When did you know you wanted to be a writer?
I knew I would be an author ever since the day I finished reading Giovanni’s Room by James Baldwin. I lied across my bed thinking about how emotive the novel was and that’s when the thought of being an author enter my mind. From that day forward I knew I would be an author I just didn’t know during what phase of my life it would occur.
What genre do you write and why?
I write urban fiction that focuses on social and domestic issues. I like to shed light on issues going on in urban families and communities that often go unspoken.
Tell us about your latest book.
Abnormal Lives is about two cousins, Simone and Stefan, who are more like brother and sister, having been raised by their now deceased maternal grandmother. Both of their mothers abandoned them at various ages, leaving them to fend for themselves. The two turn to prostitution to make ends meet. Stefan, who is gay and also a cross-dresser, struggles with the stigma he faces because of his sexuality and Simone struggles with the task of being her own person and taking charge of her life. Although all Simone and Stefan have are each other there is constant conflict between them because Simone resents Stefan for consistently rubbing her shortcomings in her face while never admitting to his own and Stefan loathes Simone for being too weak to take responsibility for her own life.
What marketing methods are you using to promote your book? I mostly promote my book through social networking and online interviews. I also pass out handouts with information about my book whenever I’m out and about to get the word out about Abnormal Lives.
What formats is the book available in?
Abnormal Lives is available in trade paperback and e-book format
What do you like to do when you're not writing?
I’m the true definition of the term homebody. I love nothing more than spending time with my loved ones and that’s what I do when I’m not writing.
Who are your favorite authors?
Two of my favorite authors are James Baldwin and Iceberg Slim. I love James Baldwin’s stirring and provocative writing style and Iceberg Slim’s raw unadulterated voice
What advice do you have for other writers?
I’m new to this so the only advice I feel confident giving is don’t let self-criticism or the criticism of others prevent you from pursuing your dream.
What's your favorite quote about writing/for writers?
I wrote my first novel because I wanted to read it –Toni Morrison.
What's the best thing about being a writer?
The best thing about being a writer is the joy of creating a story that’s never been told before.
Where can people find out more about you and your writing?
People can find out more about me and my writing by visiting me onfacebook at http://www.facebook.com/AuthoressRae or by following me on twitter at https://twitter.com/#!/Itsjust_Rae.
Anything else you'd like to add?
I would like to thank everyone who has supported my venture. As a new author it really means a lot to me.
