1. Could you tell us a little bit about yourself?
I am a writer who enjoys writing in multiple genres (poetry, fiction, reviews, and YA). Writing is a craft that challenges one to reach inside and tap into those recesses that are typically left dormant.
An effective writer has to tell his or her story in their singular format.
2. Describe your book Plucking Poetry from the Air (The Encourageable Endeavors of Calliope Spencer) in 30 words or less.
Calliope is a resilient, young lady who lives and breathes poetry. Calliope will not rest until she creates a poem that soars above all the rest of her classmates’ pieces.
3. What was the hardest part of writing your book?
The most difficult task in writing Plucking Poetry from the Air was tailoring the classroom lectures that centered on the analyses of renown poems. One has to be able to make the lectures intriguing to the reader, without coming across as sounding too academic.
4. What books have had the greatest influence on you?
I love and still adore Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry by Mildred D. Taylor, Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret., and Blubber by Judy Blume. These books opened up new worlds for me and comforted me when I felt inadequate and was filled with self-doubt. Books allow youngsters a means of escape and a sense of immediate belonging that is oftentimes difficult to find at school. You do not have to say the right words to be a member of the cool cliques.
When I turned the pages of their books, I discovered a sense of solidarity with an author that I knew nothing about, for the exception of their moving narratives. I knew at a young age that I would be a writer and that I would learn the intricacies of this venerable craft.
5. Briefly share with us what you do to market your book?
I arranged a book took with OrangeBerry Book Tours. The owner, Pandora Poikilos, did an effective job introducing my book to forums that were completely unknown to me.
Also, I purchased ad space on sites that cater to YA readers. There are so many, so one has to select the websites that appeal to them the most.
6. How do you spend your time when you are not writing?
I produce music, compose music, sing, write, and frequent music venues that feature live Jazz/R&B Bands. Ultimately, I plan on leading my own Jazz/R&B ensemble in the future.
7. What are you working on next?
Currently, I am wrapping up a YA narrative that explores Jazz and encourages youngsters to want to excel at becoming proficient musicians. When one becomes proficient in a discipline, he or she develops a level of maturity and sense of self-worth.
