Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am the Author of 4 books and was born in Georgetown, Guyana, South America. My parents were married at a young age and shared a love of the
Arts. My Father is a famous Guyanese Guitarist, who came from a household where most played
instruments. His father, my grandfather is from Barbados and migrated to Guyana in his early twenties.
My grandparents on my Dad’s side had two major similarities when they met – both shared the same
last name, Marshall, prior to their marriage and both played the guitar. My last name holds strong ties
to Guyana and Barbados. Most of my Mother’s family live in Canada and this is where I reside. I have
two beautifully intelligent sisters and an amazing son.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book, “A Piece of Black Cake for Santa” was inspired by my love of Christmas. I enjoying baking our traditional Caribbean Christmas treat – Black Cake.
Usually we all leave cookies and milk for Santa, but in my home, Black Cake was the highlight of the season. It was about time Santa had a taste!
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I love writing while listening to Jazz. It soothes me and keeps my mind active.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I am a big fan of literature by Derek Walcott, V.S. Naipaul, Walter Rodney,
Philip M. Sherlock, Maya Angelou to name a few.
What are you working on now?
My third Children’s book!
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I use facebook groups to connect with my readers. Recently, I began to blog Caribbean stories on my website.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Keep writing, there is a large audience out there awaiting your stories.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Criticism is fuel for major movements! Live, learn and grow from them.
What are you reading now?
Various children’s books for my son every night.
What’s next for you as a writer?
My goal is to be one of Canada’s most influential Caribbean Children’s book Authors. I want Children of Caribbean heritage to feel valid when they read about themselves and non-Caribbean children to learn and love all the joys of my beautiful culture.
If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
My books of course hahaha.
Author Websites and Profiles
Yolanda T. Marshall Website
Yolanda T. Marshall Amazon Profile
Yolanda T. Marshall’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account