Interview With Author Jendayi Toney
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Well, I’m a 14 year old Neurodivergent female [Tourettes, ADHD, and Autistic!] who has just recently published my first book. And, well, I wear a TON of hats, business owner, graphic designer, screenwriter, artist, and, well, author, of course! I have 7 cats [can you tell I love them? #cat-lady] and my current hyper-fixation is writing fantasy! I use a ton of hashtags, and am not afraid to ramble on and on about dragons.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The name of my novel is Eletri-Girl. It’s the story of a Black Neurodivergent female [like me!] who, one day, wakes up to see her necklace, that she acquired from a mysterious antique shop, has now given her powers. Now our protagonist is tasked with saving her city! It’s an adventurous, comedic story, inspired by lots of Spiderman and Power Rangers [Haha!] It’s a great story, according to my mom, and we’ll always trust her words!
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Well, I like to brainstorm by laying in bed, talking to myself. I sort of riff off anything I come up with there, and I came up with Eletri-Girl when I was sleeping! I also tend to take breaks and free write, which helps break up my writer’s block.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Well, there’s a TON of authors, but some I think inspire me are the female ones, especially those that discuss minorities, like Neurodivergent individuals like me! Really, I started Eletri-Girl and the rest of the franchise because I was bored, and it grew into a passion for showing that Neurodivergent characters should be properly recognized, and if a kid can do that, then everyone else can show a little compassion!
What are you working on now?
Well, it’s a fantasy series, called the Saviors of Trylen, and it’s going to be a large, very elaborate series, i’ll say. Oh, and Eletri-Girl 2? Uhh, once I get out of the hole I dug myself in with plotting… There’s another series, I won’t name it yet, but it’s a really fun one!
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Well, I’d say, as an anti-social mediaist, I would [if I had the money] share my talent, and lead everyone to my book so I can mind control them all and start a revolution—oh, sorry, what was the question?
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Well, I’d say, don’t stop. Your writing isn’t gonna be perfect by the first draft, and it’ll take some time. Take your time with your manuscript, and practice your writing skills often. You may think you should quit, but don’t stop. Perseverance makes talent. You’ll only gain experience by trying, not staring at the wall.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Wow, well, time to rack my brain… I’d say that ‘Practice doesn’t make perfect. It makes routine.’ And I agree, routine is something writers need to increase their skills daily. As a writer and author, we’re always trying to improve. As artists, we’re never done learning, as that’s human nature. We grow with active work, not waiting around for our story to write it’s self.
What are you reading now?
Well, I’d say, a lot of business management/SEO marketing books. And some older ones, but a lot of screenplays, as I am writing one.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Well, hopefully, to get my novel popular, and get my name out there, and finally start my business, so I can accomplish my goals!
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?
Hmm, well, this may be kind of self-centered, but all of my novels. What? they’re good! But to be realistic, maybe one fantasy book from Nick Alimonos. I’ve saved his novel in my ‘to read soon’ list, and am such a big fan of his blogs. They’ve really helped me with my journey.
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