Interview w/ Author Chris Hicks About Baltimore Urban Book Festival (Video)
August 9, 2011 by Editor
Filed under Interviews
Author Chris Hicks discusses why he founded the Baltimore Urban Book Festival and how to get involved in the next one.
Interview with Author of Lorton Legends Eyone Williams
July 24, 2011 by Editor
Filed under Book Blog Tour, Interviews
Interviewed by Dana Rettig
UM: Introduce yourself to the readers.
EW: I’m Eyone Williams, author/publisher/actor/recording artist. I’m the CEO of Fast Lane Entertainment. I was born and raised in Washington, D.C. I’m the author of Fast Lane (Fast Lane Entertainment), Hell Razor Honeys 1 and 2 (Cartel Publications), the Cross (DC Book diva Publications), and the forthcoming novel Lorton Legends (DC Book diva Publications).
UM: How long have you been an author? Describe your writing style.
EW: I’ve been an author since I was a child. However, I’ve been a published author since 2004. It was the year I had released my book, Fast Lane with Fast Lane Publications. My writing style is raw and real. I write about what I know and what I have seen over the years. I keep it as real as I can. That’s all I know how to do when I sit down to write. My plots surround what goes on in the real world.
UM: What is the theme/ inspiration behind Hell Razor Honeys? Which character(s) can you relate to the most?
EW: The inspiration for Hell Razor Honeys came from the streets of D.C. where girl crews get down and do things that most people only know dudes to do. Different girl crews were making the news paper for going hard in the streets. I came up with an idea to write a book about how the girl crews were carrying things as well as dictating their vicinities with their destructive, street smart antics. I also went to school with D.C.’s First and Kennedy Honeys who were always into something. Basically, all of this helped me come up with the idea for Hell Razor Honeys.
The character Tec in Hell Razor Honeys would be the character that I relate to the most. When I was young, I was wild. I did things I had no business doing as a teenager. My past helps me write real street fiction.
UM: Illustrate the experience of being a former writer for Don Diva Magazine turned entrepreneur of Fast Lane Entertainment. What prompted you to embark your own company?
EW: [Don Diva] is connected in the streets and in the prison system. I did 17 years in prison and during that time I grew as an author. While in prison, I met the owner of Don Diva Magazine, Kevin Chiles and I asked him about some D.C. street stories that only I could bring to life, in my opinion. Kev was down with it and so was my man, Seth Ferranti. He brought light to the Fray and Wayne Perry stories, which will always be legendary stories in D.C. and beyond. I’m still down with Don Diva. We have bonds that will last a lifetime.
As far as establishing Fast Lane Entertainment, it was second nature. In my mind, a man must always strive to have his own thing. I’m a go getter. The only way to be a real go getter is to go and do your thing. It’s a must to maintain your connections and to network at all times, but to be your own boss is priceless. A boss is what I’ve always strived to be, right or wrong.
UM: What makes you stand out from other authors?
EW: I’m all about what I set my mind to. I write street stories that a lot of other authors write but I write in a way that you can only see it or hear it if you are connected to what goes on in the streets. I write what I like or what I would want to read. I end my stories the way I feel they would end in real life. I also stay on the front line with my books and my business. Attaining this kind of knowledge will keep me around for a long time. Also, I understand how important it is to surround yourself with positive, supportive people. For instance, DC Book diva was one of the first people in my city who believed in me when I was released from prison.
She helped me get this movement in order. With all of that said, what makes me stand out is really who I have standing with me. In this game, I surround myself with those who stand for constant progress. Simple as that.
UM: What advice do you have for upcoming authors/ journalists?
EW: Grind, do your own thing and don’t let anybody tell you that you can’t do whatever you put your mind to. Also, study the game. Read, research and know what you are doing and getting yourself into. I hear people all the time talking about how somebody had treated them wrong on their contracts and stuff like that. However, you are the one that is supposed to read your contract. Be sharp and aggressive with you grind. Go hard or go home. Most of all follow your heart and dreams. Put time and energy into your work and it will all come together.
UM: Where can people receive more information about you?
EW: Check me out on Facebook under my name, Eyone Williams.
Interview with Diva D-Cup Series Author Vonda Howard
July 23, 2011 by Editor
Filed under Interviews
Interviewed by Dana Rettig
UM: Introduce yourself to the readers.
VH: First, thank you so much for the chance to speak with you! My name is Vonda Howard and I’m a native of Washington DC. I’ve had a passion for writing since I was a very young child. I actually wrote my first 200-page book (unpublished) when I was 10 years old. I wrote my first self-published book, Diamond Lives, Platinum Lies in 2006. In 2009, my dreams came true when I signed on to Anexander Books and published The D-Cup Divas series. I’m also the Editor and Chief of Black Literature Magazine and the Love and Relationships editor for Curvy Magazine.
UM: Tell us about your current book, D-Cup Divas. What’s the inspiration and theme of D-Cup Divas?
VH: The inspiration for D-Cup Divas is simple. Loving yourself no matter what size you are. That spans across all ages, races and genders. Frankly, I just got a little tired of the lack of representation of women over a size two. If we are represented, we are drug addicts, have low self-esteem, shy, and the butt of every joke. I wanted to create a series of books that highlights full figured women as confident, smart, successful and most of all sexy. They all have good jobs, nice houses, and maintain loving and spicy relationships.
UM: Besides writing, what other talents do you possess?
VH: I am also a graphic designer. I run my own graphic design firm, Cupcake Creative studio (www.CupcakeCreativeStudio.com). I can also make a mean Oreo cake. ;o)
UM: Compare D-Cup Divas to your previous books such as, Diamond Lives, Platinum Lies and It’s Always the Pretty Ones. Which character(s) do you like in D-Cup Divas and It’s Always the Pretty Ones?
VH: Ooh…that’s a hard thing to do. All of my books are so different in that I feel I grow as an author with each one. When I stepped on the scene with Diamond Lives; that was really my very first attempt at professional writing. As I moved on and learned more and more I put all of me and what I had learned into my books that followed.
In Diamond Lives, Platinum Lies, my favorite character has to be Peaches. (LOL) She is so crazy and out there. She is the type of chick that you wonder why you deal with her, but she reminds you with her loyalty and compassion.
In It’s Always the Pretty Ones my favorite is actually Dazzy. She was so twisted and disturbed. I had an awesome time writing her and developing her as a character.
Lastly, the D-Cup Divas. My favorite in this series is Lanora. She is smart as a whip, independent and says exactly what’s on her mind. She is completely in touch with herself and her sexuality and doesn’t care what anyone thinks about it. She can come off brash sometimes, but it always comes from a loving place.
UM: As an author, do you believe that love conquers all? Or do you think otherwise?
VH: I am a sap at heart. I love a good love story and all the goo that comes with them. However, I don’t believe that love is the answer to everything. I believe that in our stories, just like in real life, no matter how much you love someone; life’s circumstances can sometimes determine the outcome. Not every story can have a happy ending.
UM: The publishing game is quite brutal. You can’t sell a book unless drugs, sex, and violence is involved. What motivated you to go against the grain by publishing D-Cup Divas?
VH: I have to disagree with that. I don’t feel you have to have those things to sell books. I think what you need is a solid storyline and believable characters. I will admit that the current hotness is Urban Fiction, but that’s been around for a long time. Even books that are gritty need to have decent storylines and characters. I honestly think also, it’s all in knowing how and where to market your book also. You can’t stick an ad for a Christian fiction novel in Playboy. Not gonna work. (LOL)
UM: Name three people that you consider conquerors inside/outside of the literature game.
VH: Inside…Wahida Clark: She dominated and wrote fabulous stories while in prison. Most people would be broken by that, but she wasn’t. She didn’t let her circumstances stop her dream for herself or her family.
Inside…T. Styles: She grew up in one of the hardest neighborhood in DC and didn’t let it break her. She writes riveting and true-to-life stories that keep her at the top of the game. Not to mention she is one of the nicest and most humble people you would ever meet.
Outside…Lebron James: I know, I know. I probably get a weird look for that one. I just admire his strength after what he had to go through to make his life what he wanted it to be. Being booed and dogged out by the team owners and fans in Cleveland had to be very hard for him. Nonetheless, he stayed on course and is actually fulfilling the dream he had set for himself and his family.
UM: What are your thoughts on society placing labels on those who are distinctive from others?
VH: I think anyone that labels or stereotypes anyone that is different from them is just plain ignorant. Plain and simple. This world would be one big huge snore fest if we all were alike and though the same. Can you imagine? I think that once we all learn to respect one another’s differences, and differences of opinions we will all be better off.
UM: If you could change one thing about the world, how would you approach the situation at hand?
VH: I’d definitely want to stop all the fighting and bickering. I know that will never happen as long as we continue to be separated by classes (rich, poor, middle class). Someone will always be fighting to keep what they feel is theirs and others trying to get what they think should be. I would think the only way to change that would be to evenly distribute all of the world’s resources and treasures to everyone. Like I said, never happen. LOL. We should just all stand up hold hands and sing like that old Pepsi commercial…”I’d like to teach the world to sing in perfect harmony…”.
Interview with Sellout Author Ebony Wilkins
July 22, 2011 by Editor
Filed under Book Blog Tour, Interviews
Interviewed by Dana Rettig
Being a teenager is not easy at all, but trying to seek your identity by being a part of a crew is more difficult than usual. In Ebony Joy Wilkins’ book, Sellout; the main character, Natasha Jennings does not fit in with the white kids in her suburban hometown. When Natasha runs into trouble with her mean, ill-willed peers; she runs and hides from them as if she’s running from the law. Not knowing that drama exists everywhere, she moves to one of the most merciless, hard-core cities in the United States of America- Harlem, New York. After facing some serious quandary with the kids at school, her grandmother, Tilly, suggests that she works with her at a crisis center for girls in the Bronx, so she can a get a feel of what the troubled, city slickers face on a daily basis.
Natasha is afraid to mingle with the girls at the crisis center, but soon begins to take tips from the troubled teens on survive anywhere in this world by learning that with a little courage, you can face anything predicament that may come your way.
UM: What motivated you to write Sellout? Which character(s) is/are similar to you when you were coming up?
EW: Sellout is loosely based on my own experience of transitioning as a teenager. I was once told in a writing workshop that you write best when you write about what you know. I can relate to elements of all of the characters in the book, but NaTasha’s character and her struggles, trying to fit into her world rather than leaving her stamp on it, are closest to my own. Reliving my own feelings through NaTasha’s eyes was an intense process for me. At times I found it hard to step far enough back from my experience to let NaTasha’s voice come forward. But it was important for her to carve her own paths and I tried to remove myself in order to let her do so. I was motivated to share Sellout because it’s comforting and inspiring for me to hear of others who share similar life experiences. I’m hoping this story will provide that comfort and inspiration for someone else.
UM: When you wrote the book, Sellout; what kind of feedback did you receive? Were the feedbacks positive, negative, or both?
EW: Writing Sellout took about two years to ‘complete’ and I received helpful critiques, and even a few rejections along the way from agents, but helpful responses from workshop partners, classmates, and other writers about how to improve the story. The overall message of the book remains, but the structure is quite different now from its original version. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive and encouraging. NaTasha’s story is a unique one, but her character and circumstance anyone can relate to. I do realize that everything I put on the page will not resonate with every reader, but so far, the response for her story has been a positive one. The harsh critiques are welcomed so that I look at my work through different lenses. It helps to know how the story I intend to tell is resonating with my audience.
UM: In your hindsight, what kind of advice do you have for teenagers not to fall victim to peer pressure and other life situations?
EW: I wished I would have listened to those who told me that high school is not real life, and just the beginning! Teenage years are a time to explore, to search, to enjoy, and to make decisions that set you on the path to your future. I believe now I spent too much time trying to fit into a mold, that I sometimes feel like I missed the opportunity to shine during those years. I don’t live with many regrets, but in hindsight, I would have settled into ‘me’ a little earlier. Peer pressure is all around, sometimes into adulthood, but I think it’s important to remember that we all have different lives to lead. Don’t spend too much time deterring from your own path, because it may take a lifetime to find your way again.
UM: Your online bio states that you have traveled to London, Switzerland, and Africa. Describe those moments of traveling to different terrains and meeting new people. When you are traveling to different countries, do you become encouraged to write or do you become enthused to do something else?
EW: I’ve been blessed with the opportunity to travel around the world with my family and have also seen parts of Canada, South Africa, and United Arab Emirates (Dubai and Abu Dhabi), and every one of those trips changes me. Experiencing other cultures and traditions, meeting new people, listening to conversations in multi-languages, visiting schools abroad, and witnessing the day-to-day activities in another country are fascinating. Just recently, I met another teacher in Durban, South Africa who writes books for children as well. We talked about our students, our classrooms, our writing, and goals for the future – amazing to learn how different our worlds, but how similar our paths. Travel has been one of the most important parts of my education thus far. It inspires me to write, to volunteer, to share my photos, and to pass along new information that I learn. Although we travel far distances, learning can happen anywhere, even if you’re just experiencing a new part of your home city – Getting out of your comfort zone opens up new worlds, new opportunities, and new ideas.
UM: Describe the significance of the voices of AA/YA fiction as well as the diversity as a whole.
EW: There is significance in African American voices in literature, young adult voices in literature, and diversity in literature. Reading a variety of voices is a learning experience in itself. For so long many African American voices were absent from children’s literature. I believe there is a huge turn-around in the last decade to include more diversity in literature, and I’m glad to be a part of it. As many diverse readers as there are, the need and space for diverse voices in the stories that we read, write, and share is even greater. I’m a firm believer that every person has an interesting story to tell and readers respond to stories with characters present in the literature that are relatable and identifiable.
UM: What advice do you have for children as far as peer pressure is concerned?
EW: The advice I can give is to stay focused on who you are as a person because the peer pressure will come. Peer pressure is like exams in school – you know you will have to face them. You can prepare by deciding who to allow as an influence in your life and what you will allow to influence your life and sticking to those decisions no matter the situation. Of course, this sounds easier than it will be. But trust me it is a horrible feeling to look back on a situation wishing you had made different choices, so some of those choices you can control and prepare for now. One more piece of advice would be to not let someone else get in the way of your own destiny. Always be true to you!
UM: What are your present and future endeavors?
EW: I am working on a PhD in education at the University of Illinois Chicago. The focus of my research is African American children’s literature and creative writing. In addition to studying, I am writing another young adult novel and attempting a male point of view this time. The new story is centered on one group of friends, bullying from older kids, and surviving their final year of high school. So far I have enjoyed getting to know these new characters and the writing process. In the future I plan to revisit NaTasha (and the rest of the Sellout crew) to find out what is happening in their lives.
UM: How do you deal with the good and bad side of life’s situations and more?
EW: The only thing I can do is count my blessings and pray over my trials. My favorite Broadway show is In The Heights and the cast sings a song called, Patiencía y Fe (patience and faith), and I walk around humming that tune at times to remind myself that God is in control of my right now, my tomorrow, and my next week. When the bad comes, I take it, pray about it, and let it go. I’ve learned that the only things in life I can control are the words that come out of my mouth and how I react to what comes my way.
UM: Where can people reach you?
EW: I love getting emails from readers and I usually answer pretty quickly! Email me at ebonybooks@yahoo.com or check my website at www.ebonyjoywilkins.com to follow my blog and find more info about Sellout and other writing news.
Interview with Author of One Hundred Miles and Running by Q.B. Wells (audio)
July 21, 2011 by Editor
Filed under Interviews
Author Q.B. Wells was able to sit down with host Mz. Optimizm and discuss books, life and experiences in publishing.
Interview with Allure of the Game Author Danielle Santiago (Video)
July 17, 2011 by Editor
Filed under Book Blog Tour, Interviews
Recently in an article on www.Essence.com, Danielle Santiago spoke about her personal experience hustling in the drug game and eventually balancing a family life. Read the article here.
She goes more in depth about her novel, Allure of the Game in a video for the her publisher here.
Leave us your comments!
Interview with Tre Pound Author Jordan Belcher
June 13, 2011 by Editor
Filed under Interviews
What motivated you to write and finish a full-length novel?
I was surrounded by friends who’d thought about writing biographies about their life or fictional accounts of their criminal backgrounds, and there were some who actually attempted to write a book but never finished. I wanted to be one who actually finished.
What is the most challenging part of your writing process?
When I first started writing, the most challenging part was trying to describe character appearances and giving details on locations. I overdid it. But as I got further into my novel (and began comparing my work to others), I went back and toned it down.
What’s the craziest question a reader asked you after reading your book?
“Can you put me in part 2?” After reading Tre Pound, a couple readers asked me that question. They wanted to be put in the storyline somehow, alongside Tre Pound, or be a part of his life in some way.
How do you feel about readers judging books by their covers?
The front cover is your first impression to a reader, and the back cover is your second impression. The story inside should match or exceed the interest the reader gained from the covers. Besides reviews and word-of-mouth, an eye-catching cover is a great way to attract readers to an unknown author.
What’s the title of another author’s book that you wished you wrote?
Gerald’s Game by Stephen King. It took place in one room, and still was filled with suspense and held my attention to the end. To be able to write that good using one location is greatness to me.
Do you plan to continue writing street fiction throughout your writing career?
Yes. If writing about urban characters in criminal situations continues to be considered street fiction, then yes, I’m gonna write about it. I might throw in a little romance, or even a little sci-fi, but I’ll always have urban characters at my writing core. Names of genres can change, but my commitment to urban storylines won’t.
Has any of your characters shocked you?
Camille in Tre Pound and Tremaine in my upcoming novel Blacktop Hustlaz both had my jaw hanging slack when their characters started to gain personalities in my mind. They were supposed to be normal when I first thought them up.
What would your ideal career be, if you couldn’t be an author?
I’d pursue film directing. I love stories—written and visual. Hopefully I can juggle two careers.
How has your environment/upbringing colored your writing?
I grew up around a lot of different people with a lot of different personalities. I’ve seen how criminal thinking comes in all shapes and sizes. I wanted my writing to reflect that.
How did you come up with the title of your book(s)?
In my crime days, the only gun I ever used was a .357 Magnum. And the nickname for that gun is called Tre Pound. I got the title Blacktop Hustlaz from Kansas City natives referring to the streets as the “blacktop.”
Are there any scenes in your books that actually happened in your life?
There’s a bunch. But one particular scene that’s safe to reveal is the scene in Blacktop Hustlaz where Skee dropped his friend off in an upscale neighborhood to steal a car.
If you could pick one celebrity to play a character in a movie adaptation of one of your books, who would it be?
Souljah Boy would be perfect to play Tre Pound!
Interview with Author Rekaya Gibson
June 5, 2011 by Editor
Filed under Book Blog Tour, Interviews
Introduce yourself to readers.
Hi Readers! I am Rekaya Gibson, Author of three fiction titles: “The Food Temptress” and the sequel, “The Food Enchantress”. The latest is “Mama Don’t Like Ugly” by NCM Publishing Company. I started my freelance writing career in 2005. Some of my magazine articles have appeared in Cabo Living Magazine, Lake of the Ozarks Second Home Living Magazine, and Relocating in Saint Louis Magazine. In my spare time, I am a freelance grant writer and consultant.
When I am not writing, I am dancing, eating, and/or promoting my work. I have lived in more than five U.S. cities and I am not in the military. Currently, I reside in Hampton, Virginia.
Tell us about your novel Mama Don’t Like Ugly?
“Mama Don’t Like Ugly” is a fiction story about Dana, a dark-skinned girl, growing up in a household with a mama who dislikes her because of her skin color. Her mama not only abuses and neglects her, but she constantly compares her to her light-skinned sister. In spite of her situation, she still loves her mama unconditionally.
You have written several titles, how would you describe your writing style?
I write – on the computer – when I have something to say. Then, I let it all out until I am done. This can mean five minutes or several hours. I am not good at writing during a slotted time; it is the rebel in me. However, sometimes I have to write on paper first to get the juices flowing.
What separates Mama Don’t Like Ugly from your other titles?
It has a good balance of drama, humor and suspense. Also, it will resuscitate nonfiction discussions about beauty and skin color. I am hoping folks will stop being in denial about their prejudices.
Who is your favorite character in the novel? Which character do you want readers to connect with the most and why?
My favorite character is Dana. I want readers to connect with her because she is intelligent and resilient. In spite of her situation, she still loves her mama unconditionally. Most importantly, her beauty radiates from the inside and she does not let her imperfections dictate her destiny.
You write about food and it is even the subject of two of your titles. Tell us about your relation to food and literature?
I cannot do one without the other. Plus, I love making people salivate while they read. I must admit, it excites me.
If you could meet any author over dinner, who would it be and why? What would you eat?
I would invite Jennifer Weiner. She is an amazing writer; I loved “Good in Bed.” In my opinion, she gave birth to “chick lit” and successfully introduced readers to a plus-size heroine. I would like to get some tips on writing and promoting. I am interested in getting to know her personally; she has a wonderful sense of humor. Lastly, I have to talk to her about stealing my leading lady, Raven Symone, for her upcoming TV show “The Great State of Georgia.” I want her to play Ambrosia in a movie or television series based on The Food Temptress.
We would have a three-course meal. First, I would serve homemade spinach artichoke dip with tortilla chips. I cannot forget the white zinfandel. Second, I like to keep it simple by having broiled lamb chops with homemade garlic mashed potatoes and sautéed summer vegetables. Third, I plan to whip up a chocolate mousse and serve it in a martini glass. As an added touch, I would insert a Pirouline and top it with a fresh raspberry.
You also write a column. Tell us about your writing column.
I write for the Hampton Food Examiner. It is an online site for locals living in Hampton, Virginia. I write about everything related to food. In addition, I started writing cookbook reviews for Cuisine Noir, a foodies and wine magazine for African Americans.
How will readers be able to connect with you and learn more about your titles for purchase?
Readers can connect with me by becoming a fan of Author Rekaya Gibson on Facebook and following me on Twitter. Also, they can find me on the Food Temptress Blog and my website. All my books are available at online retailers such as Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and Smashwords. In addition, folks can request them at their local bookstores and libraries.
Rekaya Gibson, Author and Hampton Food Examiner
Mama Don’t Like Ugly – (Order Today or Download on Kindle!)
The Food Temptress and the Sequel, The Food Enchantress
Interview with Blitz Author Ebonee Monique
June 1, 2011 by Editor
Filed under Book Blog Tour, Interviews
Introduce Yourself to Readers
My name is Ebonee Monique, author of Suicide Diaries, Walk a Mile and the 2011 release, Blitz. In a nutshell, I’m your everyday woman. I laugh, I cry, I live, I love & I’m blessed enough to put all of that into the format of books & stories. I’m a native Floridian and a graduate of the illustrious Florida A&M University and an avid hip-hop fan. Oh. I’m the coolest person I know, too! J
Tell us about your novel Blitz.
Mia Robinson has worked hard to obtain an affluent lifestyle. With plenty of money in the bank, an impressive network of tastemaker friends, a booming real-estate business and a loving man by her side she is assured that she and daughter Brandi will never lack the finer things in life. However, when Brandi’s long-lost father mysteriously returns in their lives, Mia must work overtime to make sure a buried secret doesn’t resurface.
While Mia struggles with the decision to give Charles a child, she learns that her soon-to-be fifteen year old daughter is pregnant. Soon people began to whisper, friends turn away and social circles become smaller. Will the bombardment of the unexpected demolish Mia’s dream life or will this rags-to-riches, self-made tycoon rise to the challenge and maintain control?
You have written several titles, how would you describe your writing style?
I write what I see in my life & what I hear about from the lives of my family & friends. People picking up my books won’t really see things too far-fetched; I think that’s the beauty of my writing. I’m not the next Terry. I’m not the next Kimberla. I’m not the next Sheneska. I’m the first Ebonee Monique. I value the thought of being able to be the voice of my generation. I’m not interested in making up outlandish stories but, rather, telling everyday stories that people can relate & learn from.
What separates Blitz from your other titles?
With Suicide Diaries, I was writing and grieving at the same time. I love Suicide Diaries, but it’s not one of my books that I can pick up at any time & read. I really have to prepare myself for that. Suicide Diaries deals SO much with the grief of losing a loved one to suicide (Note: Ebonee lost her first love to suicide in 2004), that it’s almost impossible not to go back to that dark place. It’s a great story that had to be told, though.
With Walk a Mile, it was just fun to tell the story of such a proud b*tch. The emotions tied to watching someone grow and learn that life isn’t fair but it’s also not on the hunt to bring you down, is apparent in this story. I’ve had people tell me they hated Sydnee (the main character) at the beginning but by the end of the book they understood her journey. That’s the point of books, to see the evolution of characters amidst turmoil.
Finally, Blitz really gave me an opportunity to delve into the life of a single-mother who has gone from abuse and poverty and risen to millionaire status, all while making sure that her daughter has everything she could ever ask for. The story is just as much about her journey as it is the blitzes that come along and threaten to tear down the ladder she’s on. I think, again, I’ve captured genuine emotions & situations and relayed them to the masses.
Who is you favorite character in the novel? Which character do you want readers to connect with the most and why?
Probably Charles (Mia’s long-time boyfriend) because I don’t think there is enough good black men showcased in books. Charles loved Mia and all of her baggage with no complaints or hesitation and that’s beyond commendable.
Who are some of you favorite authors and why?
Sheneska Jackson-she was actually the first author that I met (as a teenager) and helped me to see that it was believable that I could write for a living. I credit her with nurturing a seed within me.
BeBe Moore Campbell- I was immediately drawn to her style of writing because I could close my eyes and imagine myself right in the middle of one of her scenes. There was nothing outlandish about her writing…it just felt like one of my aunts or cousins were telling a really, really detailed story; I appreciated that about her. I also loved that by the end of a story you were ready to debate and talk about things.
Terry McMillan- What can I say? For many people, Terry brought African American fiction to the forefront of America with “Waiting to Exhale” and, for that, I have the utmost respect for her & her craft.
Pearl Cleage- Whew! Without a doubt, she is definitely one that made me appreciate the beauty of every-day life writing. So many times I think authors think they have to create these unbelievable storylines in order for readers to like them…Ms. Cleage proves otherwise. Sometimes you want to relate to what you’re reading.
You have an extensive experience in radio, has your experience helped marketing your books? If so how?
I think my experience in radio/marketing/PR/Promotions, etc. have helped me tremendously. I try to work on the gauge of “What would I find interesting as a Program Director/Editor” and I think that’s helped me. Also, I have an appreciation for how hard it is to create & wait. Much like singers, rappers, etc. the create & wait aspect is BRUTAL. You create your project & you wait for the feedback of the masses. It’s always nerve-wracking.
What are your hobbies?
Besides writing? I love online shopping!! A lot of my friends say they can’t do online shopping, but it’s the only way I like to shop. Put me in 50 dressing rooms in one day & I’ll be ready to flip on someone. I’d much rather shop with a glass of wine in one hand, credit card in the other. I figure, if it doesn’t fit I’ll just return & try again!
What is your opinion of literature in your city? Are there a lot of bookstores, readers and are they supportive of your work?
I’m a statewide rapper, but I think that Florida as a whole a pretty decent scope of writers. I think, at this point, there are a lot of budding writers on the brink of blowing & I can’t wait to cheer them on. I’m always supportive of other writers-regardless of where they’re from-because I think there’s enough fans, enough money, enough opportunities, etc. for everyone to get their shine on!
How will readers be able to connect with you and learn more about Blitz and your other titles for purchase?
Official Website: www.eboneemonique.com
On Twitter: @eboneemonique
Blog: www.eboneemonique.wordpress.com
Publisher site: www.peaceinthestormpublishing.com
Conversation with Fariso Jordan
March 28, 2011 by Editor
Filed under Interviews
Conversation with Fariso Jordan
Please tell us what the play “Georgia” is about?
Georgia is a love story. A complicated love story. I think everyone can relate to having an attraction, whether it’s to another person, an idea or an object that goes against everything we know or think that we know. Georgia speaks to those impulses we have that defy all logic.
What inspired you to write “Georgia”?
I am really intrigued by the idea of perspective. The play in itself is a search for truth. All of the characters in Georgia give you different answers to the same question. The reason why Georgia works best as a one-person performance is because it creates an experience of truth manipulation not only symbolically, but visually and physically as well.
What are the challenges in doing a production of this style?
I have to learn lines for 4 different characters and have to give each character their own traits and personalities. One of the biggest tasks in rehearsal was making the conversations/interactions between characters come across as such. There’s no one else on stage but me, so I have no one to help pick me recover if I mess up a line. I have to be perfect to get this story across.
What do you hope the audience comes away with after seeing the performance?
I hope that Georgia helps people to see the world more clearly.
Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 at the door.
To purchase for May 26
http://secure.gigmaven.com/events/4977/orders/new
May 27
http://secure.gigmaven.com/events/4978/orders/new
May 28
http://secure.gigmaven.com/events/4979/orders/new
Also read the interview with Parle Magazine’s Kevin Benoit
Georgia will be showing at the Nuyorican Cafe in New York City March, 26, 27, 28. Fariso Jordan, while originally from Texas moved to Harlem, NY to study theatre-performance at Fordham University. This is where she started working on the beginning stages of this play. http://www.farisojordan.com/ Georgia is directed by Brooklynite Kevin Benoit of Parle Entertainment. Follow the actress and director on Twitter at @farisojordan and @parlewithme
