Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I include my first book, “The Little Rabbit” which I wrote in the 4th grade for my parents. I did all the illustrations and story myself; seeing the look on their faces inspired me to do more. Since then I have written many collections of short stories, poetry, and prose such as “The Criminal Color” and “Wisdom of the Tiger.”
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is “Wisdom of the Tiger.” It is six months of compelling daily meditative musings and striking photography to get your mind and soul galvanized, powerful, and passionate about your life. I like to synthesize my writing and photography as one flowing piece of art as a metaphor of differing components of life that work together harmoniously.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Midnight to 4 is my best time for writing. I have at least 2 computers in front of me and each has a different writing project on it. I can go from project to project as long as they all have their own space and project. It is my wish to one day have a room of 7 or 8 different laptops and work to complete each project at the same time.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Maya Angelou, Arthur Koestler, Joseph Campbell, Nikki Giovanni, Nathan Rutstein, Tao of Jeet Kune Do, 1984, The Edge Chronicles.
What are you working on now?
I have just completed a novel and am very excited to see where it goes. It has taken me quite some time to get it where I wanted it and it feels good to release it into the universe.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I am still working on this one but it seems that blogging is very effective yet time consuming.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Cliche alert; do it. “I’m going to write a book one day” may mean “I’m never going to write a book one day.” Today is the day; do it.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
So and so sold 100,00 books why can’t you do it? Questions like that used to break my spirit a bit but my mother asked me once “are you tired of writing and do you hate it?” I answered very quickly “no, I am in no way tired.” “Then continue; when you get tired, very tired, quit it.” Her words are extra special as she has recently passed away. I continue for her and me.
What are you reading now?
James Balwin, I’m Not Your Negro.
What’s next for you as a writer?
As a writer of plays also, I am playing a production of my play Damn Victims as well as get my novel ready for print.
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?
Shackleton, Roland Hunford. Wisdom of the Idiots, Idries Shah, Touch The Earth, T.C. McLuhan
Author Websites and Profiles
Jeanne Misha Martinez Carter Website
Jeanne Misha Martinez Carter Amazon Profile
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