1.  How do you approach conversation with someone who has different opinions or beliefs than you do? Do you think the division that exists in this country right now can be mended?

I don't. When someone's beliefs are deep, it doesn't matter what you say, they believe what they believe. I lead by example and actions. The division that exist in this country(assuming you mean the States) has to be acknowledged first and can only be mended once we start at the root of the problem aka white supremacy, capitalism, patriarchy, hyper masculinity etc. That questions pretty loaded, would need way more time to dig into it.

2.  What was the writing process like for your book? Idea etc.

I started with the illustrations, then I wrote the words. I wrote the words as if I were speaking directly to girls of color. Which I am!

3.  What's the best book you've read in 2017?

James Baldwin's "Just Above My Head" and The new Power Rangers graphic novels( lol, I'm a HUGE rangers fan, since the 90s, it's morphin time!)

4.  What’s the best advice you've received about happiness?

Don't stress about things you can not change.

5.  Why should people read your book?

Because they want to. Because it's important that black, brown and girls of color know the matter. Because the illustrations are fun!

6.  Do you plan to write more books in the future?

I actually have books out before this one and I am working on a few more.

7.  What’s your best advice for getting through writer’s block?

Let go. Stop thinking about what you feel the book should be and let it be what it is. Find out where you do the best work and go there!

8.  How have women specifically African American women positively influenced you in your past?

Past, present, and future! The women in my life are everything, they speak life into me even when I don't deserve it.

9.  How does your artistic background influence your writing style?

I went to school for animation and illustration. I learned how to write scripts and storyboards. I'm shit at grammar, but I'm an excellent storyteller( so I've been told).

10.  What motivated you to become an author?

I'm a huge advocate of DIY and reclaiming and telling your own stories. I have a lot to say and this is the best way I know how.

12.  Why Is Important Specifically That Black Boys Respect Black Girls?

It's important that ALL boys respect girls, I just so happen to be black so that is the perspective I know and speak from.

13.  Who Is A Black Women in History You Admire and Why?

Nina Simone, I play piano as well and her arrangements are off the chart! Not to mention her advocation for black people and how powerful her voice and music were and is for us! 

Header Photo Courtesy of: Lawrence Lindell