Black History Month Author Spotlight: DeAnna Lynn
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.
DeAnna, we are so excited that you have stepped into the Black History Month Author Spotlight! Please introduce your latest book to our audience.
SOAR! is an engaging book to teach boys of color about overcoming stereotypes and adversity. Throughout the book, boys of color will learn to push past the negative influences in their lives and come to appreciate how unique they truly are. Readers will have a greater understanding of the royalty and power in their bloodline, which will allow them to overcome the circumstances in their lives. This is the perfect book for children who are learning to rise above adversity.
Why was it important for you to write this story?
The racial injustice uprising of the summer of 2020 was the catalyst for me writing this book. And, as an educator, the primary thing I find so elusive is reaching and engaging children from disenfranchised communities and equipping them to cope with negative environmental influences. So, this also served as motivation for writing this story.
Describe your writing process or writing schedule.
I begin my writing process by determining my “why” or my purpose for that book. I think of who my ideal buyer/ideal audience is, and why they would purchase my book. From there, I start to choose a particular rhythm, or meter, that I would like to write my book in. This allows me to pace the text of the book. As for my writing schedule, I typically begin my writing in the evenings after teaching. I may brainstorm or write some weeknights from 7pm until midnight or later. I try to leave my weekends open for relaxation and self-care.
Who is your favorite black author and how has that author inspired your writing journey?
My favorite black authors are Erin Goseer Mitchell and Jacqueline Woodson. I found Erin Goseer Mitchell’s writing to be relatable as she tells of her life as a young adult and educator in Chicago, IL. She also shares her experiences with colorism within the Black community. I love using Jacqueline Woodson’s work both in the classroom and as inspiration for myself when writing culturally and socially relevant literature specifically for girls of color.
Share a quote from your book or your favorite black history quote.
“When I look at me, I see a golden-brown king! I come from strength amazing!” (This is a quote from my book SOAR!)
What words of advice do you have for aspiring authors?
I would encourage aspiring authors to determine their “why” (or a purpose they are passionate about) when beginning to write a book. This allows one to have a focal point to refer to during the writing process. I would also encourage aspiring authors to surround themselves with those who they can learn from, and those who thoroughly understand and genuinely support your purpose.
What has been the most challenging part of the writing or publishing journey?
I think the hardest part for me was just getting started and finding the right path/steps to take… and finding that guidance and expertise from someone who could show me which steps to take, all the way from brainstorming to marketing. I’m glad I have found a community of other authors who I can learn from and network with. We’re all on the same team, so to speak; their successes are my successes, and vice versa. My biggest self-publishing challenge was likely just starting out on my journey and balancing a full-time job with writing… that took a few months to adjust to. As a very disciplined person, I found it fairly easy to adapt to the new work-life balance. It helps to be a self-motivated and self-disciplined person.
What is next on your journey and how can we support your book?
I have another book I will publish this year, and I look forward to using my knowledge of culturally responsive teaching to reach communities of color through children’s books. My books are available for purchase on Amazon or at LADIWORKZ in Rockford, IL. You can find me at authordeannalynn.com, or @authordeannalynn across all social media platforms.
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.
