesday’s child, as her woes continue to mount, Zoe has to learn to see that maybe her blessings outweigh her sorrows!
Dancin’ In My Shoes is about a mother and her children’s struggle to understand each other. All Macy wants is for her three children to stand on their own two feet. However, her idea of what is right and theirs are two very different things. While she is somewhat satisfied with her two younger children, it is her oldest that gives her the most angst. It is anyone’s guess if they will ever learn to understand the other, let alone learn to respect each other’s opinions and views. In the end they may find that they are more alike than different. I am really just starting to write this one, so I am still in the discovery stage myself. LOL!
JT: Here are questions I’m sure you’ve been asked more than a dozen times. Are your novels based on real life experiences? If so, are your characters based on people you know?
GJS: I plead the Fifth! LOL Seriously, though, some of my characters are composites of people and relatives of mine. And I may have experienced a scene or too! LOL!
JT: What do you want people to come away with after reading your novels?
GJS: Wow, that’s a hard one. First and foremost, I hope they just enjoy the story and say that it kept them turning the pages. Second, I hope that maybe they learn to treat others as they want to be treated. That if they recognize a negative characteristic in one of my characters in themselves, they will try to be better people.
JT: Do you have mentors? If so, how have they supported your growth and development as a writer?
GJS: That was my mother, but she has passed away. She is still my daily inspiration and always my guardian angel. And you will always see bits and pieces of her in my books. If there is an older, wiser lady, you better believe that she is based on Nannett A. Jackson! My dream mentor would be Eric Jerome Dickey. I just love the way that man writes!
JT: Girl, give me back my dram mentor! I absolutely love Eric Jerome Dickey’s writing style. Okay, time for you to get comfortable in J.T.’s Hot Seat!
GJS: Uh-oh. LOL
JT: Tell us what it’s like being Gayle Jackson Sloan? What does your day consist of?
GJS: Work, work and more work. I work at one of the top plaintiff firms in Philadelphia that specializes in personal injury, medical malpractice, catastrophic loss and product liability (meaning if there was a case against Ford Motors, we would represent you, not Ford). Because of the type of firm it is, it leaves little to no personal time. I usually do 10 hours days there and then bring work home, as well as work on Saturday and Sunday. If we have a trial, then it’s worse! LOL!
JT: How do you define success?
GJS: Haven’t had it yet, but I would think a nice bank account helps! Or having someone say, “have you read such and such by Gayle Jackson Sloan,” and the other person doesn’t say “WHO?”
JT: How do you deal with adversity and failure?
GJS: Prayer and many personal conversations with God. Then I keep on gettin’ up.
JT: Black Men In America.com is not only geared toward the brothers, they have something for the sisters too. So, with that said, what do you think is the biggest challenge facing black women in today’s society?
GJS: That’s a toughie. I don’t feel qualified to answer this. There are so many, it is hard to pick one.
JT: I’m a firm believer of mistakes being lessons learned. Has there been a significant life lesson for you?
GJS: I am sure there have been many life lessons, but recently had two. The first came in the form of a 2 pound, 1 ounce baby girl by the name of Bianca Ariana Logan Worrell, my granddaughter. Watching that baby day after day struggle to stay alive has been a major life lesson. When she developed RSV, which is a severe respiratory viral infection, it was torture to watch her struggle to draw a breath. My husband couldn’t take it. He would run out of the neonatal unit with tears in his eyes. Not me. I would stay there and talk to her and tell her she came from a long line of strong, fighting black women and she was going to make it, oxygen tent and all. It was amazing to me that from the moment she was born, the minute someone would start to talk to her, she would stop crying, open her eyes and stare so intently at you like she understood every word. She is still in the hospital and has been since she was born on 12/9/04, but we are hopeful that she will come home soon. She taught me that all the little stuff that we sweat so intently is just that, little stuff. When your entire day consists of trying to get from one breath to the next, everything else is bullcrap.
The second was my daughter Rachel, Bianca’s mama. She had a blood clot from her leg to her stomach and almost died. Had she waited one more day to go to the hospital, she would not be here now. The lesson? Tell those that are important to you how much they mean, how much you appreciate them and how much you love them because tomorrow is promised to no one. This was really bought home when my granddaughter was born. She was born one day, and my son-in-law (not her father, my stepdaughter’s husband) died the next. He was 41.
JT: Whew, girl. You are having some trying times, but you still remain strong. I envy that in you.
Some authors write to entertain and some write to get across a point or a message. What about you…do you try to relay messages in your writings?
GJS: I write to entertain, mainly and if my readers go away with a message, it is a happy accident. However, I have been known to put a message or two in my books. With some of my upcoming novels, I will definitely be trying to get a message across.
JT: To stay grounded, I sit in a corner and mediate for an hour, or else I’ll go nuts. What do you do to stay grounded and maintain a sense of balance in your life?
GJS: When I’m really freaking out and just feeling overwhelmed, I listen to gospel music. It reminds me that there is He who is above everything and everyone and that helps to put things into perspective for me. When I just want to chill, I listen to R&B or contemporary jazz.
JT: Gayle, thank you so much! I wish you continued success…and from one sister friend to another, I’m proud of you, sis!
GJS: Right back at you Jess! You have been doing your thing and I love being able to tell people that I know you and what a great person you are!
JT: Aww shucks, thanks, sis!
If you would like to reach Gayle Jackson Sloan, please visit www.gaylejacksonsloan.com. Gayle’s novels are available at her Web site, on Amazon.com, Karibubooks.com, and bookstores everywhere!
Sheila Peele-Miller
Sheila Peele-Miller’s love for writing began at an early age. But, as with most authors, Terry McMillan’s Waiting to Exhale, was all she needed to step out on faith and introduce the world to her debut novel, Painted Picture.
Sheila is a member of R.A.W. Sistaz and several online writing groups (WritersRx, Real Sista Writers and SisterFriend Writers, to name a few). She juggles family life and writing well, and tells it all to J.T.
JT: Hey Sheila, welcome to J.T.’s Book Corner.
SPM: Thank you, Jessica, for having me.
JT: When did the writer’s bug bite you?
SPM: I have been writing forever — poetry and short stories as a young child. But it wasn’t until I was in my early 30’s when I read Waiting To Exhale by Terri McMillan, and thought wow! I can do that.
JT: Can you give me a sneak peek into Painted Picture?
SPM: Painted Picture is a dramatic novel that takes a look into the lives of Alicia and Derek Hendricks and the devastating issues that plague their marriage. She was born in a small town in North Carolina and comes from a pretty normal family. He was born an unwanted child and his family is the epitome of dysfunctional. Still he knew the moment he met her that Alicia was the one who could make all of the difference in his life. With her heart set on being everything Derek wants her to be, Alicia loses a large portion of herself in a desperate struggle to survive in his world of ups-and-downs-and-crazy-turnarounds when he allows his past hurts to endanger their future. In spite of the serious issues and deeper topics that will not stop coming up against them and the pain of it all, she is determined not to give up on him or their marriage. But when Derek’s mother drops in for an unexpected stay, family secrets are revealed that exposes yet another side of him and she must decide if she is gonna take another blow sitting down or come out fighting.
JT: Sheila, where do you get the inspiration for your characters?
SPM: From everyday people. I have been told by several of my readers that they know someone just like a lot of the characters in Painted Picture or that I have told their story. I listen to those speaking and watch people I am around and am always looking for somebody whom I can fit into one of my stories.
JT: Do you think creative writing is learned or a gift?
SPM: For me, it is a gift - a blessing. I learned how to drive a car- how to type- how to use the computer, etc. But writing is something I know I was born to do.
JT: What do you want your readers to come away with, after reading your novel?
SPM: Painted Picture touches on many issues that are too common to many of us, abuse being one of them. If one person could read my book and see themselves in the story and either get out of the situation they are in – or make a change for the better if they are the abuser- then that is a major accomplishment because I don’t care how you look at it or try to defend it- there is simply no excuse for abuse whether it be mental or physical. Because how can you say you love someone you are constantly hurting – which people do everyday.
JT: As an author, what has been your biggest obstacle?
SPM: Jessica, if I could I would write 24/7. Give me a cup of Starbucks coffee and sit me down at my computer, I am a very happy woman. But that is not happening as a mother, wife and grandmother. So finding time to actually write as much, and as often, as I would like to, has been my biggest problem.
JT: How do you deal with negative criticism?
SPM: In the beginning, when Painted Picture was just ideas on bits and pieces of paper, I would take negative criticism so personal that I would put my writing away and sit on it for months. Since I have matured, I have found that people aren’t going to always see things my way. So I try to take it with a smile because I love to write and have promised myself not to let anything or anybody interfere with what I am doing!
JT: Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?
SPM: Showing instead of telling. I want whoever is reading my book(s) to be able to visualize everything I write and there are lots of times when I have to rewrite scenes several times in order to bring them to life or it would be flat. And I hate flat…
JT: I absolutely love putting people in the hot seat because it is an excellent time for your readers to get to know the personal side of the author. Ready?
SPM: I’m bracing myself!
JT: Describe a typical day in the life of Sheila Peele-Miller.
SPM: A typical day for me is getting my 3 teenage boys up and off to school and my husband off to work. On extremely cold days I may drop them off. I take care of my personal stuff, say my prayers then I check my e-mail. I spend a load of time online and on the telephone- most of it having something to do with promoting Painted Picture. By me being unemployed, I often find myself running errands, paying bills, taking something to the school that either my kids or my niece forgot, watching my grand daughter for my son and his wife or taking my friend to chemotherapy. Plus one of my sons runs track so I try to make as many meets as I can. I write mostly at night when everyone is in the house settled or sleep. So I guess my day wouldn’t be typical if it wasn’t chaotic.
JT: What do you think women should know or do to have a healthy fulfilling relationship?
SPM: As women we need to wake up – no offense to anyone – but there are certain things that we do not have to take in a relationship i.e. being slapped upside our heads on a daily basis, being talked to like we are stupid, handing over our entire paycheck, and a lot of the times, we see the warning signs but choose to ignore them. So we have to start being more responsible for ourselves. Too many of us don’t want to be alone or think we are a failure if we don’t have a man in our lives. But I say, what good is a man if he treats you like crap. So I think the key to any healthy relationship is communicating first of all and respect – giving it and earning it.
JT: What is it that people don’t get about you?
SPM: How much I just want to be who I am. Many would say what does she mean- I just want to be me. I love simple things. I don’t like a lot of drama and controversy. I like down time – my privacy. I can be complacent in my house in my space doing my thing or spending time with my family. I don’t want to be rich – just comfortable – happy with who I am. And many look at me like I’m crazy when I say that.
JT: If you didn’t have to worry about money or resources, what would you do with your life?
SPM: Write and paint. Or maybe go to a foreign country and teach people how to read and write.
JT: How do you define success?
SPM: Being happy with who you are. Knowing who you are and most of all knowing how to treat people and accepting that everything is not going to be your way all the time. Then everything else should fall into place.
JT: Okay, one last question. If you could have dinner with one person, living or dead, who would it be and why?
SPM: Malcolm X. His story, his focus, the man just fascinates me and I think I could sit and listen to him talk all day long. But then and again, I have a lot questions I would like to ask Jesus…
JT: Well, Sheila thanks for a great time! Let everyone know where they can reach you and purchase your books.
SPM: Thank you, Jessica. It has been my pleasure doing this interview with you and I wish you much success in your writing career. For those interested in Painted Picture, it can be purchased online at www.sheilapmiller.com/ www.authorhouse.com/ www.amazon.com and major bookstores nationwide. For autograph copies – just send 18.75 which includes shipping and handling to Sheila Miller / P.O.BOX 60906 /Chicago, IL.
J.T. Chats with Lola Akua Thompson
JT: Lola, welcome to J.T.’s Book Corner!
LT: Thank you Jessica for having me.
JT: It’s wonderful to have you here, sis! How long has the writer’s bug been inside you, and when did you decide to nurture it?
LT: Wow, it started a long time ago. It started as a child; my journal was my confidante, my hiding place for my secrets and dreams. I truly only decided to pursue writing seriously, about 8 years ago.
JT: Give us a little sneak peek into your work.
LT: Well, even though my virgin publication is “Locked Up and Set Free” and it happens to be a poetry book, I am eager to unveil a number of different writing projects to include, fiction, and several stage and screen plays. It’s funny, I have this dry NY sort of humor and I thought that was what my work would mostly reflect, however most of my pieces have developed into being mostly drama, and black comedy …with a little of that Brooklyn, NY grittiness that is still a part of me.
JT: Where did you get your inspiration to pen your poetry, and are they based on real life experiences?
LT: My inspiration came and continues to come from what I see around me. Most of my work stems from a desire to enlighten and stimulate ones perceptions. From the beginning of this I have been determined to give people a peek inside of me, and my mind in order for them to examine their lives and the world with a different lens.
JT: What advice would you give to up and coming authors?
LT: The most valuable advice would be to never deviate from what moves and motivates you to write. If you do, your source will run out and there will be nothing else to say. Also, never think that what you have to share is only for you. I believe that absolutely every word put onto paper and filtered out into to universe has a home; there is a spirit that will receive it, benefit from it and grow from it.
JT: Which authors do you admire and which one in particular inspired you?
LT: I know it sounds corny, but Maya Angelou. Every one says her I know, when it comes to poetry, but…to me, she is the epitome of writing from the soul, and doing it your way. She never compromises. She is powerful, and deep, yet any one can relate to her words.
JT: What do you want your readers to come away with after reading your work?
LT: Jessica, if I never hit a best sellers list, or experienced fame or fortune from this writing experience, it would still be worth it if my work motivates and empowers. If I only inspired one child to try a little harder and be confident, prevented one less man from feeling defeated, or gave one sister the courage and presence of mind to live her life like no one was watching…well then, I would be happy knowing that I did my do. Ya know what I mean Sis.
JT: Are you working on another novel? If so, give us a little sneak peak…details, the juicy details.
LT: Yes, It is called “How Not to be Married by Your 36th Birthday.” It is a comical, but real look at how as women we can get caught up running after the perfect man, to save us, to make us whole, and usually with all the wrong behaviors and tactics. Instead of just living and doing us, we embrace false truths and notions about men and what they want and need. We reduce what we expect and will accept from them and then blame he world for it. Trust me Sis, if anyone knows now not to be married by their 36th birthday, I DO!
JT: Lola, why should people read your work?
LT: My work should be read simply because its purpose is to help heal, to help us grow, and to reconnect us all to recognizing our best life and how to effectively live it. The key to that is simply realizing that no mission and journey is complete with out pitfalls. Who we become when we pick ourselves up, is the important part.
JT: All right, it's time to put you in J.T.'s hot seat. Let's see if you can stand the heat with a little word association. I’ll call out a name or phrase and give me the first thought that comes to your mind. Okay?
LT: Sounds like a winner to me Jess.
JT: What makes a good evening, writing your next novel or sex?
LT: Haa! How about reading chapters of a good novel to each other and have it lead to GREAT SEX!
JT: What is a typical day for Lola “Akua” Thompson?
LT: Beginning my day in prayer and meditation, Making sure my little man is set for his day, working with DC area youth to help them pursue their dreams, and getting everything done while running my publishing company, Soroma Company. Then my evenings are spent with my son and lastly, writing late into the night.
JT: How do you define success?
LT: For me, success is knowing that at the end of everyday, and at the end of this middle passage we call life, that I have done my best to touch as many lives as I could. It means being able to rest easy at night because I was apart of the solution and not the problem. And finally, it means having peace and faith that each breath I took and each step I traveled…was for a purpose. Yeah, knowing that my life has purpose is what success is to me.
JT: What do you feel are some obstacles facing black women in the literary industry?
LT: I truly believe that in life, you get what you expect not what you want. That being the case, though there are legitimate barriers and obstacles that face us as black women in the literary world. Even with that as a fact, I feel that if we decided to look at this thing as more of a collective effort and reinvest our monies and time in assisting other up and coming new authors, we would have different results. We need to always remember when we were there. We need to be more like you Jessica. You have shown me a sincere and giving example of how to help others in this industry. I will take that and spread it; I will do the same with young women who come to me for guidance.
JT: As an African American woman, what are some obstacles you face and what can be done to change them?
LT: My biggest obstacles are within myself, they center around maintaining my faith, being persistent, resilient and focused. If and when I relent to outside variables, that is when, and only when obstacles can take my dream from me.
JT: Lola, thanks for a wonderful interview! Where can folks pick up copies of your work?
LT: No Jessica, thank you. This has been a sincere pleasure and most welcomed. As for my book, “Locked Up and Set Free” at this time, my book can be purchased on my website www.soromaco.com , however it will be available in starting in April on Amazon.com and Barnesandnoble.com.
So what do you think? If you would like to respond to this article click here and sign our Guestbook to leave a public or private comment.
Eric Pete: Can’t Stop! Won’t Stop! Believe That!
What is Eric Pete’s claim to fame? He is the best-selling, award-winning author of Real for Me, Someone’s in the Kitchen (J.T.’s favorite), Gets No Love, as well as two anthologies, Twilight Moods and After Hours. He's an all-around great guy, witty, charming, husband, father, a huge motivator and supporter of fellow authors and a talented writer.
Get comfy and grab your fan. Eric is on fire!
JT: Hey there, Mr. Pete. Welcome to J.T.’s Book Corner. You know how I roll. So, sit back, make yourself comfy and let’s get our chat on. Shall we?
EP: Uh oh. Should I put my seatbelt on? *Click*
JT: Eric, my first experience with you was Someone’s in the Kitchen, and I loved it. My second experience with you was learning how much of a fun person you are. Your charisma and personality shines on your web site (www.ericpete.com). With that said, I’d like to heat you up in J.T.’s Hot Seat first.
EP: Glad you were feeling Someone’s In the Kitchen. I got to cut loose with that one. As far as the website, amazing what a web mistress and a magician for a photographer can do, huh? Okay. I’m ready. Let’s go!
JT: What is a typical day for Eric Pete?
EP: Typical? Ha! No day is typical except for checking my e-mail before going to my weekday job and doing all the other stuff a husband and father does. I try to squeeze in the writing somewhere in the middle of the chaos.
JT: I close myself behind closed doors. How do you write?
EP: I write in our guest bedroom/den/office. One day, when I’m a big boy, I’ll have a real office. Most of my writing is done at night and on weekends if I’m not touring. I find myself to be at my most creative after hours. I can have the TV on, but like to have a little music playing on the computer.
JT: While writing, do you think about how your words may affect readers?
EP: Honestly, no. I write for the story to tell itself. I may go back and look at things with a different eye later, but try not to second-guess what the characters are saying to me or how someone may take it.
JT: Someone once told me I should write to educate the community. Do you believe, as a writer, it is your place to educate, as well as entertain readers?
EP: Personally, I hate being preached to or beat over the head with a message when reading. I prefer writing to entertain and let the characters’ experiences educate by what they go through. Readers will take so many different things from a story, y’know? It’s fun to see which characters (and experiences) they identify with and gravitate to.
JT: What has been your biggest obstacle as an author?
EP: Hmm. Good question. It’s hard to say. I’m still on this journey and that opinion changes from month to month. Sometimes I wish I had the finances or support to tour and advertise/market more extensively than I do. The Internet has helped a lot with combating this. This month, I’d say my biggest obstacle is dealing with the distractions that keep me from writing as vigorously as I’d like.
JT: Do you have mentors? If so, how have they supported your growth and development as a writer?
EP: I wouldn’t call them mentors but I do look to my peers for support and camaraderie and/or who’ve shown the way in how they carry themselves or how they’ve done things. People like Karen E. Quinones Miller, Kimberla Lawson Roby, Dwayne S. Joseph, Victoria Christopher Murray, C. Kelly Robinson and Victor McGlothin are some who come to mind. They’ve each taught me something different and aren’t afraid to tell it like it is. These are just a few, but too many authors to name have inspired me by simply telling good tales.
JT: How difficult, if at all, was it for you to get a book deal?
EP: It wasn’t easy. I started out self-published, as you know, and that can take a toll financially. I spent many years out on the road touring to build up my readership base before finding the right agent and securing a deal with a major publisher. The work doesn’t stop there. The same thing you did to get signed, you have to keep doing.
JT: Why do you think your writing is so well received?
EP: I’d like to think I bring realness to my characters that people pick up on. Sounds pretty generic, huh? *Laugh* I like to take everyday people and show that their lives can be just as wild, hot, troubled, or interesting as someone they see plastered all over the TVs they watch and magazines they read. We all have a story to tell. Sometimes, it’s the quiet ones who’ve led deafening lives.
JT: Okay, let’s cool down a bit. Tell me about your novels?
EP: I’ll start at the beginning. Real for Me deals with people searching for what is “real” for them, which may not always be what they think. It’s set in Los Angeles and is told from the male/female perspective. Next came, Someone’s In the Kitchen, which was my chance to get dark and nasty. Was it fun? Hell yeah. It’s set in Houston and is told through the eyes of two friends who couldn’t be more opposite. My newest baby, Gets No Love, is a tale set in The Big Easy and deals with redemption and secrets. It has more of an urban edge to it, as one of the characters is a rapper on the verge of superstardom.
I’ll let you in on a little secret. My next novel (October 2005) is Don’t Get It Twisted and is as twisted as its title.
JT: Can’t wait to get my hands on Don’t Get It Twisted. How do you come up with a book idea?
EP: Out of all these weird little movies and concepts flying around in my head, I just pluck one and take an in-depth look at it to see if it would actually work on paper. Some ideas work best as short stories. Some short story thoughts wind up taking root and growing into novels.
JT: Do you base your characters on real life people?
EP: My characters are fictional, but I do take personality traits/mannerisms from different people and graft them on. The characters usually wind up growing beyond what I planned for them initially.
JT: What do you want readers to come away with, after reading your novels?
EP: That you should read the next one…and the next one…and beat up your local bookseller until they get my new book in. Seriously though, I don’t condone violence against booksellers. Just wait patiently on their doorstep. They’ll get the point after a few days. Okay! Okay! I’ll stop playing.
I want readers to come away entertained and to feel some sort of emotions toward the characters, whether love or hate. I want them to feel they know these people and that perhaps…just perhaps they learned something about the world or themselves because of them.
JT: Oops, I forgot to sneak in a question pertaining to Black Men In America.com. As a black man, what do you think are your biggest challenges?
EP: Trying to maintain a positive outlook and focus in spite of the obstacles, distractions, and pitfalls we have historically inherited. Life is too short to be dictated by a feeling of victimization, so we have to look within ourselves to where we can go and not let nay-sayers with negative energy keep us down.
JT: What advice would you give aspiring writers?
EP: Write because you love it, but be prepared for the business end if your goal is to be published. I hear it so often, and it’s true. Once you’ve written your book THEN the hard work begins. Can I get an Amen, J.T.?
JT: Amen, amen, amen, and a you-ain’t-never-lied, Eric! Okay, one last question. What do you do to stay grounded and maintain a sense of balance in your life?
EP: My friends and family help me with my sense of balance. They’ll be around whether or not this book stuff is here. I stay grounded by never taking myself too serious (as you can tell from this interview).
JT: Eric, you’re the best! Thanks for taking the time to chat with me. Where can your books be purchased? And, do you have any last words?
EP: No, thank you, J.T.! . My books can be purchased at your local bookstore or online at such places as Amazon.com , theblacklibrary.com, cushcity.com, and bn.com. Also, Gets No Love is available in almost all stores including Wal-Mart. Just ask for them by name. If more info is needed, people can always stop by my web site: www.ericpete.com . Last words? Like the little guy Thirst in the Sprite commercials says, “Show them my motto!” Can’t stop. Won’t stop. Believe that.
J.T. Shoots the Breeze with Author Nathanial Portis
“I think everyone in life has a story to tell where they were the victim and life was unfair to them. Rich, poor, old, young, fat, thin, and black or white we all have a story to tell. For some of us, our stories are more dramatic than others, but in the end all that matters is how or if we get past those situations or do we let them affect the rest of our lives.” — Nathanial Portis, author of Things IN Between.
Someone once said, “Jessica, close your mouth and listen. The best way to get to know someone is through his own words.” So, I closed my mouth, opened my ears and learned about the man behind "Things In Between." I invite you to do the same. Clear your mind and take it all in. Nathanial has a lot to say!
JT: Nathanial, welcome J.T.’s Book Corner, and congratulations on a successful debut novel.
NP: Thank you for having me here.
JT: Okay, so tell me, what is Things In Between about?
NP: Well first let me explain the title of Things IN Between. People set goals and we look at our goals and hope we can accomplish them. The goals we set are often wanted so badly that nothing can stop us from reaching them except the Things IN Between, I refer to the things In between as life’s unexpected issues that come up when we are least prepared to deal with them, you know the car breaking down while you’re running late to work and you have no sick or vacation time left to call in, or a single mother who’s babysitter moved out of town a few days prior without giving any notice and now she has to use bill money to pay for the expensive daycare.
The Things IN Between are always unexpected but once/if they are handled with a positive outcome then those things can seem so small that you forgot about them but at the time they arise they were so serious that they could make or break the goal from ever happening.
The main character is a young man who the readers will feel a strong connection with; almost as if this were your little brother that you watched grow up into a man, what makes this book so great other than the wonderful story line that will have you hooked from the beginning; are the characters who are introduced that readers will love: Cameron’s drug addicted mother (Darleen), Darleen’s boyfriend and aging street hustler (Charles), Cameron’s best friend and the bad boy (Rayshawn) who has some point of views that will make the female readers hate but may identify with secretly. The Characters bring some real life issues to life and readers will relish in their situations.
JT: Where did you get the inspiration to write Things IN Between?
NP: About 75 percent of the book is fictional but there are some real world situations in the book that deal with myself, I would love to say that I based Cameron on my life but I don’t think I would have been half as strong of a person in dealing with some of the things he had to deal with if it were actually me. I think the inspiration came from just the real world factory not necessarily in my life but what I see going on today I wanted to write a story line that would show the various different types of black men in the world today, and to give them all a voice, too often we get narrowed down to one specific type of “Black Man” in Things IN Between you will see the good boy who wants better (Cameron) the old played out hustler (Charles) and the bad boy (Rayshawn), you will also see a few of the women they deal with and some other characters who show up.
JT: Are your characters fictional, or are they based on people you know?
NP: My characters are fictional in my mind because I made them up although I think all writers put a little of them selves in all their work and my family and friends who know me may read Things IN Between and say that I am Cameron but I don’t see that at all, I think Cameron is the person who I always tried to be like, and Rayshawn is the alter ego of who I always tried to be like.
JT: In Things IN Between, there is a chapter where Cameron and Talana are experiencing each other in the shower of a hotel’s bathroom? The scene was very vivid and real to life. Was this scene taken from a personal event in your life?
NP: I’m laughing right now because that sex scene is one that I get asked about often, and since I don’t want to send out any royalty checks to any of my ex-girl friends I think I better plead the fifth on that one.
JT: On that note, let’s move right moving right along. As an author, I can write a book in a matter of months. What about you? How long did it take you to write Things IN Between?
NP: Things IN Between took me about nine months to write, however I mapped the characters out in my head first for about a year prior to that, then I sat down at my P.C. and completed it. The development of the characters are what always takes me the longest to complete because I want my characters and their situations to be as real as possible, all of their conversations have to fit them and their environment.
Right now I’m working on my next novel title GigoloMan and the main character is a male escort and a Law School student and his character has two switch between being a romantic ladies man catering to wealthy rich ladies to hanging out with his college buddies in the law school commons and keeping the situations real in that story line has been a real challenge.
JT: Is there another novel in the works?
NP: Yes, there are three novels in the works the first is as I mentioned titled GigoloMan which will be released the end of 2005, about a young man who works his way as a male escort catering to the movers and shakers of DC, the other is based off the Character Charles from Things IN Between, the last is a story about a single mother who has a ten year relationship with a married man.
JT: What advice would you give aspiring authors?
NP: My advice to aspiring authors is don’t talk about it, just do it and this publishing thing is not an easy thing to tackle if you are doing it on your own. It takes time, money and a lot of commitment. Everyone is out to make money off of your work. At every book signing I go to I have someone come to me and tell me that they are writing a book and I wonder if they know what is truly involved.
JT: Nathanial, tell me why people should reading Things IN Between?
NP: Things IN Between deals with so many issues it not only talks about the characters but they come to life and you will get a connection with them; a woman who read my book approached me and told me that she could never relate to a grown man not working and living off of a woman, she said she identified with the character Darleen when she called her boyfriend sorry A** and told him to “bring some money into the house or get hell out” she said she identified with the character Darleen until what happen next with Charles, she said prior to her reading that chapter she had never looked at life from his perspective.
And that is what I do for all the characters in my book, you can relate to all the Characters and you will have an understanding about what their story in life is.
JT: Do you think creative writing is learned or a gift?
NP: It surely is a gift from God; I hated English and Literature in school. I am a Math and Science major but I can think up the best story lines you could imagine and put them on paper.
JT: Each author who enters my den has to warm up in the hot seat. I’ll try not to make too hot, but from reading Things IN Between, I have a feeling you can handle the heat!
NP: Uh owe.
JT: What is a normal day for Nathanial Portis?
NP: A normal day for me is waking up at 5 am thanking God for giving me life for another day, shower dress do all the hygiene stuff, do the Oatmeal thing every morning, and pull out to a day of work, I usually get home about 6 pm check my email talk with my publicist about any signings or events in the working, then about 7:30 pm I change cloths go to the gym for about an hour-half where I do cardio for 30 minutes and weights for about 45, head back home and hit the shower again (yea I’m a water waster I shower twice a day). I spend about an hour or two writing or editing existing material, and then I hit the bed.
JT: What was your most embarrassing moment?
NP: Ok that would be the time when I had just started my first job right out of college for this huge corporation and I went into the packed cafeteria at lunch and they had fish and shrimp, and burgers on the menu. I decided to get a burger and on my way out I saw the desert stand with Chocolate pudding, Tapioca pudding, Yellow cake, Jell-O and various dressings and ketchup; all sitting on ICE so I decided to get some Tapioca Pudding (I love that stuff), well I pilled about four huge spoon full of the Tapioca Pudding into a bowel then headed to the long line of people waiting to pay for their food, as I sat my food down in front of the register I asked the cashier if I needed to weigh the bowel (referring to my huge bowel of Tapioca Pudding) the woman looked at me kind of funny and asked me what I was going to do with it, and I told her I was going to eat it and I gave her a mean snare for her questioning my actions regarding my food, then she told me that I didn’t have to pay for the tarter sauce, it was complementary. I couldn’t believe that what I thought was Tapioca Pudding was actually tarter sauce I couldn’t help but add into in the laughter of the co-workers standing in line behind me.
JT: For you, what is love?
NP: I think love is accepting a persons faults, I don’t think you can love a person until you can accept their faults in addition to their positives. I think a lot of people fall in love with a person after a few months of dating them but I personally don’t think that’s possible.
In my opinion, unless you have seen a person’s entire fault in various situations then you can’t truly love a person. When we first meet our mates we fall in love for all of their positive attributes, (laughter, money, success, sweetness, physical attributes etc) but its not until after we have seen them in the bad situations that we don’t admire can we truly know them. Once we have seen their negative attributes (Anger, money issues, failure, loneliness, weight gain, etc) once we have seen all of those negative attributes then if we can still say I want to be with this person because I love them, then that is in my opinion when we have found true Love.
JT: If money were no object, and you could travel anywhere in the world tomorrow, where would you go?
NP: Wow, I would go to Ghana on the content of Africa, I have worked with a few people from Ghana and they all just seem like cool friendly people.
JT: If you could have dinner with two people, living or dead, who would it be, and why?
NP: I would love to have a dinner with Dr Condoleezza Rice, she seems so bright and I would love to pick her brain a little and find out what’s really going on. The other person would be Madame CJ Walker who was the first Black woman Millionaire. I just would like to have seen how business smart she was I think she would have had to of been pretty smart to be successful in her time; I would love to see a movie made about her and have Oprah Winfrey play her role.
JT: What do you do to stay grounded and maintain a sense of balance in your life?
NP: I volunteer at various organizations and mentor kids, exercise and eat healthy.
JT: How do you define success?
NP: Success is defined independently by you, a person may see the fact that if my book becomes New York Times best seller that it would be a success, another may say if I make Oprah’s book club that my book will become a success. In my opinion if one person reads my book and identifies with the characters in the way that I intended for them to, then to me my book was a success.
JT: What are the greatest challenges facing Black men in America?
NP: Well, I cant speak for every Black Man in America but I can speak for myself and what I have seen in the Black men who I communicate with on a personal level, I think for us there are various challenges and they occur for different men in different life styles and at different income levels I think for men who make little or less money than their wives; I think respect is the biggest challenge for them, kind of like the character Charles in Things IN Between when his girl friend Darleen was giving him a lot of disrespect and yelling at him about not bringing in enough money into the house, that was a big challenge for him and other men in his situation.
However, for men who make decent money and money is not an outlining factor, I think self identify is a big challenge, I see a lot of successful men either become very arrogant, materialistic, or womanizers after they have found a woman who is good, and that can be a challenge.
JT: Where do you see yourself five years from now?
NP: In five years I will probably have published a few more novels, I doubt if I will sign on with a huge publishing company, I enjoy having my own publishing company and being able to manage my own work.
JT: Sex or a good book?
NP: Umm why not both? I’m more of a writer than a reader so I would go with the first choice.
JT: Chocolate or whip cream?
NP: I’m a whip cream guy
JT: One last question. Is there anything about you or your views you would like people to know?
NP: I write for the people, my book is distributed by my publishing company, and I never sent my book out to any major Publishers and I didn’t send it out because I didn’t think my books would be accepted, but I didn’t send them because I wanted to do everything from my personal. What you read is directly from me. I put serous thought time and emotion into all of my work because I want you to love my work.
JT: Well done, Nathanial. Where can people purchase Things IN Between?
NP: No problem and again thanks for having me as a guest Things IN Between can be ordered in your local bookstore, its also available on www.Nathanialportis.com, www.Amazon.com, and www.BN.com
Delores Thornton — author, publisher, columnist, radio talk show host, mother, grandmother, voted Literary Queen of 2003 by C&B Distribution, active in several writing organizations, attending seminary school — where on earth does she find the time to breathe, let alone write?Delores Thornton is the critically acclaimed author of Anybody Seen Junebug? With several novels in print: Ida Mae, Ida Mae: The Saga Continues, Divine Appointment: A Caregiver’s Guide, and her 2005 soon –to-be-released novel, Airing Dirty Laundry, Delores has a lot of wisdom and stories to weave that will give her fans a lifetime of enjoyment.
Now, I invite J.T.’s Book Corner readers to take this opportunity to get to know the warm, caring soul of Delores Thornton. After reading her interview, you will see she is admired and loved by many of her peers.
JT: Delores, it is a pleasure to welcome a veteran author into J.T.’s Book Corner!
DT: Hey, Jessica, the pleasure is all mine.
JT: Delores, you have a lot going on. You’re an author, publisher, columnist, radio host, baker and candlestick maker! When do you find the time to breathe?
DT: I am quite busy, but I do sleep 8 hours each night! And, it is well-deserved rest.
JT: Had you always wanted to be an author? If so, can you think back to when you attempted to write your first work?
DT: Actually, I never thought of being a writer, although I was always an avid reader. My mother taught me to read at age four, and I read bubble-gum wrappers, ads on cereal boxes and anything else I could get my hands on.
JT: You founded Marguerite Press in 1996. What were some of the obstacles you faced as a publisher?
DT: I decided to self-publish my books, and there have been stressful moments, but I’ve persevered. It was difficult wearing all the hats, i.e., publicist, promoter, and marketer.
JT: What has been your biggest obstacle as an author?
DT: Finding the time to write has been the greatest obstacle for me, for not only do I publish my own books, but I act as a book promoter for other authors. Then, I review books for Blackrefer.com, and I have three Internet radio shows. Since I’m attending classes at Simmons Bible College, in Indianapolis, I don’t have a lot of time left for writing, which is my first love.
JT: You have so many novels, could you give us a little insight on them?
DT: Ida Mae, winner of the UBUS Black Book of the Year 2000 Award, is story about rape, racism, courage, and trans-racial adoption. This tale of Historical Fiction spans seventy-one years from 1948 - 2019.
Babe voted "Book of the Year 2003" by Bookcrazy Radio
Set in Indianapolis, Babe is the story of an eighty-two year old African American woman who is experiencing headaches and nightmares. Her daughter, Valeeda, has her examined by the family physician that determines that she is physically sound. At the doctor's recommendation, a psychiatrist is called and hypnosis is suggested. Through this process her whole life unfolds - all the way back to the age of five, when she witnessed a lynching in her native Georgia. Other characters are... Vivian Delaney, an aspiring author on tour; Dorian Simmons, a union steward at the US Postal Service; and Aloyishus Burns, a recovering alcoholic. They are bringing major issues to the table, but it is Babe who will tell the cogent story that will never let you forget her!Anybody Seen Junebug? Release date February 2003, winner of the “Disilgold Book of the Year 2004.”
In an attempt to hold on to his deceased grandmother Junebug has become her. But not only her, but also other ancestors she's told him about. There is a fine line between a broken heart and a shattered mind. Junebug has crossed it! Can anybody reach him? Has 'Anybody Seen Junebug?'Divine Appointment: A Caregiver’s Guide, is my personal story. It contains short-short stories and anecdotes, as well as legal, medical, and psychological information. I spent countless hours interviewing caregivers and although I don’t know all that there is to know about this subject, what I do know I freely share. I was thrust into a caregiver’s world in which I knew nothing and I had to learn quickly. I prayed to God for answers, and his replies are contained in this guide.
How To Self-publish That Great Novel: Without Going Nuts!, will be released by my company, Marguerite Press, in June 2005. For years I’ve written online and offline columns about self-publishing, but there is still a need for updated material.
Airing Dirty Linen, will launch in August 2005. Read the short excerpt below:
To the casual observer it might have appeared that the Dobson family had healed with suddenness. In actuality that couldn’t have been further from the truth. The four cousins had seen their share of misery and had been the subject of all types of investigations. When their parents died, they inherited loads of money and invested it wisely--in a lavish bed and breakfast on picturesque Allisonville Place. Yet the problems didn’t end. The bed and breakfast had plenty of walk-in closets, each with its own share of skeletons. But, they were a private group, and private things rarely got out.
Musical CD, written, arranged and performed by the Exact Change Band contains the songs Ida Mae, Babe, Anybody Seen Junebug?, and Divine Appointment. The CD may ONLY be purchased through Marguerite Press. I started offering companion tapes years ago and fans loved them so well, so I’ve switched to CD’s to keep up with technology!
JT: Here are questions I’m sure you’ve been asked more than a dozen times. Are your novels based on real life experiences? If so, are your characters based on people you know?
DT: Normally, I do a character sketch, then develop my characters, then they tell their own stories. I have found that I use a lot of everyday experiences in my writing, so some of my characters are people I’ve known, even though I embellish stories and events.
JT: What do you want people to come away with after reading your novels?
DT: In all my books I challenge readers to look past the outward appearance of people. Oftentimes people are struggling with issues, which need attention, and we should be patient when dealing with them.
JT: Do you have mentors? If so, how have they supported your growth and development as a writer?
DT: I don’t have any mentors, but I do serve as a mentor to many authors. However, several writers, most notably; Zora Neale Hurston, Toni Morrison, J. California Cooper, and newcomer, Maxine Thompson, have influenced me.
JT: Why do you think your writing is so well received?
DT: I’d like to think it’s because I writing endearing stories in which people can see themselves and/or their loved ones.
JT: Okay, time for you to get comfortable in J.T.’s Hot Seat!
DT: Okey, dokey!
JT: What does Delores Thornton do as soon as her feet hit the floor in the morning?
DT: I say my prayers, get in the shower, check email messages, do online banking and contact members of my various promotional groups, then fix my breakfast. You know I’m the Executive Director of Indianapolis Book Fest, Incorporated, so I start contacting potential sponsors and check with the heads of our various committees. Then I study for class, write a little, if time permits, and then prepare dinner.
JT: How do you define success?
DT: To me success is being able to HELP somebody. It’s not having a three-book deal, or even having the number one best seller.
JT: How do you deal with adversity and failure?
DT: That’s hard to say, for I’ve never experienced failure! I feel that with every setback, God is getting me ready for a comeback. I have run across people who were so obnoxious, all I could do was pray for them.
JT: Black Men In America.com is not only geared toward the brothers, they have something for the sisters too. So, with that said, what do you think is the biggest challenge facing black women in the literary industry?
DT: I think sisters should try harder to work together, instead of tearing each other down. Men always seem to bond so much better than women, and they don’t have a lot of the petty hang-ups we tend to have.
JT: I’m a firm believer of mistakes being lessons learned. Has there been a significant life lesson for you?
DT: I think the hardest thing I had to learn was that people will go out of their way to hurt you, for no apparent reason! Now that I know what to look out for, I’m more selective with the people I allow to occupy space in my life.
JT: Some authors write to entertain and some write to get across a point or a message. What about you…do you try to relay messages in your writings?
DT: I always try to address current issues in my writing, although I want readers to entertained, as well as, educated by my offerings.
JT: With so much going on in your life, how do you stay grounded and maintain a sense of balance?
DT: I stay in constant prayer!!
JT: Delores, this has been a pleasure. Thanks so much!
DT: God Bless You, Jessica.
So what do you think? If you would like to respond to this article click here and sign our Guestbook to leave a public or private comment.
Chatting with Sydney Molaré
Who is Sydney Molare’? Well, she’s one of my favorite people and has a smile that will brighten any room. She’s a woman of character, with a gentle, passionate soul, who remains true to her craft, and has been quite busy.
I think Brenda Tillman of the Jackson Mississippi Readers Club put it best when she said, “All I can say is Somewhere In America people are Changing Places/Changing Faces and receiving Small Packages that I don’t know what to do with! If you have not read these books or heard of the author, you are in for a treat that will satisfy your mind, soul and body.”
I enjoyed my chat with Sydney and I hope you will too!
JT: Sydney, welcome to J.T.’s Book Corner!
SM: Hey Jessica, it’s wonderful to be here!
JT: It’s wonderful to have you here, sis! How long has the writer’s bug been inside you, and when did you decide to nurture it?
SM: I’ve been on the writing path for 3 years. Before then, most of my experience was writing proposals for work. I actually “fell” into writing. My marriage was breaking down and writing was the way I relieved my stress. Thank goodness, otherwise this interview might be from the state penitentiary.
JT: Oh my…so glad you put pen to paper, instead of knife to neck! Give us a little sneak peek into your novels?
SM: I have four. “Somewhere In America” is a humorous short story collection that will have you in stitches but at the same time leave you thinking, Hmmmmm… “Changing Faces, Changing Places” is an ‘erotic thriller’ centered around a very popular college athlete. In the end, everyone is surprised at who’s in love with whom. “Small Packages” is an intertwined sister-girlfriend/lust story. A bookclub is reading a hot new manuscript at their monthly sleepover. While they read, the reader gets a glimpse into their lives as they tell all their business! “Grandmama’s Mojo Still Working” is a coming-of-age tale surrounding a young lady and her feisty grandmother. And is the grandmother feisty? One of her statements is, and I quote, ‘Anything dead needs to be buried and ain’t nothing dead on me!’ See what I mean? I wrote this one to promote self-love and self-esteem in ladies young and old.
JT: Where did you get your inspiration to pen your novels, and are they based on people you know?
SM: Inspiration is around every corner! Honestly, I have so many partial stories on my computer and thumping around in my head, I hope I live long enough to pen them all. All my characters are composites. I take a mannerism from this person, put it in body of that person, and add the dialect from someone I met at a book fair and whala! A character is born!
JT: What advice would you give to up and coming authors?
SM: Jessica, I’d like to retell a story that I think embodies how a writer needs to be. There were a group of children told to climb to the top of a rock wall. Now this rock wall was nearly 100 feet in the air, so it was a daunting task for an adult much less a child. However the children were quite eager to begin. When the whistle sounded, they all leapt at the wall, pulling up their little bodies and giving it their all. However, the higher they went, the more afraid the parents became. They told them to “Stop!” “You’re going to hurt yourself!” “Come down!” That’s when things started to change. One by one, the children began to doubt themselves. They stopped when they got scared, imagined that they would die if they fell like their parent’s were yelling and basically lost confidence…except for this one kid. He kept pulling and leaping and pulling no matter what the crowd yelled. He was the only one to reach top. When they asked later what made him keep going he never answered because…he never heard him. He was deaf!
That’s how I believe a writer must be in order to make it. Keep your own counsel and don’t get caught up in the hype. What works for one, may not work for you and your situation. By just listening to your inner voice and using common sense, you should reach your goals.
JT: Which authors do you admire and which one in particular inspired you?
SM: Jessica, I love reading. I’ve been reading since whenever and I can’t imagine a life without books. As far as authors I admire let me say first, I thank God for exposing me to the new contemporary authors out here! They make my world rock. Now Eric Jerome Dickey is my contemporary favorite, Stephen King for horror, I’ve gotten hooked on JD Mason and as far as romance—Jude Devereaux and Connie Mason. So I read like I write—across genres.
JT: What do you want your readers to come away with after reading your novels?
SM: Entertainment, self-discovery and a ‘feel good’ feeling.
JT: Are you working on another novel? If so, give us a little sneak peak…details, the juicy details.
SM: My next release will be Devil’s Orchestra. It’s a novel centered around 3 people at the pinnacle of success whose paths intersect one fateful night. They are lured to this one spot by three “old friends”…but they aren’t the old friends they knew. In the end, they have to make the choice of whose side they’ve really been playing for all these years.
JT: Sydney, why should people read your novels?
SM: They entertain, enrich and humor the mind, body and soul. I give you food for thought from my “original” perspective. Some called it skewed, I call it original.
JT: All right, it's time to put you in J.T.'s hot seat. Let's see if you can stand the heat with a little word association. I’ll call out a name or phrase and give me the first thought that comes to your mind. Okay?
SM: I’m ready
JT: Small packages?
SM: HOT!
JT: Changing Faces, Changing Places?
SM: Smoking!
JT: Grandma’s Mojo Still Working?
SM: Wisdom
JT: Denzel or Prince?
SM: Prince, definitely. Ooo-uuh!
JT: What makes a good evening, writing your next novel or sex?
SM: Both. It’s good to try out those positions before you write them and…well, you know.
JT: What is a typical day for Sydney Molare’?
SM: I work as a veterinarian full time so after I leave that job, I become Super Mom—dinner, dishes, homework—before I began writing after my son’s in bed.
JT: How do you define success?
SM: Accomplishing my goals. I have a five-year plan. So I’ve planned my work, now I’m working my plan and I reward myself every time I hit the mark.
JT: What are some obstacles facing black women in the literary industry?
SM: There is definitely a “boxing” mentality in this industry. When someone in a particular genre hits it big, the publishing houses are looking for another one of those. A writer’s whose story may not fit this moneymaker role is avoided.
Add to that the new self-publishing stigma. I wonder if that’s not just some propaganda dreamed up by the traditional publishing houses to ‘keep the masses in line.’ By discrediting self-published authors, they are missing out on some great stories. Their loss.
There is also too much negative criticism, which is a shame. After reading some of the critical words and reviews, I wonder how many others stopped writing the “next big novel” because of a few carelessly tossed words. In fact, I was victim of just that thing so I know it happens. However, I got past it and four books later, I’m digging this life! I hope that people will always remember the old adage: If you can’t help someone, don’t hurt them. And publicly humiliating someone’s life work is wrong. A private email is definitely proper etiquette.
JT: Sydney thanks for a wonderful interview! Where can folks pick up copies of your novels?
SM: They are available most online retailers, Amazon, Barnes & Nobles, Books-A-Million, they can also be ordered at any bookstore and from my website, www.sydneymolare.com. Jessica, I appreciate you for having me here and let me say “Thank you!” for giving myself and other authors a vehicle to showcase their talents. Bye now!
A Chat with Michelle McGriff
If ever there is an author who is more dedicated to her craft, as well as fellow authors, it’s Michelle McGriff. From self-published to mainstream, McGriff remains grounded, family-oriented, and unselfish. She gives back to the literary community, through her publishing company, The Wet August Company, by publishing a monthly newsletter promoting new, upcoming and established authors. She continues to inspire, encourage, and motivate with her words of wisdom and humor.
Michelle McGriff is the author of For Love’s Sake, Obsession 101, The Majestic Series: A Style of His Own, Destiny’s Song, Rested Memories, Temporary Rain, and The Legend of Morning, co-authored with T. L. Gardner.
Would you like to chat with Michelle? Look for her at Mosambasbookshelf@yahoogroups.com and www.wetaugust.com
Enjoy!
JT: Hey Michelle, welcome to J.T.’s Book Corner. I honor this opportunity of interviewing a dear friend.
MM: Thank you for inviting me.
JT: Are you freezing your buns of in Portland or what?
MM: Actually the weather is warmer than normal; it’s about 60 degrees just days after being 25…rollercoaster of meteorology.
JT: Michelle, in my eyes, you are a unique writer. Your ability to crank out a novel in a matter of a few days is unparallel. What motivates you?
MM: A few days…oh you flatter me. The idea for a story yes, but these maturing fingers don’t move quite that fast. (wink) My motivation for what I do is also my motto… I write to be read, enuff said. As long as there are folks who want to hear a story, I’m here to tell one.
JT: When did the writer’s bug bite you?
MM: My first complex novel was penned at age 14 so I suppose somewhere around then. I used to be an avid reader and I remember switching my interest to writing about then.
JT: You have a lot of titles published. Can you give us a sneak peek into your most recent titles?
MM: My most recent title deals with the 5 stages of grief and their affects on a relationship. I hope it’s a tearjerker, that’s what I’m shooting for. I’ve been writing mysteries for the last year and this romantic drama takes me back to my comfort zone. I’m enjoying it immensely.
JT: You started out as a self-published author. Now, thanks to all of your hard work, Black Print Publishing signed you. How does that feel?
MM: When I signed that contract I felt extremely excited. It was a feeling that every writer should feel at least once. What comes next is individual and sometimes it’s gooder some times it’s worser…than the initial rush, but you asked how it felt signing and no matter what, that was a rush I will not soon forget.
JT: Michelle, almost every single time we chat, you are working on a novel. Where do you get the inspiration for your characters?
MM: Asking myself WHAT IF. I’m a people watcher from way back, only now I ask myself, when I see ordinary people doing everyday things…what if they were doing something other than what we think—makes for interesting storylines.
JT: Do you think creative writing is learned or a gift?
MM: BOTH. Creativity is what is within and needs to be pulled out. The gift comes in being able to do it without a lot of effort. However, one can learn to release a flow of creativity and sometimes that release can be life saving.
JT: What do you want your readers t come away with, after reading your novels?
MM: I want to entertain my readers. I want them to feel affected by my characters. I want them to never look at people the same way again. I want my readers to ask, the next time they go to the mall—what if.
JT: As an author, what has been your biggest obstacle?
MM: Getting readers, promotion, and marketing. There are many, many books and fads and political followings—just like with any ‘social arena’. So getting in, finding a comfortable fit within the network is difficult. I have to say; again, having my books read and appreciated was the hardest and continues to be the hardest thing to do. Getting my name out there without becoming a nuisance is tricky…the whole BUSINESS end of writing and being an author is an obstacle…and a downer.
JT: How do you deal with negative criticism?
MM: Better than I used to.
JT: Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?
MM: The challenge to step out of my comfort zone to make a dollar. I enjoy my ‘type’ of storytelling although it’s not the most popular style at this time. I’m always tempted to write sometimes more ‘down and dirty’ however, my true writing heart always beings me back to ME.
JT: I absolutely love putting people in the hot seat because it is an excellent time for your readers to get to know the personal side of Michelle McGriff. Are you ready, girlfriend?
MM: Sure Jessica…I’ve read ALL of your books… I’m ready for whatever you’ve got. (wink)
JT: Describe a typical day in the life of Michelle McGriff?
MM: After a dreamed filled night (where I get much of my story influences) I get up, boot up, clean up, coffee up, and then start my morning, I’m usually interrupted a billion times by my grandchildren who currently live with me and then I leave for work. I work part time at the local TV station—while there I watch people and study for my classes during breaks etc...I come home, wind down, grub down, dress down…and I’m back at the computer writing what danced around in my head that day…usually my night time writing it interrupted by fooling around online, but I do get writing done—even if it takes until midnight to finish a chapter or scene. Then I jump in the bed. Social life…none. However, I do make it out a couple days a week to window shop…I luv shopping.
JT: You’ve written a romance novel. What should women know or do to have a healthy fulfilling relationship?
MM: Remember that no one is perfect. Sometimes the flaws that drew you two together are what breaks you up if you are not careful. Look at yourself honestly BEFORE you raise your voice in accusation.
JT: What is it that people don’t get about you?
MM: I’m very eccentric and I know it. They don’t get that I’m a 70’s survivor… probably because I never left.
JT: If you didn’t have to worry about money or resources, what would you do with your life?
MM: Move to the coast of Oregon and open a bookstore/ school/writer’s retreat and write ALL day.
JT: How do you define success?
MM: The ability to have total Self Reliance.
JT: What would you do with a million dollars?
MM: Move to the coast of Oregon and open a bookstore/ school/writer’s retreat and write ALL day. Oh and go shopping for some really nice jackets and fancy shoes (my two favorite things).
JT: Okay, one last question. If you could have dinner with one person, living or dead, who would it be and why?
MM: My dad…He died before I finished writing a book that I dedicated to him. It was a western—his favorite.
JT: Well, Michelle thanks for a great time! Let everyone know where they can reach you and purchase your books.
MM: www.wetaugust.com to find me. www.iuniverse.com to find my books to date.
So what do you think? If you would like to respond to this article click here and sign our Guestbook to leave a public or private comment.
I’ve always been an avid reader, wanting to attempt to write a novel, but didn’t have the guts to make it to first base. However, after meeting Collen Dixon, I ran to first base and have been hitting home runs since. Not only has Collen been my inspiration, she continues to be the role model that keeps me on track.
Collen Dixon is the author of Simon Says, Every Shut Eye, Behind Closed Doors…In My Father’s House and its sequel Relative Secrets. Collen is a wonderful talent and truly an author to be reckoned with.
So, without further ado, it is with great pleasure that I begin my new year, at my new home on Black Men In America.com, with an intimate chat with Collen Dixon, conducted by Gary Johnson, Black Men In America.com’s Founder and Publisher.
The Collen Dixon Interview
BMIA.com: Hey Collen, how you doing? Some time has passed since we last connected. I’m very glad to feature you on the site. Let’s not waste any time. If you don’t mind, I’m going to get right down to it.
Collen D.: OK, I’m ready.
BMIA.com: Good. Here we go. The phrase “We are the sum total of our life experiences,” is associated with you. What does that statement mean to you?
Collen D.: It means that we are all many things, but our life experiences are what really develop and define who we are. There are so many aspects of our lives- personal, professional, spiritual, etc. that comprise us, that often we forget, and allow people to either stereotype us or place limitations on who we are. One of the things that I stress to the students I speak to is that you are free to be whoever it is that you desire to be. But you should define it, and not allow anyone else to do that.
BMIA.com: Tell us about the new word on the street—“quadrilogy.” What does this mean?
Collen D.: Quadrilogy… it’s kind of catchy, right? Well, originally, the Simon Says series was supposed to be a “trilogy,” but it has evolved into a “quadrilogy:” Simon Says and its sequels, Every Shut Eye; Behind Closed Doors… In My Father’s House and its sequel “Relative Secrets.” And it’s a new word that I created, and it gives credence to the fact that Collen Dixon is bringing new depth and definition to the literary game.
BMIA.com: OK. Go on wit yo bad self.
Collen D.: Laughing!
BMIA.com: Your latest book, “Every Eye Shut” is complete and on the streets. What’s the buzz? How do you feel about it?
Collen D.: The reviews so far have been extremely positive. The only complaint I’ve gotten is that it’s too short! Upscale Magazine gave it a great review in its November 2004 edition, and sales have been increasing. The power of positive feedback and word of mouth is incredible.
BMIA.com: Out of your four books, which one is the most popular in terms of sales?
Collen D.: I would say that Simon Says has been the most popular. It has a great following with the college-aged market, and Virginia Union University made it one of required readings for the freshman class. There are many relevant issues contained in book, and the Dean of Students at VUU, Dr. Delores Scott, read it over the summer and thought that it would make an excellent book for the incoming students. I’m trying to target the HBCUs, and get on the lecture circuit, so if anyone out there would like for me to come and discuss it with students at your high school or college, please let me know.
BMIA.com: Have you always wanted to be a writer?
Collen D.: Since I was child. I actually wrote a book in high school, but I never did anything with it. I look at it from time to time, but I can barely read my handwriting. It would probably take me longer to read and edit it than it would take to write a book from scratch.
BMIA.com: You and I have had discussions about how difficult it is for new writers to get recognized. In your opinion, what attribute or skill is necessary for a new writer to have in order to be successful in this business?
Collen D.: Short term, get on a hot idea and ride it out. If you want to be a long-term success, I suggest that you work at the craft, learn how to write well, and construct a product that you can be proud of. And most of all, you have to have perseverance and thick skin to endure all that you are going to face.
BMIA.com: How important is it to have a mentor?
Collen D.: I think that it is very important to have a mentor. Someone that can give you sage advice is a sounding board, and helps to keep you focused.
BMIA.com: Who do you consider to be your mentors?
Collen D.: If I had to choose one person, it would probably be Zane. She is by far the most successful, supportive, and knowledgeable person I know in the industry. She’s definitely a friend and a mentor to me. She even honored me by including one of my short stories in her upcoming anthology, “Breaking the Cycle.” It is about domestic abuse, and I’m really looking forward to seeing my story, “The Break of Dawn,” in it.
BMIA.com: What do you want people to get or take-away as a result of reading your book?
Collen D.: I want people to be entertained, inspired, and challenged. I don’t want you to feel like you’re going to school when you read my book, but I want to take you in different places… I want the reader to experience a slice of African American life that may not get a lot of coverage in the media. I feel that sometimes we homogenize ourselves to the point where our perceptions of each other are the same as those from different cultures. We as Black Americans are so varied that I feel compelled to tell stories about characters we don’t really see on a daily basis.
BMIA.com: Character development is important. Do you have a favorite character in your books? Who is the character and why is he/she important?
Collen D.: Alex Baxter, from Simon Says and Every Shut Eye is my favorite character. He is the epitome of the non-stereotypical inner city kid that grows up and makes good. And he’s a family man, with no over stimulated libido, who’s smart, normal, and yet, still very interesting.
BMIA.com: Let’s talk about the book that started it all for you, “Simon Says.” Did you conduct any research before writing “Simon Says?”
Collen D.: Not a lot. I drew on my experiences and vast imagination. I did have to research some areas of government and politics.
BMIA.com: How long did it take you to write Simon Says?
Collen D.: It took about six years. Because I was an avid reader, I thought that I could easily write a book. Big mistake. It took many re-writes, but I finally had a product in which I could be proud.
BMIA.com: Let’s talk about the business aspect of writing. A lot of writers, especially, self-published writer, have a difficult time getting a book deal. Tell us about your experience. How did you get your deal?
Collen D.: I was very blessed. When I self-published, I made it a point to try to really get out there and network and attend as many book related events as possible. In doing so, I was fortunate enough to get in contact with Zane, who asked me to send her a copy of Simon Says. She really liked it, and referred me to her agent, who in turn was responsible for getting me my book deal with Random House. Although a major publishing company has picked me up, I still try to network and participate in as many book related events as possible. Being mainstreamed-published is a blessing, but it doesn’t mean that you stop doing what you did before you were picked up. I’ve found that I use the skills, tools and savvy I acquired during my self-publishing days to keep me motivated now.
BMIA.com: So you still have to hustle.
Collen D.: By all means.
BMIA.com: Were there any writers who inspired when you were growing up?
Collen D.: Oh yeah.
BMIA.com: Details, sista. Details.
Collen D.: When I was young, I read a lot of Judy Blume and Encyclopedia Brown books. I guess I was always interested in great characters, good story lines, mysteries and thrillers.
BMIA.com: OK.
BMIA.com: What’s the best part of being Collen Dixon?
Collen D.: Meeting nice people who like the books that I write.
Collen meeting "nice people" at one of her book signings.
BMIA.com: What’s the worst part of being Collen Dixon?
Collen D.: Dealing with the misconceptions and misperceptions that people have about being an author.
BMIA.com: What kind of books do you like to read?
Collen D.: You know since I’ve been writing fiction, I tend to stay away from it now, so that I won’t sound like or plagiarize someone else’s works. I still read Zane and my friend Dywane Birch’s books, because they are distinctly different from my books.
BMIA.com: Let’s get down to the nitty gritty. What advice would you give to aspiring writers?
Collen D.: Write for yourself, write what you find of interest, and never give up. Write something that 20 years from now, you’ll be proud of.
BMIA.com: Wow! I like that. That’s good advice. OK, let’s play a little word association game and put you in the Black Men In America.com Hot Seat. I’ll call out a name or phrase and give me the first thought that comes to your mind. OK?
Collen D.: OK. I’m ready!
BMIA.com: Zane
Collen D.: A phenomena!
BMIA.com: Karibu Book Stores
Collen D.: A wonderful, essential resource for African American writers and readers.
BMIA.com: R.A.W. Sistaz (Reading and Writing Sistaz)
Collen D.: A great gathering place of extremely supportive readers.
BMIA.com: Who would you rather listen to, Luther or Usher?
Collen D.: Old Luther, New Usher.
BMIA.com: What makes a good evening? Reading a good book or going out dancing with friends?
Collen D.: Dancing with friends.
BMIA.com: Which would you rather drive?
Collen D.: A BMW 700 series or an Escalade SUV? The beamer, baby. The beamer!
BMIA.com: Yoga or Jazzercise?
Collen D.: Tai Chi! Just kidding. Yoga.
BMIA.com: Which one of these gives you your greatest reward? Writing a check to your favorite charity or donating your time at a homeless or shelter for abused women?
Collen D.: Donating my time at the shelter.
BMIA.com: Collen Dixon, you are officially out of the hot seat. Well done!
Collen D.: That’s it. That was fun.
BMIA.com: Thank you Collen.
Collen D.: Thank you, Gary.
Collen Dixon and Gary Johnson
Click On Photos To Enlarge
You can visit Collen's official web site at www.collendixon.com or her page at The Random House Publishing Group.
This interview was conducted by Gary Johnson, Black Men In America.com.
Talking Mixed Messages With Author LaTonya Williams!
JT: LaTonya, welcome to J.T.’s Book Corner and congratulations on your debut novel, Mixed Messages! Now that your debut is completed and on the streets, how are you feeling about it?
LW: I'm thrilled and honored at the same time. Having my book published is a dream come true. It's been a difficult journey, but so rewarding too.
JT: How long has the writer’s bug been inside you, and when did you decide to nurture it?
LW: I wrote short stories at the age of eight. Writing is my God-given talent, because I've tried so many things. Nothing else brought me the great depth of gratification as writing. To be able to create something from a mere thought or idea is powerful. Just like a painting on a canvas is for an artist.
JT: How long did it take you to complete Mixed Messages?
LW: Honestly, I began the manuscript in the summer of 1999. It was only ten pages of choppy dialogue and a simple premise of a story. It took four years to complete the final draft with the help of a good editor. It was a learning experience, and I wouldn't trade it for anything. I feel like I earned another Bachelor's degree.
JT: Where did you get your inspiration to pen Mixed Messages, and are the characters based on people you know?
LW: I wanted to write about women who made mistakes the average person would consider unforgivable. Then demonstrate how a strong faith in God can help turn a terrible situation around for good.
JT: What advice would you give to up and coming authors?
LW: Keep the faith!!! Learn from the best, by reading and writing every day. Always work to hone and perfect your craft. Find your voice, style, and audience. Join writer's groups and network. You never know what person will help you get to the next level.
JT: Which authors do you admire and which one in particular inspired you?
LW: Kimberla Lawson Roby, Karen E. Quinones Miller, Eric Jerome Dickey, Zane, just to name a few. Mary B. Morrison, I have so much respect for her. In the beginning when I was just an aspiring writer, I used her self-publishing guide on her website as my Literary Bible. Even though Mary didn't know me, she would return emails answering my silly questions. What really sticks out in my mind is her saying, "All of your questions are not important, if you don't finish writing your story. Do that first, and all the answers will come". That motivated me to complete the manuscript, and she was absolutely right. Urban Books picked my novel up three months later.
JT: As an author, where do you see your future?
LW: I want to be a national bestselling author. I would love to mentor aspiring writers and eventually write for a television drama with Black, leading characters.
JT: What do you want your readers to come away with, after reading Mixed Messages?
LW: Even though the characters, Kailah and Mona, are tragically flawed, I want my readers to make a connection by seeing a little bit of themselves in these dynamic women. Most of all, women to realize no matter the situation, big or small, faith in God will get you through it all.
JT: Are you working on another novel? If so, give us a little sneak peak…details, the juicy details.
LW: Yes, I am! My second novel is Missed Opportunities. It's about Tate Gibson, a man who has no problem sharing himself with two completely different women: a professional co-worker and a ghetto fabulous single mother. The conflict arises when Tate meets a young, beautiful college student he would like to settle down with. When he finds out she's a virgin, he is faced with the choice to pursue the relationship or keep his two women who are willing to serve it up just the way he likes it.
JT: LaTonya, tell me why people should read Mixed Messages?
LW: It's the best book you'll ever read!!! Seriously, you'll want to read about Ms. Kailah Carter, who is so ruthless and calculating, she will put your worst enemy to shame. Mixed Messages contains a high level of drama and surprising twists that reveal the complexities of each character. The story is in no way predictable, just like life.
JT: All right, it's time to put you in JT's hot seat. Let's see if you can stand the heat with a little word association. Okay, I won't make the seat too hot for you. I’ll call out a name or phrase and give me the first thought that comes to your mind. Okay?
LW: I'm ready, girlfriend.
JT: Favorite movie?
LW: Love Jones
JT: Favorite author?
LW: Connie Briscoe
JT: Denzel Washington or Wesley Snipes?
LW: Denzel, baby!
JT: What makes a good evening, writing your next novel or sex?
LW: The best of both. Hot sex...then writing about it in my next novel.
JT: Writing a check to your favorite charity or donating your time at a homeless or shelter for abused women?
LW: Writing the check.
JT: What is your favorite reward?
LW: Nice seafood restaurant with an intimate ocean view.
JT: Where can people purchase your books and do you have a website?
LW: Mixed Messages is available in most bookstores. If you don't see it on the shelf at your local bookstore, ask the manager to order it. Also, you can purchase it on amazon.com and directly from my website at www.latonyawilliams.com.
JT: LaTonya, thanks for a wonderful interview!
LW: Thank you, Jessica. I appreciate the opportunity to spread the word about my book.
Check out LaTonya Williams’ official web site at www.latonyawilliams.com to see what else this talented sister has to say and to get your autographed copy of Mixed Messages. You won’t be disappointed!
LaTonya Williams Photo by: Radosta Photography
C. Kelly Robinson
Best-Selling Author and All Around Nice Guy
Kimberla Lawson Roby, author of Casting the First Stone and Too Much of A Good Thing, took the words right out of my mouth when she said, “C. Kelly Robinson is a wonderfully talented writer who captured my attention on page one and kept it until the very end.”
It is 12:16 am and, with heavy eyelids, I am determined to finish my interview with C. Kelly Robinson, The Strong, Silent Type.. You see, my first encounter with C. Kelly was in 2001 when I read Between Brothers, and I’ve been a faithful fan since. Therefore, I couldn’t go to sleep until this interview met the high standards I’ve set for J.T.’s Book Corner. Nope, No More Mr. Nice Guy for me, this interview was going to be The Perfect Blend.
When C. Kelly puts pen to paper, he doesn’t realize he’s giving hundreds of thousands literary orgasms and true page-turners to the very end. So, for all of you C. Kelly Robinson fans, brace yourselves for one candid chat!JT: It is an honor to interview one of the many authors I admire. C. Kelly Robinson I love reading your novels and I welcome you to J.T.’s Book Corner.
CKR: Thank you, Jessica. It’s an honor and thanks to you for highlighting so many authors.
JT: Let’s see, there’s Between Brothers, No More Mr. Nice Guy, The Perfect Blend and now The Strong, Silent Type. What inspired you to write your latest creation?
CKR: From the day I started writing my first novel, I knew I had it in me to write a story about a character that faced some of my own struggles as a person who stutters. The problem was, I never knew exactly how the story would come together until a couple of years ago. It all started when I was able to visualize the lead character, Deacon, and took off from there.
JT: Are the characters based on people you know?
CKR: There are a few characters in the book that were inspired by some people I’ve met in the course of attending speech therapy through the years, but all the main characters were completely made up. For instance with Deacon, I created a guy with whom I have very little in common in terms of appearance, occupation, etc., except for the experience of stuttering.
JT: What do you want people to come away with after reading, not just The Strong, Silent Type, but all of your novels?
CKR: I always go out with the goal of entertaining people first, but delivering an educational punch as well, something that stays with the reader after they finish the book. In general, I always hope to plant some nuggets that inspire the reader to search their own life for ways they can grow or for obstacles they can overcome.
JT: What advice would you give to aspiring and up and coming authors?
CKR: Just work hard on your craft, get honest feedback from other writers and avid readers who don’t know you too well, and try to have an informal mentor as you first self-publish or seek an agent.
JT: What has been your biggest obstacle as an author?
CKR: Getting my books to sell well. I have hit several of the various best-sellers’ lists, but it’s very hard to say what makes that happen. Some authors sit at home and see their books sell 50,000 copies, while others travel the nation and spend thousands of dollars and sell only half as many books. I think as an author you have to set a limit on how much time you’re willing to sacrifice on sales and marketing and focus on your artistic work. Once you’ve done the basics – book signings, some media appearances - you really have very little control over how well your work sells.
JT: Do you have mentors? If so, how have they supported your growth and development as a writer?
CKR: I don’t have any formal mentors, but I have found that many well-established authors such as Kimberla Lawson Roby, Marcus Major, RM Johnson, and Victoria Christopher-Murray have reached out and helped me at various points in my career. There are also several authors who launched their career at the same time I did who are always available to share advice and ideas.
JT: How difficult, if at all, was it for you to get a book deal?
CKR: Oh, it was no walk in the park. I had to self-publish, which set me back a few thousand bucks, and waste a year with an agent who was not interested in my success. About a year after I self-published, though, I finally landed a real agent who placed me at Striver’s Row within a matter of weeks. Publishing is a very chummy business, and sometimes it comes down not to your talent but to your ability to get in front of the right people. I guess that’s why all aspiring authors with a polished, complete product should attend the Book Expo of America each year; you never know who you’ll meet who can open that magic door for you.
JT: Why do you think your writing is so well received?
CKR: To the extent that it’s well received, many readers say my characters feel like people they really know, with problems they can relate to. A lot of women say they read my books to get insight into the thinking of the men in their lives, but others say they enjoy the way I also present things from the female point of view.
JT: Okay, time for you to get comfortable in J.T.’s Hot Seat!
CKR: Let’s see if I can stand the heat . . .
JT: What’s a typical day in the life of C. Kelly Robinson?
CKR: Oh, that varies. I do a lot of my writing at various coffee shops near my house, often in the evenings. I do some corporate work in addition to my writing, which I’ve actually found enriches my artistic work. I enjoy meeting people and trying to get insight into what motivates and moves them.
JT: How do you define success?
CKR: Doing something you love.
JT: How do you deal with adversity and failure?
CKR: I try to keep moving and believe that God will teach me something from the down times, before elevating me to new levels of achievement.
JT: You know I’m going to have to sneak in a question pertaining to Black Men In America.com. What do you think are the biggest challenges facing Black men in America?
CKR: Oh, we could stay here all day! We need to become responsible fathers to our children, across the board. Many of us do the job, but it seems at least as many don’t. We need to vote. We need to challenge ourselves to be better husbands (or at least become husbands), employees, and entrepreneurs.
JT: Has there been a significant life lesson for you? If so, do tell.
CKR: Many, but a central one relates to The Strong, Silent Type. I have learned to accept my human frailties as a sign of my need for God in my life - God’s power is made perfect in my weakness, because He gets the glory when I persevere and achieve things I once thought were impossible.
JT: Specifically, what do you want Black men to learn as a result of reading your novels?
CKR: That we have to deal with the internal doubts, fears, and insecurities from our past before we can overcome our self-destructive behaviors.
JT: Okay, one last question. What do you do to stay grounded and maintain a sense of balance in your life?
CKR: Attend church. Read the Bible (not as often as I should). Spend time with my family, who are very spiritual people and remind me to adjust my perspective when I get too cynical.
JT: C. Kelly, thank you so much! I wish you continued success and I know The Strong, Silent Type is going to be a best seller!
CKR: Thank you, and best to you with your various works.
If you haven’t had the opportunity to read the works of C. Kelly Robinson, you’re truly missing out!Visit C. Kelly at www.ckellyrobinson.com.
Jonathan Luckett
"Luckett is a stylish writer who shows great patience in letting a story unravel, revealing just enough throughout it to keep you longing for more. As a result, the payoff is a well-written, suspenseful, and deeply erotic tale of fiery passion." —Midwest Book Review of Jasminium
Need I say more? Jonathan Luckett is a talented writer and a definite notch on my favorite author’s belt. As I read Jasminium I thought, “This feels so familiar.” I felt like I was reading an E. Jerome Dickey novel. I found myself visualizing through his vivid descriptions of scenes and storylines. I could not stop reading from chapter to chapter. He is, in my opinion, on par with the likes of E. Jerome Dickey and E. Lynn Harris.
Sit back, relax, put your feet up and enjoy a nice Merlot as you delve into author Jonathan Luckett.
JT: Hey Jonathan, welcome to J.T.’s Book Corner!
JL: Hey you!
JT: I absolutely love the titles of your novels, especially Jasminium and Feeding Frenzy. Now, don’t mind me, because my mind stays in the gutter. So when I see Feeding Frenzy, what comes to mind are people having oral sex all over the place. J Could you give us a little insight on your novels, and how the titles came about?
JL: LOL! Feeding Frenzy is my self-published novella—it came out in 2002. It’s about a guy who literally runs into a model-turned actress he spies in a limo—they spend the next eight hours together—and the story follows their “frenzied” affair of the heart, mind, body, and soul—the title comes from my favorite scene where Scott Chase feeds Tiffani Taylor in this romantic restaurant. Jasminium is my first published novel (November 2003), and it tells the story of two people who met when they were young, shared something horrific together, only to meet again twenty years later. The title is Latin for Jasmine, the flower. I can’t give the story away, but my character Taj calls Cheyenne “Jazz…” My latest novel is entitled, How Ya Livin’. It is the story of three best friends, all single, living in the nation’s capital—looking for love in all the wrong places! It’s a light-hearted look at love, lust, and relationships, through the eyes of Trey, Vince, and Erika. If you love sex and urban drama—you need to pick up this novel quick!
JT: Are the characters in your novels based on people you know?
JL: Some of them are. I’d say most of my characters are a mixture of people that I’ve met over the years…I take some of their more memorable characteristics and use them in creating my stories! In some cases they just come from my imagination and are not based at all on anyone real.
JT: What do you want people to come away with after reading your novels?
JL: Well, first and foremost, I want to tell a compelling story—most people read to escape—to get lost in the story. So, I need to make sure I’m doing my job as a storyteller. But beyond that, I want people to take my characters and the situations I place them in and relate them to their own lives. I want people to contemplate the situations I create as they relate to their own relationships and their own lives—give my readers something to consider.
JT: What advice would you give to aspiring and up and coming authors?
JL: You need to believe in yourself—this is, like most creative industries, a tough business—lot’s of competition—so become your biggest fan—and evangelize your work every chance you get. And don’t give up—success in writing and publishing doesn’t come overnight—it’s a process—and for most of us, it takes time.
JT: What has been your biggest obstacle as an author?
JL: I’d have to say my biggest obstacle is the day-to-day distractions that interfere with my ability to be creative. I work hard to ensure that I put pen to paper each day, and not let the phone, email, kids, bills, etc., get in the way. You know?
JT: Do you have mentors? If so, how have they supported your growth and development as a writer?
JL: Zane is my mentor—I’ve said this before and I’ll say it again—I’m in awe of that woman and her creative spirit. She is very supportive of me, and her other authors; she allows us to do our thing, but is always there to give us advice, and be a sounding board for our ideas.
JT: How difficult, if at all, was it for you to get a book deal?
JL: As I stated earlier, I self-published Feeding Frenzy in 2002. I was promoting that book myself, going around to book events and selling my wares everywhere I could. I was in Baltimore one summer doing a reading when this woman came up to me afterwards and said how much she enjoyed the reading. She introduced herself as Zane, and my jaw dropped. Standing in front of me was a bestselling author—we chatted for a bit and she told me she had a publishing company and was looking for fresh new authors. I sent her the manuscript for Jasminium, which I had just completed, and she loved it! A year later it was published!
JT: Why do you think your writing is so well received?
JL: I think I write about situations that people can relate to, using true-to-life characters. Also, all of my writing has an erotic or sensual element to it that people find quite appealing! Ultimately, I hope it is my “voice” that people respond to, regardless of what the subject matter is that I’m writing about.
JT: Okay, time for you to get comfortable in J.T.’s Hot Seat!
JL: Let’s do it, I’m not scurred!
JT: What’s a typical day in the life of Jonathan Luckett?
JL: As you may know, I teach part-time at two universities in Washington. So a part of every day is spent preparing my lectures, interacting with students, and the like. I try to write every day, and usually succeed—putting in two to three hours; more on a good day. I spend a lot of time promoting my work—sending out and responding to emails, working with my publicist to set up book signings, interacting with book clubs, and other administrivia.
JT: How do you define success?
JL: For me success is about pursuing your passions and being happy. I’m doing what I love to do—writing, and my work is being well received—I get emails from readers every day telling me just how much they enjoyed my writing—so I’m very happy. One can’t ask for more.
JT: How do you deal with adversity and failure?
JL: I try to surround myself with a close circle of friends and family members who are supportive—they are my counsel—they assist me when I’m in need. I recognize that it’s okay to reach out when one needs help—when one becomes overwhelmed. Beyond that, I think we need to remember that life is about dealing with the ups and downs that are sent our way—and I always try to keep things in perspective and recognize that I am in control of my own destiny.
JT: You know I’m going to have to sneak in a question pertaining to Black Men In America.com. What do you think are the biggest challenges facing Black men in America?
JL: I believe black men should start accepting the blessings of wearing many hats—father, husband, teacher, and provider—yet for many, it is a difficult endeavor. The pressures to succeed are great, and come at us from every angle—that being said, I believe we can do a better job—we must do a better job…for our women and children.
JT: Has there been a significant life lesson for you? If so, do tell.
JL: I alluded to it earlier—all of us are in the driver’s seat when it comes to our own destiny. I’ve learned that life will pass you by if you don’t seize the day—grab the bull by the horns and ride that thang!—sorry for all clichés, but it’s true. I don’t want to be one of these people who meander through life, allowing the trials and tribulations to define them. I’m my own master—I am in control of who I ultimately become. Believe that!
JT: Specifically, what do you want Black men to learn as a result of reading your novels?
JL: I want all men, regardless of color, to recognize that it is okay to love, to wear their emotion on their sleeve—and to show vulnerability. I write a lot about relationships, and I want our men to see that none of us are perfect, but our relationships will only get stronger if we open up to our partners, allowing ourselves to be vulnerable, and communicate our feeling instead of holding them in.
JT: Sex or a good book?
JL: Sex, definitely. I can read anytime.
JT: Chocolate or caramel?
JL: I love both—preferably at the same time.
JT: Fish net panty hose or opaque? Yes, I’m very serious!
JL: There’s definitely a time and a place for fishnet. But other times it’s all about being sensuous without screaming overt sex.
JT: Okay, one last question. What do you do to stay grounded and maintain a sense of balance in your life?
JL: I think my children, Alexandra and Julian, have a lot to do with keeping me grounded—when I look at them, I remember that at the end of the day, they are all that matters—and it is a sobering thought—that all of this other stuff is meaningless—we can’t take it with us when we’re gone. Yeah, my kids help me see what’s most important in this world.
JT: Jonathan, thanks so much for a wonderful time. Before we end, is there anything you would like to share?
JL: I hope readers will take a moment to go to my website www.jonathanluckett.com. I’ve got excerpts posted from my books, short stories, erotica, poetry, and a reader’s forum where folks can submit and review comments about my work. As they say in Jamaica, “walk good…” Peace!
I’ll ask again. Need I say more?
An Interview with Electa Rome Parks
Author Electa Rome Parks is powerful in her own right. After successfully self-publishing her bestsellers under Novel Idea Publishing and Editorial Services Company, she signed with New American Library, a division of Penguin Group. A wife, mother of two, business owner and author…whew! Clear your plate and delve into my one-on-one with Electa Rome Parks. Read how the woman behind The Ties that Bind and Loose Ends keeps it all together.
JT: Electa, welcome to J.T.’s Book Corner. Ready to get down to business?
ERP: Jessica, I'm ready! I'm so excited to be here. Ask away, I'm an open book (no pun intended).
JT: Congratulations are in order. Black Expressions Book Club has chosen The Ties That Bind as an alternate selection and Loose Ends as a main feature. What an achievement. How does it feel to have two novels selected?
ERP: Being chosen by Black Expression Book Club is yet another dream come true. I wake up each and every morning and have to assure myself that I'm not dreaming; I'm totally elated, excited and blessed. It's truly amazing the number of households they reach each month, and this is just another opportunity to place my name and titles before the masses.
JT: Electa, how did your writing career come about? Did you always know you wanted to be a writer?
ERP: I know this is going to sound so cliché, but I’ve been writing my entire life, since I was a small child. My family has vivid memories of me penning short stories and plays that we, my sister and my cousins, would perform at church and home. In addition to writing poetry, I always kept a diary as a child and later, as an adult, I kept a journal for many years. Writing has always soothed my spirit and played a major part of who I am.
I think I seriously considered writing a novel back in 1997/1998. However, I didn't get up off my butt and do anything about it until approximately 2001. I had no choice because three very loud voices, the voices of Christian, Brice and Mia, would not let me rest until their story was told; they haunted me for many months.
JT: The Ties That Bind and Loose Ends were originally self-published titles. What were some of the obstacles you faced as a self-published author?
ERP: I'd definitely recommend others self-publish if they have a full understanding of the process. Self-publishing is a lot of hard work and takes solid commitment. You wear many hats, i.e.; bill collector, promoter, event coordinator, marketer, and publicist, to name a few and. . . writing soon takes a backseat. A writer has to approach self-publishing with the mindset of being a business owner and your product is your book. Sometimes creativity and business sense collide like two cars on the interstate, at rush hour.
Another pitfall was obtaining distribution for the thousands of books that were sitting in my dining room and silently taunting me to sell them.JT: As an author, one of our “responsibilities” is to help up and coming authors, as we were helped. What advice would you give to aspiring writers who are considering going the route of self-publishing?
ERP: Initially, I handled my writings like one would handle a business. I knew exactly what I wanted to accomplish and a general timeline to do so. I had my business and marketing plan in place. With that in mind, self-publishing was the perfect
partnership. I used self-publishing as a vehicle to position my product, gain reader feedback, build my readership base, establish a sales record, learn the industry and key players and hopefully, in the process, garner the attention of an agent/publishing house. I accomplished all of these goals through self-publishing. I'd definitely recommend others self-publish if they have a full understanding of the process. One major joy of self-publishing for me was having complete, utter control of my project(s). Good or bad, I was running the show! (Oh, did I mention, I'm a control freak and like everything just right? LOL)Yes, I would definitely do self-publishing over in a New York minute! For me, self-publishing was like being in the trenches; I worked my butt off and learned such valuable lessons. Now, as a mainstream author, I can appreciate it all the more.
JT: Well, your hard work has surely paid off. You landed a publishing deal with New American Library, a division of Penguin Group. One of the things I’ve come to learn is how book sales can make or break you. I read in your bio that you received your BA degree in Marketing. How important is marketing, if one desires to go mainstream?
ERP: Marketing is very important, absolutely vital if one desires to go mainstream. It doesn't matter if a writer has a New York Times bestseller on his/her hands, no one will know about it if he/she doesn't strategically position it in front of their target market. Visibility translates into sales! The publishing industry is a business, which is all about making money, and book sales translate into dollars. That is the bottom line.
JT: What has been your biggest obstacle as an author?
ERP: Jessica, I believe in being truly honest and open. In the spirit of keeping it real and candid, I have to confess that my biggest obstacle has been myself. Fear, uncertainty, self-doubt have all reared their ugly heads at some point or another in my writing career. Fortunately for me, it's only been about 10% of the time. I acknowledge it, I feel it within the depths of my heart, and I know without a shadow of a doubt that writing is my true calling, yet I find myself questioning this from time to time. Go figure.
Now, that I've inked a 3-book deal, I'm ecstatic, yet at the same time, I'm fearful of the future. Now, I have even more pressure to perform and prove to my publishing house that I can pen books that hundreds and thousands of readers wish to purchase. The first 3-4 months after a new book drops is super important. Now that I'm still in that timeframe, my Pisces personality is going into double overtime. We don't function properly under stress and pressure and the ugly monsters tend to rear their nasty heads (LOL). Additionally, I need to get a tougher skin and quit being so sensitive.I'm truly putting out extraordinary effort to remedy this condition and validate that faith, prayers and talent takes you a long ways.
JT: Let’s delve into your novels. For those folks who have not read your novels, could you give us a little insight on what you’re novels are about?
ERP: THE TIES THAT BIND- Here's a straight-up novel about men and women, sex and betrayal, and playing the fool for love. Mia is a hopeless romantic who dreams of getting married and settling down with the man who could make that dream come true. Brice has his own ideas about love. He wants a woman willing to surrender everything and he thinks he's found her in Mia. Then again, so has Christian, who likes love to last just as long as the night takes. Now he's met an angel with the power to turn him around. Unfortunately she's married to his best friend.LOOSE ENDS- It's been five years since they trusted one another-and betrayed one another- only as friends and lovers could. Beautiful Mia, getting a second chance at love. Christian, who gave up his player card for the one woman he's not sure he can trust. And Brice, as irresistibly bad as ever. One woman can tame him-if he'd give her the chance: Kree, innocent but underestimated, and looking for the kind of passion that can change a life. When she finds it, it's going to come with a price. Sometimes, it doesn't take a lot to tear apart friends like these. All it takes is love.
JT: Here are questions I’m sure you’ve been asked more than a dozen times. Are your novels based on real life experiences? If so, are your characters based on people you know?
ERP: Mia represents a collage of women I’ve met during my lifetime who are looking for their soul mates in life. Unfortunately, a lot of times, they are looking for someone to make them happy and complete them and they haven’t quite figured out you have to be happy with yourself first. Love yourself first and then you won’t be willing to put up with a lot of BS. In fact, you won’t allow yourself to be treated as anything less than a Nubian queen.
LOOSE ENDS is the answer to the many questions that readers e-mailed or asked me during book signings. LOOSE ENDS, just like the name infers, ties up all the loose ends from THE TIES THAT BIND.
JT: What do you want people to come away with after reading your novels?
ERP: Primarily, I’m writing for entertainment value first. I write for the readers who want a mini-vacation without ever leaving the sanctuary of their home. I write for that reader who on a cold, wintry day, wants nothing other than to curl up under a warm afghan in front of a toasty fireplace, sip on some hot tea, and read about somebody else’s life. Not just read about it, but get pulled in, engulfed by it and feel the pure emotion. Feel the heat.If readers take something away in the process, then that’s great too; that’s an added bonus. I’ve accomplished my goal and much more; it makes it all worthwhile.
Every time I feel like giving up because the publishing industry is too stressful or the monsters have reared their ugly heads, I receive an e-mail or a personal letter from an avid reader and it makes my day to realize I’ve made an impact on somebody’s life. I can’t describe that feeling.
JT: Do you have mentors? If so, how have they supported your growth and development as a writer?
ERP: No, unfortunately I do not have a mentor per se, but I am looking for one or maybe one will find me. I realize knowledge and wisdom is priceless in any industry. So far, no one has taken me under his or her wing to groom and nurture me. For me, it's basically been trial and error or more like baptism by fire. I do have a small network of author friends that I've leaned on for advice, feedback and encouragement from day one. It's always refreshing and comforting to hear similar horror stories or success stories and have someone say, "Calm down. That has happened to me; this is what you do." I truly value their opinion and passion for their craft.
Additionally, I belong to a handful of writers groups that keeps me tuned into the industry buzz, happenings, etc. It's always refreshing to participate in this capacity, either as a silent or active participant.
JT: Why do you think your writing is so well received?
ERP: I'm an avid reader myself and I knew what was entertaining for me to read. I felt that if readers craved elements of high drama, exciting relationships, smothering spiciness, more drama, compelling characters, and added twists and turns, then they'd embrace my books; which they did.
Also, with these correct blending of elements, I feel my books come across as real, i.e., my characters are ordinary people who are going through realistic "episodes" in their every day life that readers can relate to in one way or the other.
JT: Okay, time for you to get comfortable in J.T.’s Hot Seat!
ERP: Fire away! I love this portion of your interviews because it enables the readers to truly get to know the authors and I'm so nosey that I like to know everything (smile).
JT: Okay, you know folks are nosey when it comes to celebrities. Tell us what it’s like being Electa Rome Parks? What does your day consist of?
ERP: What's it like being Electa Rome Parks? Readers, by the way, my first name is Electa, not Electra (LOL). That is such a pet peeve of mine because I've gone my entire life with people calling me Electra, Electricity, Electron, etc. I remember back in middle school when. . . (LOL). Man, I kinda got off the topic on that one. Sorry (smile).
First of all, I definitely wouldn't classify myself as a celebrity! But, my day is pretty basic and boring; nothing out of the ordinary here. Since I now work full time as a writer, I try to remain disciplined and balanced. For those of you who know a little about me, that's easier said than done.
A typical day goes something like this: After dropping off my children at elementary school and picking up breakfast at Chick Fil-A (I love their biscuits and sodas (LOL)), I head home, sign onto my PC and check and respond to e-mails first.
Then, I'll usually check out some of the Yahoo groups and see what's going on in the literary industry that may be of interest to me. Finally, if I'm working on a project, I'll get the creative juices flowing by re-reading what I've written the day before, focusing on my characters, and channeling in on their voices. Then it's on.
Around one o'clock or so, I break for lunch, run errands to my post office box, do mail outs, and return phones calls, etc. I arrive back and continue writing some more until my kids arrive home on the school bus. Once they are here, we chat and eat a snack, then I re-check e-mails, write some more and eventually call it a day no later than six o'clock. However, the problem is that my working mode never cuts off. So, I can find myself, back on my PC in my hustle mode, throughout the remainder of the evening and night. I'm absolutely obsessed. Weekends are filled with book signings, book club meetings and other literary events.
(Stop yawning.) See, I told you my days were pretty boring. This year, I'm going to attempt to write my next manuscript on my newly purchased laptop. This way I can get away from the house, go the library or wherever, and see other human faces and not have my desktop as an extension of my body (LOL).
JT: How do you define success?
ERP: Good question. Personally, I define success as being able to do something you truly love on a day to day basis, getting paid for it in the process, giving back to the community (to whom much is given, much is expected) and being the best person you can be which enables you to sleep peacefully at night. To me, those combined elements make you a successful person. And. . . if you place God and your family first, the sky's the limit!
JT: How do you deal with adversity and failure?
ERP: I stress out! Girl, I totally freak out, have a pity party, and take to my bed (LOL)! I'm laughing, but I'm pretty accurate. I'm so hard on myself, I'm my worst critic, and I've got to stop doing that. I can't enjoy my successes because I'm too busy worrying about what I could have done better or thinking about the next venture.
After I finally pull myself out of bed and stop my pity party (this usually lasts for roughly 24 hours), I analyze my situation like I'm breaking down a trigonometry problem. After all is said and done, I learn the lesson, file it in my permanent memory bank, remember I'm still standing and move on. In afterthought, life lessons are wonderful, even the ones filled with adversity and failure; they make us stronger and wiser and who we are today.
Also, if I may add, I have a good support team in place with my family and friends. Plus, I have a solid spiritual foundation that keeps me strong and undaunted by the dream dashers.
JT: Black Men In America.com is not only geared toward the brothers, they have something for the sisters too. So, with that said, what do you think is the biggest challenge facing black women in today’s society?
ERP: Hmmm, that's a hard question; there are many challenges facing black women in today's society. From a health standpoint, I think black women need to learn to release and relax. We wear so many hats being wives, lovers, mothers, daughters, businesswomen, nurturers, etc., that we don't know how to unwind, simply just be, and take care of ourselves. We are so busy running here and there and taking care of everyone else's needs but our own that we unintentionally get neglected physically, mentally, and emotionally. We need to learn that we don't have to play superwoman all the time and place ourselves on the backburner. It's okay to let someone else take charge once in awhile. Stop and smell the roses.
JT: I’m a firm believer of mistakes being lessons learned. Has there been a significant life lesson for you?
ERP: A significant life lesson was my mom dying of breast cancer back in 1997. Her death at age 52 (my dad died at 32) made me realize and appreciate how short and precious life truly is. After her death, I made the commitment then and there that I'd follow my dreams because I didn't know what tomorrow held. People are so caught up on playing it safe, sound and conservative; much can be said for that. Unfortunately, sometimes we look up and our lives have passed us by in the blink of an eye and all we can say is "what if". I don't want to ever have to ask myself "what if."
JT: Some authors write to entertain and some write to get across a point or a message. What about you…do you try to relay messages in your writings?
ERP: I’d like for my readers to walk away thoroughly entertained, refreshed and fulfilled. If they learn or recognize some life lessons in the process, then that’s an added bonus for me. When my readers sit down to read my books, I want them to feel like they are taking a mini vacation away from the daily realities of life.
JT: To stay grounded, I sit in a corner and mediate for an hour, or else I’ll go nuts. What do you do to stay grounded and maintain a sense of balance in your life?
ERP: By spirit, I'm a pretty grounded person, but yet, a person with a negative aura can throw my system totally off. I'm very perceptive and can pick up on and take in people's energies fairly easily. I try to distance myself from negative people and their damaging energies, however, when I find myself losing my sense of balance I do several things. I meditate to clear my mind (I always picture myself near water because water centers me), I pray to God for guidance and strength, and I talk to myself. Yes, I talk to myself, but not in a "crazy" way (LOL). I give myself little pep talks and cheer myself on.
JT: Electa, thank you so much! I wish you continued success…and keep on doing the damn thing!
ERP: Jessica, thank you so very much! The same applies to you. It's amazing to sit back and watch your successes pile up. I sincerely appreciate your support, love for literature, and for providing a forum to share. May God continue to bless you in all your endeavors.Much love, Electa Rome Parks
You can learn more about Electa Rome Parks by visiting her web site at www.electaromeparks.com.
So what do you think? If you would like to respond to this article click here and sign our Guestbook to leave a public or private comment.
View Our Guestbook
Report Broken Links Suggest-A-Link