Where were you born, and what was your childhood like?
I was born in New York City (Queens, NY). I had an active childhood with loving parents who encouraged us to go outside into the world (by myself but had to take my younger brother with me 🙂 ) Mostly spent playing sports - basketball and football. And pretty much continued when we moved to Greenwich, CT during junior and senior high school years. Was a little bit on the introverted side, but not so much that I didn't interact and play with children my age. Just quiet if anything. When not playing sports could find me with my head in a book.
How were you first introduced to writing?
The earliest I can remember is 1st grade in Ms. Trice's class (she's actually an author herself of children's book). I can remember her being very encouraging and supportive about my writing.
Who all are a part of your family? How critical are they of your writing?
Mother (now deceased) and a father and brother. They are critical in that I grew up in house of artists. My mother was a artist (painter) and my father was a Creative Director/Art Director in the advertising business.
What are your hobbies apart from writing?
Sports. I watch basketball and football all season long. I'm also a basketball coach and run charity called Team Hurricane Basketball Academy. I'm a also a varsity boys basketball coach at a private school, Mount Saint Agnes Academy.
Who is your target audience? What are some things you wish your readers would take away from your books?
My target audience is 18+, (though 24 - 59 is probably the ideal age range) with a focus on mature readers who gravitate to literary fiction. Even though the characters in my books are African-American, I seek an ethnically diverse audience, because the themes addressed are universal . The main thing I want readers to take away is that for a moment in time, you've gone on a journey with engaging and thoughtful characters who have shared with you their views on the world and in doing so, get you to reflect on your own beliefs.
How did you come up with the title of your book, Child of Gilead?
Heard the song Balm of Gilead and was drawn to the theme of Gilead being a place of healing. And Child of Gilead, on one level, is about characters in search of healing.
What is the important essence or ingredient to writing literary fiction?
I believe the important essence to writing literary fiction is to use language in a creative way that allows you to express big ideas and themes.
Who inspired the character of Little Speedy Copeland in "Garden's Corner"?
While I was not the age of Little Speedy Copeland when I wrote the novel, this character is semi-autobiographical. He is my composite of many of my personal experiences, with the most prominent experiences coming from my time living in New York City and Brooklyn in particular.
How much amount of research, if any, was done while writing your first book?
I don't do a lot of research except for the basics when it comes to certain locales that may be used in the story. The main reason why I don't do much research is that my two books are intensely personal and many of the experiences and thoughts come directly from my own life.
What is the great question you do not understand from your childhood until now?
The question from childhood would be: How come people don't seem to give as much as they can (whether it be in relationships/friendships/team dynamic of sports)? But I now understand that people give what they can. People mean well. And it's incumbent on me to be accepting of that and not be judgmental.
What are some common mistakes young writers tend to make?
I don't know if I call this a mistake, but it sometimes seems that many young writers seek a lot of feedback on their work. My advice is...have confidence in your story and your ability to write a compelling story.
Do you ever leave book reviews on other author's books? What do reviews mean to you?
I must admit I don't do many book reviews, if at all. The closest I get to doing a review is if a writer friend wants me to take a look at their work and give some general insights. And I haven't done that in years. I'm conflicted about reviews. I really like reading reviews and critical analysis (typically AFTER I read a book or movie). But regarding my own work, I haven't done as good a job as I should in getting more reviews for my books. When all is said and done, the main thing I want from a review is just that it to be well thought out and hopefully it will reflect an attempt to achieve a deep understanding of the novel. That doesn't mean it has to be positive, but the review should reflect that critical thinking went into assessing the value of the work.
Do you think someone could be a writer if they don’t feel emotions strongly?
I think you could be a writer if you don't feel emotions strongly, however....I don't think you will be a writer who writes compelling fiction if you don't feel emotions strongly.
What is your next book and when is it coming?
I intend for my next book to be a dystopian novel. I'm hoping I can do it in record time for me which would be in a year. That might be tough 🙂
When did you join AllAuthor? What do you think of the experience so far?
I've been on AllAuthor since July/August. I really enjoy the experience. I'm very appreciative of the support you provide independent authors such as myself. I absolutely love your mock-up ads. I'm always playing around with your Image maker. AllAuthor is a great service!