Black History Month Author Spotlight: Virtuous Cornwall
Autherine Publishing is committed to creating more diversity in the publishing industry by supporting both emerging and established authors. In honor of Black History Month, we are amplifying the voices of black authors by featuring 28 emerging authors. Please read their stories and continue to follow their writing journey.
Thank you for stepping into Autherine Publishing’s Author Spotlight. Please share your background and journey with us.
I was born in the United States but raised in West Africa Ghana. I love and embrace both cultures. As an alumni of Rutgers University, my life profession has always been geared towards serving children and families. My desire is to cater to children, especially the ones in the Inner City by teaching and mentoring them to be their very best. Writing is my passion because it allows me to educate and inspire. Fun fact: I love dancing! I have taught lyrical dance over the years. For nearly 15 years I had dreamt of becoming a children’s author. In 2019 that dream became a realty after having my son and the Animalsville series was born. Since the pandemic, I provide FREE story and activity times Live on my Facebook page. Another fun fact, I have a pet bunny named Snow.
Please tell us about your latest book.
Animalsville Virus Busters is an adventurous story that teaches children how to practice good hygiene to prevent the spread of germs and viruses. At school, Little Doggins experienced something unpleasant which led his teacher Mrs Flamingozip to read a story about germs and viruses. Little Doggins along with his two class mates Little Owlfin and Little Elephanta took a trip to the library to learn more. This led them to create the Virus Busters team. This is an adventurous, educational story about living a healthy lifestyle and practicing good hygiene. It also teaches children the power of unity and how working together yields great results. Further the poem in the story will get kids excited to practice good hygiene.
Describe your writing process or writing schedule.
My writing schedule is complex, as a military wife, mom, teacher and mentor I have to be very strategic in finding time to write. I am most creative when I'm inspired by an event or a personal experience; once that happens I jot down my thoughts then in my spear time I revisit my notes and expand on it.
Who is your favorite black author and how has that author inspired your writing journey?
Cindy Trimm is one of my favorite black author. She is great at the work she does as a believer but most of all her books inspire both believers and nonbelievers. I love her transparency and how she engage with her audience. She inspires me to use all my God given gifts to be a blessing to children and families. I was elated to see her on the cover of O magazine this season, she truly deserves that and more.
Share a quote from your book or your favorite black history quote.
This is a quote from a poem that I wrote, "Black History Is You Are African, Period." In honor of Black History 2021 I wrote this poem and I plan on turning it into a children's book. The poem is titled Africans!
What words of advice do you have for aspiring authors?
Don't compare your style or journey with others. Be your best and shine bright. You are unique and you have something that the world needs.
What has been the most challenging part of the writing or publishing journey?
The most challenging part of my publishing journey is getting my books out there. Marketing has being difficult but with time I have learned and continue to understand the strategy in this area.
What is next on your journey and how can we support your book?
Thanks for asking me this question. I have some so much in store. As I write my illustrator and I are working on one story under the Animalsville series titled "Animalsville Thankful Day". A new book is in the works titled "The Promise Still Stands," this book will be under my new series "Humansville."
The Animalsville series is quite an adventure; you can find additional information about the Animalsville series of book and make a purchase HERE. Share with librarians and your favorite teachers; they will love this series.
Autherine Publishing is an independent, minority-owned publisher that specializes in books and educational materials that are culturally diverse with a preference for books that teach and inspire (self-help, memoirs, poetry, life and business instructional). EXPLORE OUR SERVICES. We are also the parent company of the Island Mindful Path, which publishes inspirational courses and products. We can help with all of your publishing needs including, book coaching, idea development, manuscript editing, cover design, production, book promotion and ghostwriting. We are committed to transforming your story into your legacy! Contact us if you have additional questions. Follow on Instagram.
