Inside The Mind Of Justinah McFadden

Posted on 23. Jan, 2010 in Justinah-McFadden

Recently, I sat down with the author, in hopes of getting Inside The Mind Of Justinah McFadden.  What I found was a mind full of ideals that the most veteran of authors would want to examine. This lady has what it takes to make the NY Times Bestselling Author list. Read my interview with Justinah McFadden and see for yourself, a star in the making. -Nicole S. Ross

How old were you when you began writing?

I was eight years old when I first began writing poetry. I started to read about the Harlem Renaissance and I fell in love with the writing of Langston Hughes and it was over from there. In 3rd Grade my teacher Mrs. Smith asked each student to write one short story about any topic. I ended up writing an entire book over the weekend and when I showed it to Mrs. Smith,  I will never forget the look in her eyes as she congratulated me. I can also remember how proud my mother was that I had written a book at 8 YEARS OLD.  I knew I had a gift from God and it was a gift that I have opened everyday of my life since then.
What influenced you to start writing?

I had a difficult childhood and hard upbringing and writing has always been like an escape to me. I’ve always enjoyed creating characters and writing poetry, stories and being free with my thoughts. Not only was it a way to escape my reality it was always a release. How we all need oxygen to live,  is how I need to write my thoughts.  It’s something that I truly could never live without.

What forms of writing do you prefer? Poetry or Novels?

I have written five poetry books and I am currently working on my second Novel so I suppose I like both. Poetry has been a first love of mine for a while. However, I have always loved to create characters in my head and watch them grow. While I love all my books they all hold a different meaning to them. A meaning which is close to my heart and that I choose to share with the world.

Who are your favorite writers?
Wally Lamb, Toni Morrison, Langston Hughes, Shakespeare, God, Maya Angelou, Justinah McFadden ) and all the writers under Collection of Thoughts because I truly believe in their work and vision.

What have you accomplished as an author since you began?

I have accomplished so much as an author since I have entered the world of publishing. My first book had a bit of a bumpy road, but now that I am currently writing my 7th book it is smooth sailing. I realize that although I am a writer, life does take its course and no matter what, I kept writing and chasing my dream. With my first book I knew I was a good writer, but I was not as confident of a writer as I am today. I now know who I am as I have worked on myself and taken my writing to new heights by being in my truth. I have made Poet Of The Year every year since 1999 until 2009. In 2008 I was named an Ambassador of Poetry by the International Library of Congress. My biggest achievement thus far was going to London and having my poetry books listed in the Germany Book Fair. Many blessings have come from my experiences in London and New York, and through chasing my dreams. I am hungry and it’s not just for food, but a hunger for my dreams to come true. So here’s to my future, you look beautiful.

How do you feel your books will influence others and what type of message are you trying to send to writers?

I am trying to send the message that you need faith, hope, and belief to make it in this world and to make any of your dreams come true. I also send light to the world through my writing by being so honest and revealing layers of my soul. The message is clear WHEN WE CHANGE OUR THOUGHTS WE CHANGE OUR WORLD. Each character, and every sentence is created to teach a lesson and have readers examine their own world.

Tell us about your most recent book. Do you plan to continue writing?

My latest book is “The Journey of Love”, which is about what happens when your heart is open. The possibilities are endless with an open heart. This book was written for Valentines Day 2010. “The Thirteenth Day”, is a Novel… my first Novel.. surrounding a conspiracy during World War II. Through secret letters from the past, presidents, and conspiracies, this book reveals a secret that occurred on a spring day in May during Jim Crowes’ South. Through murder, redemption, and a mystery so huge, it has readers excited to turn the next page. This book examines history, class and race in America, with proof that there is healing when the truth comes to the light. My second novel is “The Hour of Retribution”, which is a sequel to The Thirteenth Day…the conspiracy continues.

What advice would you give to your fans and readers about writing and becoming a published author?

My advice is to do as much research as you can and to NOT waste any time finding a reason not to pursue your dream. Take what you have and find a way. I also recommend knowing what you’re writing, why you’re writing it, what type of story you are trying to tell. My point is, be aware of your goals and what it is that you hope to accomplish as an author. I also recommend that a writer treat each project like a car they were saving for. Create a budget for the publishing, and marketing costs of your books. Begin to market yourself with a website, blogs, etc. Most importantly, you must believe in your work and believe in yourself. I always tell my clients at Collection of Thoughts that it’s impossible to sell, promote, something that you’re not excited about. Get excited about your work and take it seriously, write everyday, don’t find excuses, find the time. Most importantly, create a vision and if you can see yourself on Oprah’s sofa telling her about your book you will be there. It’s hard work and the publishing road is a journey, but its a road to GREATNESS.

Any plans for the future?

To grow and expand my domestic violence organization. Save thousands of victims from abusive relationships. I also know that my publicist firm will excel and reach levels of paramount success. I also plan to write a few screen plays, wrestle with being an actress, continue to work on my poetry, and become a lawyer with a focus in Civil Rights. I can also see myself being a mother and a wife someday soon, but until then I am just focused on God, my dreams, family and friends. Life has never been better. [said while looking up to the sky]

Tags: Authors of Poetry, Featured, Justinah-McFadden, publishing