Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Hello everyone! My name is Tamika or Mika as friends and family call me. I’ve written 3 books but have only published one, so far. I’m a writer, Etsy Shop owner, and certified Social Worker. In my free time, I enjoy watching films, listening to music, going on road trips, trying new restaurants, learning about Astrology, spending time with my three kitties, and planning a future with my boyfriend.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is called Crying, Learning, and Laughing: Why Students Visit the Teen Center. It was inspired by my time as a high school case manager working for a School-based Youth Services Program.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I write whenever I get the urge. However, as I’ve grown older, I try to write more during the daytime hours. If I’m writing something personal then I listen to music from that particular era or time in my life. It helps to trigger memories. If what I’m writing isn’t personal then I stick with instrumental and classical music so the lyrics don’t distract me.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I love Joanna Penn. Her non-fiction books are well-written, informative, and interesting.
But I’ve read so many fiction novels that it would take me forever to name all my favorites. I am a HUGE Harry Potter/J.K. Rowling fan though.
What are you working on now?
My upcoming release in May of 2021 is a book about the Law of Attraction.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’m still somewhat of an author “newbie” so I’m trying different platforms to see how they work for me. I hope Awesome Gang works out as well as I’ve read it does.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Yes! Just write! Stop making excuses or allowing your fear to stop you. Write and keep writing. Don’t be afraid that you aren’t a good writer.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
I’ve heard so much good advice over the years. Right now I watch Ralph Smart on YouTube. He drops truth bombs and wisdom in every video. One of my favorite quotes goes something like this “You didn’t come here to be perfect. You came here, to tell the truth.” I might have mucked it up but you get the gist.
What are you reading now?
I read articles and memes every day. I read Peyton Place over the summer. It made me love the movie even though much of it was censored in the film. I also have the Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl, Outliers The Story of Success, and Black Fortunes The Story of Six African Americans Who Survived Slavery and Became Millionaires on deck for when I get some time.
What’s next for you as a writer?
I’d like to expand my freelance writing business. I am available for blog posts and articles. But writing and publishing more books is my overall goal as a writer. In fact, I will be outlining another book once my current draft is off to the editor.
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?
Pride and Prejudice
Catcher in the Rye
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
Peyton Place (because it was really good)
Author Websites and Profiles
Tamika M Murray Website
Tamika M Murray Amazon Profile
Tamika M Murray’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Twitter Account