Baseem Gregg

Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Thus far I’ve written four children’s books, two of which are ready and published. I’ve been writing short stories, poetry, and essays since I was a kid. But when I decided to publish my work, I wanted to focus on children, especially children of color. As an African American man, I know first hand how important it is for children who may look like me to have the ability to see themselves on-page and fall in love with characters they may directly relate to.

What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Crown & Glory: Embrace Your Hair

This title and book came from a poem I wrote years ago. As the title suggests, it speaks of the importance of embracing your hair. However, not just your hair. The uniqueness, self-love, and individualism that comes with it. It truly is one that can be enjoyed by not only young readers but also their parents and grandparents, too.

Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I don’t know if it’s unusual… I have my best writing excursions during the wee hours. I’m talking 2 or 3 am. It’s not uncommon for me to wake up, grab my phone and type out whatever thought I was having, or get out of bed and head directly to the laptop. But, is that unusual? As writers, our minds are constantly giving us ideas, themes, and characters. That’s what makes us “different” than most. So I say, hey writer, you’re not unusual, you’re perfect at what you do and how you create. Keep going and keep sharing!

What authors, or books have influenced you?
How much space do we have (lol)? I’ve enjoyed everything from classics like “The Little Engine That Could” and “Charlotte’s Web” up to modern titles and genres. Personally, I am not attached to specific authors or genres… a great tale is simply a great tale.

What are you working on now?
I am currently working with an illustrator for my next children’s book entitled “Wanna Hear A Song”. The book is centered around an autistic child and is a testament to how amazing and talented these kids are.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Honestly, I am new to this. Currently, everything is done via word of mouth, social media and very little internet marketing. My goal is to dive into the promoting side of things in the new year to maximize exposure. It should be fun and I’m looking forward to it.

Do you have any advice for new authors?
Yes, one word… WRITE! Overthinking things and procrastinating is killing your thunder. You have something special inside of you and I want you to write it so I can read it.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?
When I was roughly 13 years old I overheard someone say “If you live your life for others, you’re not living at all.” Obviously, that quote is within reason and context but it has stayed with me all these years.

What are you reading now?
I’m currently re-reading “The Energy Bus” by Jon Gordon.

What’s next for you as a writer?
At this second, my goal is five published children’s books and once they’re out then I’ll finally tackle the two adult titles I’ve been loosely working on.

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?
Before I answer, I must acknowledge how much of a nightmare that scenario is for a writer/reader. In no special order (other than the first one) I would say…

“Deeply Rooted”
It is my first children’s book and extremely special to me on multiple levels.
“The Energy Bus” by Jon Gordon
If nothing at all I need to keep my focus and energy up to hopefully get off the island.
“The Count of Monte Cristo” by Alexandre Dumas
If you’ve read this book, it’s self-explanatory of why it needs to be with me.
“The Bible”
It’s arguably the greatest book ever written and sure to have something to fit any situation I may come across or feeling I’d experience while on the island.

Author Websites and Profiles
Baseem Gregg Amazon Profile

Baseem Gregg’s Social Media Links
Facebook Profile