How did your journey as an author begin? Was writing always a passion for you, or did it develop over time?
I’ve always been passionate about reading and writing. I was nicknamed a “readeac” because I loved to read books and could read a book cover to cover in one day.
I began telling stories and writing for my little sister and brother when I was about 8 years old. I always loved books and writing. Most writers love to read.
Once in elementary school: I read all the books in my school library and the principal had to order more books for me.
One of the things I like about my book: “Images of America: Bloomingdale,” is the number of photographs and pictures. It really helps even the littlest reader, my second language learner students and students who can’t read – enjoy looking at the pictures from the book.
As a retired elementary teacher, how has your experience in education influenced your writing? Are there specific themes or elements from your teaching career that you incorporate into your work?
When I was a teacher, I worked with students who spoke another language. Some of them couldn’t speak English when they came to our school. Working with these students has made me more aware of explaining my stories even more intentionally. The English language can be very challenging for second language learners as the rules constantly change.
Can you share a bit about your writing process? Do you have any specific routines or rituals that help you get into the creative zone?
I actually have a hard time writing. My editor had to set multiple deadlines before I finished the book. When I wrote my second book. “On My Journey Home,” https://www.amazon.com/dp/9787974003?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_X5XYAR6T5HH6D6BA1N6B I learned my lesson and hired an editor, Tracey Fletcher who was also my publisher (zobafacilities.com) and helped me establish deadlines and routinely would check on those dates which kept me accountable.
You mentioned being involved in voiceovers. How does your experience in voiceovers complement or influence your writing?
Voice overs are also called Voice acting and reminds me of telling a story. So, my voice over experience ties in with telling a story which is easily translatable into writing.
Travel seems to be one of your interests. Have your travel experiences inspired any of your writing?
I have been travelling overseas for many years and lived in Nigeria, West Africa for most of my formative years. During that time my parents took us on trips back to the US to visit family and often made detours in Europe along the way. Once we had a layover in Holland which we really enjoyed. As an adult I fulfilled one of my dreams when I taught for several months at an international school in Mexico. I would love to start a travel blog about my travel experiences to share with other people in the near future.
How do you balance your love for reading with your writing pursuits? Are there any authors or genres that particularly inspire you?
Sometimes it’s hard to find time to read during a busy work day even as a retired person. That’s when I turn to Audio books. I have found Audible to be such a great resource. I listen to stories while I am working out at the gym and just before I go to bed to relax me. Kindle Books are a great resource when I’m on a trip and would like to bring multiple books along.
Meeting new people is another aspect of your interests. Do your interactions and conversations with people play a role in shaping your characters or storylines?
Oh absolutely! I remember the different incidents and stories people tell me when I meet them and think this would be perfect for me next book!
Are there any specific challenges you've faced as an author while writing your novel, “Images of America: Bloomingdale” now?
One of the biggest issues I faced was obtaining material for the book. Many of the neighbors had left or passed away and with them their pictures. Fortunately, there were people who were willing to share information and photos.
In your opinion, what role does storytelling play in connecting people, whether it's through your books or other mediums like voiceovers?
When I travel: I make up all sorts of stories about the passengers in my head. This is something I used to do with my mother when we were children. I didn’t realize at the time that this was me developing stories which would turn into writings. I just thought we were having fun.
As an elementary teacher, you must have encountered a wide range of young readers. How has your experience with children influenced the way you approach writing for a younger audience?
I love reading to young children. Actually, I have a children’s book I am planning on finishing and publishing in the near future. It’s based on my childhood growing up in Nigeria.
How do you stay motivated and inspired to write, especially during times when creative blocks or challenges arise?
Support from my family and friends really helps keep me motivated. Keeping a schedule and staying on task is another way that pushes me into keeping on task. I also love my calendar/journal: it’s nice to write down my to do list and check off items done at the end of the day/week.
What advice would you give to aspiring authors, especially those who may be transitioning from a different career, as you did from teaching to writing?
I think a good way to start is to keep a journal. Even writing for 15 mins a day will help with one’s writing stamina. I also took some inexpensive courses online through Udemy.com on writing. These courses gave me the tools I needed to continue with writing.
As someone who loves both reading and writing, do you have a favorite book or author that has significantly influenced your writing style or storytelling approach?
I love re-reading my favorite books from my childhood like: CS Lewis series “The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe,” I’ve been listening to the books on Audible and I’m on the final book: “The Last Battle,” narrated by Patrick Stewart. I love mystery books and have read many of Faith Martin’s books, Sue Grafton’s books are some of my favorites, as well as Janet Evanovich, I love reading regular books but Kindle has been my go to also because I can read large numbers of books without hauling them around.
I have my favorite Nigerian authors like: Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Tomi Adeyemi and YA books from Nnedi Okorafor.
James Patterson remains my staple always, along with Mary Higgins Clark, and many many others.
How do you envision the future of your writing career? Are there specific goals or projects that you are excited about pursuing?
I have two manuscripts I am excited about finishing and publishing. 1 is non-fiction and the other is a children’s book.
One day I hope someone will read my second book: “On My Journey Home,” that I co-wrote along with my mother about her life experiences from 1924-2021 (when she transitioned) and turn the book into a movie. It is an epic tale about trials and tribulations and a wonderful legacy left behind.
What has your AllAuthor experience been like so far? What are some highlights?
I like how AllAuthor has motivated me and kept me accountable because I can be such an awful procrastinator. Having someone reach out, contact me and encourage me keeps me going. It’s also nice to see people interested in my books.
