Black History Month Author Spotlight: Erika Gibson
Thanks for participating in Autherine Publishing’s Black History Month Author Spotlight, please introduce your latest book to our audience.
I would like to introduce one of my four recent releases. My Life Matters is a powerful book that follows the journey of siblings Aiyden and Aliyah, as they learn valuable lessons from their parents about their history, culture and fighting for justice, equality, and unity. This beautifully illustrated book includes meaningful messages to educate and build confidence in children from all races, ethnicities, self-identities.
Why was it important for you to write this story?
In a time of social unrest in our country, I was inspired to write this children’s book as a way to jumpstart important and necessary conversations with children and to also charge parents, educators, and communities to combat injustice and build awareness, action and self-value for kids.
Describe your writing process or writing schedule.
As an advocate for children and because of the significance of the messages that I wanted to include in my books, writing children’s stories was natural and easy for me. My process included prioritizing the meaning and messages that I wanted to include and then converting those messages into a rhythmic form that could be easily interpreted by children.
Who is your favorite black author and how has that author inspired your writing journey?
Currently, I am inspired by Ibram X. Kendi, whose writing focuses on anti-racism. As an author, it is important to me to empower, inspire, encourage, and educate children through print literature where black and brown children can see themselves in the characters. As Kendi aims to educate about history and racism, I seek to diversify and change the landscape of books for children of color by rewriting our story, one book at a time.
What words of advice do you have for aspiring authors?
My advice for aspiring authors would first be to find your passion and discover what messages would be conveyed in your writings. Research publishing options, define your target audience, and lastly, manifest your purpose. The most important piece of advice would be to use each obstacle that may arise as fuel to reach your goal, as our challenges are sometimes, just as important as our successes.
What has been the most challenging part of the writing or publishing journey?
As an independent author, the publishing process was challenging at times. The most challenging experience was the final formatting and uploading of book files to the different publishing distribution agencies, as each has different requirements. However, I gained a wealth of experience throughout the process, which has equipped me for future projects.
What is next on your journey and how can we support your book?
My writing journey is ongoing. I am working on some complimentary books and resources to accompany my current works, such as coloring and activity books, journals, and more. There is a disparity of children’s books that represent children of color.My Life Matters addresses current issues, while also instilling hope in children. The valuable lessons in this book can be shared with any child and support can be provided by simply starting the conversation with children about why their lives matter.
Additional information about Erika’s books are available on her website and on Instagram. Her books are also available on Amazon.
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.
