What were some of your dreams and aspirations as a child?
I wanted to be on stage, sing, help others, teach.
How was your childhood growing up in Texas with five brothers?
I am blessed to have been from a big family. Our home was always filled with love. You are never bored with five brothers.
What do you love the most about the art of storytelling?
I enjoy making people happy with my stories.
How has being a member of Bpeace.org changed your life?
Bpeace is an incredible organization! I feel blessed to have learned about bpeace.org. They work hard to help others make their dreams come true by having their own business and have a sustainable life.
Did you follow a structured and planned storyline or just followed an idea and see where it went?
I follow the idea and build my story from there.
Your children's book, The Little Girl in the Moon - The Big Idea is a beautiful story filled with positive messages of teamwork and selflessness. How does one develop the quality of selflessness?
To be a team member, you have to realize the world does not revolve around you. You have to be willing to give and take to build a solid team to make things happen.
I was lucky my parents gave us experiences where we helped others. I was blessed to grow up in a church environment, and you were always doing things for others. Having a big family, you learn not to have everything you want right when you want them. You had to learn to share, wait and discover that sometimes what you think you need, you did not need them. My parents helped us know to save money for things we wanted to do, like voice lessons for instance. They also taught us to save money to help others.
What are some things children can learn from your children's book, The Little Girl in the Moon: The Big Idea?
To have kind wishes — Have thoughtful goals
If you were given a chance to breathe life to any one of your characters, who would it be and why?
I love all my characters, and I have some new ones coming out soon, so I think I will wait to answer that question.
Where do you get the designs for your eye-catching book covers?
I work with my publisher to select the illustration that would also make a great cover.
Have you ever run into a fan in real life?
I have just today. It always takes me by surprise, and it is a fantastic experience. I am very humbled by the parents who share with me how much their child enjoys my stories.
What are the qualities of a great story?
I believe what makes a quality story is different for each author. It depends on their style, genre, etc.
For me, my books are about imagination, believing in yourself, and being kind to others.
What's next for you? What are you working on now?
I started being a cohost for Rapping with Dr. Jacalyn Fashion, Fitness, Travel, and Leisure. It is beautiful to be part of a live streaming show. This fall, I will be launching my Story Garden on youtube allowing children authors to be interviewed and read their stories to children.
How has your experience of being associated with AllAuthor been?
I appreciate AllAuthor Company.
A. Meeting other authors and learning about their books
B. The quality of book marketing -book mockup