Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m your average 26 year old writer who loves to live inside his head for most of the time. I’m from Nigeria. I’m the last of 9 kids, so, either important or… just another one. I’m passionate about story telling and wild imaginations. Big lover of anything thrilling. I like to think I’m adventurous but I feel those days may be gone for me. Not quite religious but believe in forces beyond scientific knowledge (Anatomy of the universe is too precise). Oh and I’ve written quite a lot but only just published one book. So, Quebec here I come.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is titled “10 Poems in a Short: Lonely Birds”. It is the first in a limited series that I’m very excited about. It was inspired by many random things to be honest, most of which came while I was travelling round my country; Nigeria, in 2017.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I don’t think my writing habit is unusual. It’s quite technical really. What I do when I’m in writing mode is to create a schedule and planner for a period between 25-60 days. I set aside a 2-hour window for everyday, then I go on different social media. Whatever word, or image, or video I come across; first, sets the tone for what I’m going to write within the 2 hour frame of that day. When I’ve expended the period set, I pick the best writings and create a story around them. It’s more technical than artistic, I think.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
My influences come from various authors, styles and techniques, so it will be hard to pick. I’m influenced stylistically by William Shakespeare, The book “Sphinx” by Robin Cook, was one of my early influences. “Flipped” by Wendelin Van Draanen is a huge influence too, stylistically. Chinua Achebe, Wole Soyinka, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Athol Fugard (especially for “Tsotsi”), to name a few.
What are you working on now?
I’m finishing up on the second part of “10 Poems in a Short”, title will be published soon. Also working on the final chapter of a Sci-Fi short story. It’s quite exciting too!
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Best method? Spread your words as far and wide as possible. I believe everyone has a beautiful story to share, so share yours at every given opportunity.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Well, I’m relatively a new author myself. So if I were to give myself some advice, it would go like “the first few chapters are probably crap, so, keep writing till it makes sense. It will take time.”
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
“If you ever plan on having kids, the best gift you can give them is a reputable surname, after a huge trust fund.” -Name redacted-
What are you reading now?
Well, I just bought a MIDI Keyboard so I’m definitely reading the manual. Other than that, nothing.
What’s next for you as a writer?
For now, reaching a bigger audience is the goal. If a thousand people get to read my book, that’ll be fantastic!
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?
Twelfth Night, Purple Hibiscus, 10 Poems in a Short (Its that good), a random book I’ve never heard of.
Author Websites and Profiles
Laolu Otiko Amazon Profile
Laolu Otiko’s Social Media Links
Twitter Account