Where are you from?
I was born in Saint Petersburg, Florida. I’ve lived in various cities
in Florida, as well as, Georgia, California, Illinois, and Virginia.
How do your family and/or friends feel about your book or writing
venture in general?
They are all very supportive and truly excited! I’m so blessed to have
them in my life. They keep me in their prayers. That’s always a good
thing.
What inspired you to pen your first novel?
When I first sat down to write “Emerging…Free” (released Nov. 2004),
all I knew was that I wanted to write something that I would want the
read---something that would have the reader look at an idea in a
different way. Also, I wanted to write a book where the story is
relatable, a story that crossed gender, age, sex, socio-economic, and
racial lines. I chose to write a story surrounding the issue of
“parental abandonment” because it is an issue that a lot of our youth
face either directly or indirectly. It is also an issue that does not
automatically resolve itself when one becomes an adult.
When did you first know you wanted to write books?
During my last year in law school, I believe God gave me the vision to
write books.
When did you first consider yourself a Christian writer?
Interestingly, it was after I completed writing
“Emerging…Free”---during my editing stage. That was when I saw and
accepted the “big picture” for my words. That’s when I first
considered myself a Christian writer.
Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp?
“Emerging…Free” promotes the theme of “forgiveness”. It is my hope
that as readers read “Emerging…Free”, that they will think about this
theme and embrace it.
How much of the novel is realistic?
“Emerging…Free” examines issues surrounding parental abandonment. It
is realistically written because I want readers to relate to the
characters. However, “Emerging…Free” is not my life story or the life
story of anyone I know.
Name one entity that supported you outside of family members.
God…for sure.
How do you feel overall about self-publishing? I love it. (I knew one day I would work for myself.)
What do you feel is one major benefit to self-publishing your book?
One major benefit to me self-publishing my book is that it has allowed
me to learn the literary business. Knowledge is power and I am
grateful for this experience.
Would you encourage or mentor someone to become self-published?
Most definitely!
Tell us your latest news? What are your current projects?
I am currently writing my second novel. I’m very excited about it.
Also, I’m promoting “Emerging…Free” and securing book
appearance/signing events.
Do you see writing as a long-or-short-term career?
Long-term, for sure!
Is there anything additional you would like to share with your
readers?
“Emerging…Free” will be available via all bookstores in the United
States and Canada. Also, it is available via my website:
www.keishabell.com.
Check it out and please help to spread the word.
