Interview With Author Hamidatu Kandey Alhassan
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Writing has always been a love, though I didn’t always take it seriously. I started with feature articles for Ghanaian blogs, then ventured into running my own (though it’s no longer active). Now, with ‘The Stumble with Doom’ as my debut novel, I’m determined to tell more unique stories from my vibrant city, Accra.
Born and raised in Ghana’s capital, I’m a proud graduate of the Ghana Institute of Journalism (now the University of Media, Arts and Communication). As a single mom and restaurant cook, I juggle my passions with the realities of life. But my dedication to writing burns bright, and I’m eager to share more of Accra’s soul with the world.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My friend’s playful challenges, throwing random ideas my way, birthed the germ of ‘The Stumble with Doom.’ When the world faced a new threat, I poured that creativity into the pages, resulting in my current book.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
My characters are keeping me company—a little too well, maybe? Writer’s block? I never heard of her!
What authors, or books have influenced you?
For fiction, I will say Peggy Oppong’s “No roses for Sharon and “Lemon suitcase.”
For non-fiction, it is “As a Man Thinketh” by James Allen.
Then “The Ancestral Sacrifice” by Kaakyire Akosombo Nyantakyi
What are you working on now?
I’m writing a heartwarming children’s story that explores themes of family, love, and finding your forever home, and my other project is a supernatural thriller that explores unconventional relationships and the complexities of human nature.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
For promotion, I’ve been focusing on social media strategies. While I haven’t used any paid services yet besides Awesomegang, I’m actively building an online presence.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Just write!
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
“Be yourself.”
What are you reading now?
My manuscripts. But I’ve gotten “So Long a Letter” by Mariama Ba to read!
What’s next for you as a writer?
While self-publishing has been a valuable experience, I’m now setting my sights on the world of traditional publishing. Let’s just say, I’m ready to graduate from the self-made stage.
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?
1. “You can be the happiest woman in the world” by Dr. Aidal Qarni
2. “Between the world and me” by Ta-Nehisi Coates
3. “The monk who sold his ferrari” by Robin Sharma
4. “In the Chest of a Woman” by Efo Kodjo Mawugbe
Author Websites and Profiles
Hamidatu Kandey Alhassan Amazon Profile
Hamidatu Kandey Alhassan’s Social Media Links
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