Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I recently self-published my first book. It is a creative nonfiction narrative about the loss of my son and associated lessons and insights. And yet, it’s not about death at all, but rather life: transcending these anxious times we live in and the simplicity of happiness. I’m a much happier person today than when I first started writing.
I’m a mom first. I have six kids (including my son in Heaven), and I live in New Rochelle, NY. Professionally, my expertise is in youth and family engagement especially and I’ve presented to thousands in workshops and at state and national conferences. I’ve worked with young adults to promote their self-determination and empowerment, helped families in the practical and emotional aspects of navigating disability service systems across the lifespan, and worked with professionals to build capacity for more inclusive communities.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
Title: “Not to Spoil the Ending… but everything is going to be ok
Subtitle: Insights from teenager in Heaven about happiness here
I think that when I first started writing, I was motivated mostly by a desperate mom’s need to preserve any piece of my son’s life I could cling to. When I started, I was just trying to get as much as I could into one place – memories kids had shared with me of his life, experiences after that emanated his presence, dreams, etc. I did not start with them, but what percolated out as I wrote were very powerful messages about peace and joy, and making this world more hopeful and heavenly. Most amazing was how simple and yet life changing it all was. I’m moved by how much of an impact it’s had on those who’ve read it. I’ve gotten letters and emails, and have literally been stopped on the street on numerous occasions by people I knew barely, or not at all, just to tell me how much reading it changed their life.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Nothing too odd, though while I was writing over the summer of 2020 I got regular massages to tease out the knots and aches that came with writing. There was a lot of emotion that accompanied the words from my head and heart onto the page. I have a busy life between my work and family, so I literally write snippets between meetings, kids appointments, and the space after the end of my work day and the beginning of dinner prep.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
In my heart and soul I’ve been most influenced by Brene Brown, Eckhart Tolle, and Fr. Richard Rohr. I think my book, even if it’s not fiction, is similar to “The Shack” by Wm. Paul Young.
What are you working on now?
Raising kids and keeping my head afloat. I also have a blog called “Finding Adamsworld: connecting to what’s real under the noise.” And I’m working on my second book, and of course still trying to get this one out there!
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Still trying to find it. Kindlepreneur has been a huge resource.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Nope. I’m too new to offer advice.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Be still and know that I am here.
What are you reading now?
“A New Earth” by Eckhart Tolle
What’s next for you as a writer?
Hopefully the “big time.”
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?
The Bible – no need to explain
The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle – to keep me grounded
The Brothers Karamazov by Fyodor Dostoevsky – to keep me occupied, it’s long and powerful
Not to Spoil the Ending… by me – to keep a piece of my family close
Author Websites and Profiles
Naomi Brickel Website
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