What is your genre? What draws you to this genre?
My genre of writing is African American Storytelling and Poetry. I love stories and poetry that speak about my culture, our struggles, our victories, and our history.
What is your purpose?
My purpose is to provide a platform for writers of all communities to have a space to tell their truth and explore their creative worlds eye view. However, my first love is to provide a space for the African/African American writer to be heard. That includes my voice. I want to be heard and appreciated. I want to have my say!
Who has influenced your life as an author?
My influence has come from Sonia Sanchez, The Last Poets, Maya Angelou, Nikki Giovanni, Gil Scott Hearn, Amiri Baraka, and many voices from the Black Arts Movement.
What is your favorite marketing technique? How do you get your book in front of readers?
I use Facebook, Poetry readings, and various programs such as Kwanzaa, and Black History Month. I also use book fairs and panel discussions. I have a weekly television show and an internet television show. I also use my Writers Wordshop to promote my books.
While my writings are almost exclusively about the African American experience, I see my writings as an extension of my ministry. My writings can be full of emotion, such as anger and despair, but I try to stay within the context of being God-fearing and respectful to my calling. It is a balancing act to be sure, but first and foremost I am a believer and a Servant Warrior. I want my writings to reflect that.
What are you reading right now?
I am currently reading “A Promised Land” by President Barack Obama.
Three Fun Facts about me: I love watching Television and going to the movies more than I like reading
What is something you want readers to know about you?
I was an active member of the National Alliance of Third World Journalists. I traveled to Beirut, Lebanon, Cuba, and Grenada back in the Eighties when it was very dangerous to do so. I got a chance to present my poetry to Yasser Arafat, Chairman of the PLO. I also met with Maurice Bishop, Prime Minister of Grenada, who was murdered less than a month later.
3 Fun facts about yourself.
I love seafood and diet soda way too much.
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