Interview with Author Rekaya Gibson

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