Interview With Author Javier Rhoden
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m Javier Rhoden, an independent author and publisher of four poetry books that involve my experiences or the experiences of others from which I’ve learned from. These books are my own journey through life that has helped me to shape myself all these years.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
What inspired Twilight Zone was my strong desire to be heard in an environment that wasn’t open to what was said. I believe there is transformative power in being able to switch your perspectives for a better thought process or outcome of something; you just have to be open. The poems tackle subjects that may be touchy for some, without a judgemental attitude but instead a desire to learn from it all.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
My poems are written but they’re meant to be read aloud; I’d say that’s unusual…not every poem can write from their stream of consciousness.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I used to have a library consisting of James Redfield, Don Miguel Ruiz, Kahlil Gibran, Sylvia Plath, Charles Bukowski, Pablo Neruda, e.e cummings, Maya Angelou, Langston Huges, T.S. Eliot, Walt Whitman, Emily Dickinson and so much more. However, life itself has been the most influential.
What are you working on now?
Currently, I’m working on my fifth poetry book, a novel and some children’s books.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
My best method is to reach out to review groups and/or teams within your niche that will read your book and leave an honest review. I have tried marketing and more, however I always resort to this.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
My advice to new authors is to learn how to be independent and never give up on the work you’ve put your heart and soul into.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
The best advice I’ve read was once you begin your own journey of something, you’ll outgrow people and that can be scary, because their the ones familiar to you, but grow anyway. There will be new people that you meet who can and will help you along the way. Another advice was to stay independent and not to sign to a publisher. Forget the money and focus on the love of it.
What are you reading now?
I’m currently reading some indie romance ‘Our Neverland’ by A. Raven.
What’s next for you as a writer?
That’s a good question…life took an interesting turn when I began to battle with a chronic illness and could no longer do for myself. Once it becomes more manageable, I’ll definitely put out the work I have unpublished.
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?
Out of all the authors I’ve read and respect, I’d kindly take my own on the island. My poetry empowers me, hence how I know it can do the same for others.
Author Websites and Profiles
Javier Rhoden Author Profile on Smashwords
Javier Rhoden’s Social Media Links