Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m a children’s book author who loves creating new worlds. I mainly write fantasy adventure stories but working on my first science fiction story and graphic novel. So far, I have nine books published, including two early-reader-chapter books, two middle-grade books, one picture book, one short comic, one coloring book, and two journal books.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is Anyia, It Begins. It’s the second book in the series. Anyia is the inspiration behind the series. It’s an epic story that follows her on a journey to test who she is as she begins to find magic, friendship, and enemies.
Synopsis:
For over 14 years, Nagoran Village had been safe from Empress Zarina and her Thor Warriors. The magic treaty, although frail, had been maintained. To help maintain that treaty, Anyia’s father, the Chief, kept magic out of the village to protect them. Anyia grew up not knowing she had magic, but an earlier meeting with Amoonda changed that. With her magic awoken, she could now charge her battle stick, and her Kail training was more intense than ever. But it all might have been for nothing. Thor Warriors captured her mother and took her to Thor City to Empress Zarina to break the magic treaty. To get her back, Anyia must go into the heart of Thor City, the place of stolen magic, and face her enemies. The cost will be high, and if she wants to succeed, she will have to give up her identity, trust a stranger, and rely on new friends. Anyia, It Begins is the second book in an epic story of a young girl’s journey to follow her dreams. This book explores identity and trust themes and is an excellent addition to any fantasy reader’s collection. It’s perfect for readers ages 8 to 12.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I don’t know if my habits are unusual, but I get ideas late at night, I love to write in the morning while I sit in my bed, I do write on my phone but usually it’s on my computer.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Not so much as books, although when I was younger, I read a lot, but TV shows have influenced me. I remember watching Avatar: the Last Airbender with my son when it first aired. I’ve always had tv shows I watched with my kids, and during the time I was watching that. I was also reading to them every night. I remember not being able to find fantasy adventure stories with characters of color for my younger daughter. It was then that I decided to start writing. So, I think that’s a significant influence. Although, I love the writing style of the Harry Potter books.
What are you working on now?
I’m currently working on two books. One is a science fiction middle-grade book, and the other is a graphic novel for middle-grade readers.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I promote primarily on my Facebook and Instagram pages.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Don’t write what you think others want to read but write what you would want to read.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
A lack of inspiration is due to a lack of research.
What are you reading now?
Star Wars: Ahsoka
What’s next for you as a writer?
To keep writing and trying different methods of storytelling.
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 know if I could pick 3-4 books, but I would bring a journal book to write my own stories. It’s good to read books but better to write them.
Author Websites and Profiles
Jacquitta McManus Website
Jacquitta McManus Amazon Profile
Jacquitta McManus’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile