Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m a little girl from Kentucky that was always drawn to fantasy stories. It was a way for me to engage in exciting adventures in faraway lands that I would otherwise never experience. As I got older, I found that immersing herself in those tales in my childhood would lead me to writing my own. I’m the author of two children’s fantasy adventure stories: Anyia, Dream of a Warrior, and Talee and the Fallen Object.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
It was daydreaming that led to the idea of Anyia, Dream of a Warrior; a strong willed warrior that would challenge her village’s traditions. A character that would take the chance to follow her dream of being who she was.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
The process itself varies depending on the book. Since Talee and the Fallen Object started out as a coloring book, I always start her books with images. It helps to keep the story simple because the story has to connect through a limited number of images. The one thing I have noticed that is consistent with the beginning of new stories is that I always begin with a character in mind. From there I work on the world and I start a character journal where the characters talk about their day and what goes on in their lives.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I read a lot of fantasy and science fiction books as well as watch a lot of movies in the genre. I would say that watching the Avatar: the Last Airbender cartoon series with my son really influenced my writing style.
What are you working on now?
I working on the next installments of Talee and Anyia as well as a new series, Ava Brooks, whom I think is a fun feisty character that people will love. And I’ll continue to work on more stories and more worlds for readers to enjoy.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Facebook ads has been a great help in getting my books out their as well as Amazon ads.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
To do it if you love it! I wouldn’t be publishing books if I didn’t love being a storyteller. It’s hard work to get people to give you a chance. There are a lot of obstacles and a lot of do-it-yourself projects, but because I love what I do it doesn’t bother me so much. Just remember, there are going to be bad days. There will be tough times and decisions but if you love what you are doing that’s not going to stop you. Take a step at a time. Take a step everyday toward your dream. You will find a way to make it work and keep on going, and in the end it will all be worth it.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Don’t give up on yourself.
What are you reading now?
Artemis by Andy Weir
Epoch Shift by Jake Lingwall
Ogilvy on Advertising by David Ogilvy
What’s next for you as a writer?
I will continue Talee and Anyia on their journeys as well as introduce Ava Brooks and work on more stories and more worlds for readers to enjoy.
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?
I don’t read books twice so I would take a kindle with a solar panel battery charger and fill it up books.
Author Websites and Profiles
Jacquitta McManus Website
Jacquitta McManus Amazon Profile
Jacquitta McManus’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
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