Evolution in Progress as a Black Author

As a child, I developed a love for the written word. I loved getting immersed in worlds created from another’s imagination. I’d read about different experiences and begin to imagine what life’s possibilities could be for me. Reading about the adventurous lives of inquisitive, creative children, teenage drama, and later, the trials of adulthood, allowed me to see the world in new ways.

The problem was that I found few of those worlds filled with people who looked like me. Most characters were blond or red-haired with pale skin and blue or gray eyes. The stories that reflected my culture often centered around overcoming tragedy, shaped by violence and hardship. Meanwhile, other books focused on simpler struggles, like relocating or making new friends. I know that overcoming tragedy is a powerful narrative, but it is not the only story of Black culture. We face economic, sociological, and geographic challenges just like others, yet our experiences are also filled with joy, success, and resilience. I wanted to create a positive story about successful Black individuals who contribute to the world in meaningful ways.

Thinking back to the folk stories I heard as a child and how families came together to uplift each other, I began crafting the world around Sequoya. Her journey was meant to be a raw, emotional exploration of self-discovery. Ironically, there have been moments in my life where I relate to how my protagonist approaches things, but more often than not, I’d say she is much more free-spirited than I am.

The development of her character over two books fills me with pride, as readers witness her stepping into uncomfortable places and evolving before their eyes. I hope my writing has shown the same type of growth, and I can’t wait to see what my next project brings.

The Power of Black Women’s Voices in Literature

There are countless voices in the world, but rarely do we hear one that truly has something meaningful to say. When I come across a voice that speaks with depth, authenticity, and purpose, I’m always willing to listen. This is especially true in the realm of Black women authors, where storytelling isn’t just an art, but a legacy.

My literary inspirations are no secret: Alice Walker, Maya Angelou, and Toni Morrison. If you’re a Black woman in the U.S., chances are one (or all) of these literary giants have influenced your life in some way. Their works, each a classic in its own right, have transcended generations, adapting to the evolving culture while continuing to shape our understanding of identity, resilience, and history.

Alice Walker’s The Color Purple has been a cornerstone of Black storytelling, from its 1985 film adaptation to its long-running Broadway productions, and most recently, a powerful reimagining in 2023. Maya Angelou’s Phenomenal Woman made its way into pop culture, featured in the 1993 film Poetic Justice, proving that poetry can be just as relevant in a young Black woman’s everyday life as it is in literary circles. Toni Morrison’s Beloved was adapted for the big screen in 1998, offering a haunting and necessary exploration of the psychological impact of post-slavery trauma.

These women didn’t just write stories, they created worlds that connected us, challenged us, and empowered us. Their words continue to shape the way we see ourselves and the world around us. I can only hope to have a fraction of their impact, using my own voice to connect, inspire, and uplift, just as they did.

Who are the Black women writers that have influenced your journey? Let’s celebrate their voices together.

Endings and Beginnings: A Reflection

As I sit and reflect on endings, I realize that everything is a circle. There is always a new beginning pushing up against an ending. This isn't a new idea, but more of an effort for me to move out of my own way. I've struggled to connect with my next story and how I'd like to share it, and I’ve come to the conclusion that it’s hard to think of the next story while I’m still immersed in the current one.

I love where I have been led to share, and I hope that I can share more of myself in an effort to continue feeding the community. This connection is one that I cherish, and I truly hope you do too. Just remember, whenever you hear from me, it’s my intent to speak directly to you. One of the greatest joys of being human is interpersonal connection.

Hope we can connect soon!