Interview With Author Rachel Griffin
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Rachel "Shy Wolf" Griffin, born and raised in Cleveland, OH, began her poetry writing journey at the age of thirteen. Starting with that, she soon branched into poetry reading and story writing in high school. Until Rachel entered into adulthood, a career in writing in general wasn't an additional option. Shy Wolf only wanted to be a Photographer. That decision to do both brought on a lot of moments of doubt. Griffin conquered those moments with determination and blocking out negative thoughts.
Thus far, I have written 3 books. My first is Khyrus: Deity of Virtue and Strength. It is a Children's Fantasy novel. I wrote that as a way to show children that they, too, have the strength to stand up for what's just. They are fully capable of gaining the knowledge and skills necessary to change the world. My second is Who Iz You? That is my autobiography. I go into more detail about my life thus far. How it began and the paths I have taken that led me here. My third is Traumas Left Behind: Heartbreak. This is my poetry anthology that is set to re-release New Year's Day 2023. A compilation of poems that talk about the hardships I experienced in previous relationships. Currently working on my fourth, Deja Soul.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
"Who Iz You?" is my latest book. I was inspired to write it because I wish to be genuine about who I am. Be completely honest about my story and journey. Not always use fictional characters and scenarios to get the message across. Something that is not just geared towards children. I have asked myself "Who am I?" multiple times. Writing this book has gotten me closer to the answers I search for.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I will do a small outline of what I want to write about (including characters, locations, etc.). Then I would write the entire novel beginning to end. Lastly, I proofread in sections, highlighting where I stopped prior. Though most chapters are shorter than others, I will still take months to proofread but type the story fairly quickly. I like getting my ideas down before I forget them. If I'm away from my laptop, I'll jot something in my calendar to remind me later.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Maya Angelou has inspired me. She uses her powerful voice for her art and to speak on things she feels strongly about. Ms. Angelou was never afraid to say what was on her mind, and in a well thought out way. Maya was not afraid to stand up for herself when disrespected, intentional or otherwise. Her voice was powerful, and so is mine.
What are you working on now?
Currently proofreading my Fantasy novel Deja Soul. I've written and released the book before, but am doing a re-release in June 2023. There are some changes to how Deja's story is being told that needs to be made. This way, readers will be able to better understand Soul's journey and her struggles.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Currently promoting and selling my books on Amazon, which is linked through my website. Will also be selling them via OEP Sundries starting next year.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Don't get discouraged if your first book doesn't do as well as expected. Don't allow your head to get too big if your first book does become successful. Stay humble and focused no matter which side of that fence you're on. That'll get you so much farther in your career and life.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Stay true to who you are. Let nothing and no one change you.
What are you reading now?
I'm currently re-reading "Secret Life of Bees" by Sue Monk Kidd.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Continue to add to my recently debuted news series P&C: On the Streets. There, I meet with various business owners, authors, entrepreneurs, etc. We talk about their beginnings, inspirations, goals and what they accomplish with their business. We get to know why they chose their career/field and learn some of the difficulties they've faced.
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?
A survival guide, a book on how to build a boat, a travel guide with a map and a book with language translations.
Author Websites and Profiles
Rachel Griffin’s Social Media Links