Moving Mountains with Sasha - Storytelling Flashbacks 🎧

 

Credit: Moving Mountains with Sasha

Storytelling Flashbacks By Authors and Writers -  Enjoy! 

🎧

Paul Donsbach, Co-Author of The Bronze Scroll

Linwood Jackson Jr., Author of Growth

Kelly Mitchell, Author of Musing Around LV

Alexis and Justin Black, Author of Redefining Normal

James Aiello, Author of Christina Powers American Goddess

The Latest Books in Book Stores! #Spring

 

Credit: Sasha Laghonh | Books, Barnes & Noble

Credit: Sasha Laghonh | Books, Barnes & Noble

Credit: Sasha Laghonh | Books, Barnes & Noble

 

Credit: Sasha Laghonh | Books, Barnes & Noble

Get The Picture By Bianca Bosker

Credit: Get The Picture, Bianca Bosker

Overview

An award-winning journalist obsessed with obsession, Bianca Bosker’s existence was upended when she wandered into the art world—and couldn’t look away. Intrigued by artists who hyperventilate around their favorite colors and art fiends who max out credit cards to show hunks of metal they think can change the world, Bosker grew fixated on understanding why art matters and how she—or any of us—could engage with it more deeply.  In Get the Picture, Bosker throws herself into the nerve center of art and the people who live for it: gallerists, collectors, curators, and, of course, artists themselves—the kind who work multiple jobs to afford their studios while scrabbling to get eyes on their art. As she stretches canvases until her fingers blister, talks her way into A-list parties full of billionaire collectors, has her face sat on by a nearly-naked performance artist, and forces herself to stare at a single sculpture for hours on end while working as a museum security guard, she discovers not only the inner workings of the art-canonization machine but also a more expansive way of living. Credit: Get The Picture, Amazon; Bianca Bosker.

Style My Soul Welcomes Writers and Authors

 

 

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Joseph M. Lenard Pens TERROR STRIKES

 

Credit: Joseph M. Lenard

Joseph, Welcome to Authors by Sasha! As a prolific political blogger and vlogger, what serves as the inspiration for writing the book TERROR STRIKES?

Well, I actually began writing this book back in 2006, and then with the COVID hysteria all other News practically stopped being reporting, including Terrorism, so last year I felt it important to finish and get out as many who have said NEVER FORGET have indeed seemed to have forgotten. Just hoping Terrorism won’t strike you, is not a strategy!

The book's genre is fiction and non-fiction. How were you able to strike a balance between integrating historical facts with fictional elements to convey the book's message which focuses on life (and living) and those (foreign & domestic) that would deprive someone of that Life, Liberty and Happiness? 

Yes, I certainly did not want to sit down to write a dry, almost history book, like a manuscript. I thought it would be well received if I blended fact and fiction.

The words terror and terrorism are perceived differently by civilians in society. Some people view terrorism from an ideological perspective while others perceive it from an emotional stance. Based on your life experiences and understanding, how do you define terrorism?  

Usually, Terrorism or Terrorists, to me, is mainly reserved for those who are un-uniformed combatants that often target Citizen targets. And it is important to point out that this book has many sub-themes…

SubThemes in the book:

Caring about one's neighbors (Love over Hate)

Politics (it is part of their targeting us)

Suicide prevention (help save a Life)

Comic Relief (a chapter name! Chapters: Link)

PTSD (Flashback chapter)

Survivors Guilt (9/11 chapter)

Suicide prevention

Love Vs Fake Hate (a chapter name! Chapters: Link)

HELL (no, not that one, HELL MICHIGAN (Chapters: Link))

Paying it forward - Link

Many related books and movies referenced in my book (terrorism, bias, more)

Credit: Joseph M Lenard

TERROR STRIKES presents a story within a story, Terror Tracks, a book being developed by Marten which weaves a tale of factual and fictional portrayal of a hypothetical scenario of a soon to take place on Americans in the heartland to send a message that no one is safe from the actions of global fundamentalists. Why does Marten rationalize to name his book Terror Tracks? Does the track, literal or metaphorical, of terror ever end under any circumstances?  

Yes, TERRORIST TRACKS is the book within the book and is a double-play on terms (and there several other duality word-plays in the book). Both tracking down Terrorists and in that many Terror Strikes are on passenger rail, that run on Tracks, Terrorists favorite targets. But being a former Information Technology guy, and knowing no-one under the age of 40 knows life w/o the internet and are familiar with what a blog is and so I provide Marten’s blog on 9/11 in the book as part of his reviewing that fateful day.

As a theist hosting interest in psychology, how do you interpret the behaviors and scare tactics that fundamentalists project onto the global citizens? 

Fear is a major motivator of probably a majority of society. And as Franklin said ‘those looking to forsake freedoms for a sense of security deserve neither.’ And more-so, those with Children are most vulnerable to manipulation based on their fear(s) in order to control them, often foolishly believing that if they just appease their enemies they will want to coexist. It is clear the GIJIA have zero desire to coexist, unless you anoint them your Master and you their Slaves.

There's a chapter dedicated to Al Aldieaya that translates to propaganda/marketing. How do institutions from the global powers to fundamentalist groups leverage propaganda and marketing to achieve their desired goals?

It mainly goes back to George Orwell and the false “Ministry of Truth'' to control the masses. And the book not only addresses propaganda abroad, but that of many main-stream-media outlets that try to pretend to be impartial and just reporting facts, but instead mostly now peddle spin to advance their political agenda.

Joseph, Global Islamic Jihad Interim Army (GIJIA) is referenced in TERROR STRIKES. What type of parallels exists between GIJIA and the NAZIs? Are there any precautionary measures society can exercise to contain the GIJIA population's influence on the global stage? 

I coined the term GIJIA, like we used NAZI during World War 2 for the National Socialist Deutchsland Abeiter Party, which stands for Global Islamic Jihadists Interim Army. And both fascist. The GIJIA want a fascistic global caliphate where they hold power over all to dictate every aspect of our lives.

Based on your writing experiences that explore political ideologies and global issues impacting citizens, how can individuals pursue a quality of life without becoming enslaved by the presence of terrorism?

We cannot let our fears get the best of us, so we must continue to go about our own personal pursuits, but still being mindful and alert to our surroundings. As Theresa, in the book, finally realizes that she was far more and ostrich in these regards than the mama-bear she needed for her daughter. Burying one’s head in-between the train tracks will not prevent itself from being run over by the train coming.

Credit: Terror Strikes, Joseph M. Lenard

TERROR STRIKES caters to an inclusive audience where as the book's story represents views from a variety of political, religious and culture viewpoints, to name a few. Were there any ideologies / factors left out when crafting the story for the sake of simplicity, or other reasons?

Yes, the book goes beyond just those foreign to us that want to kill Americans, but that too of those domestic. I did stick with the three main Religions, while yes they want to kill anyone that will not bow to their dictates including any and all other faiths, but they mostly focus on Christians and Jews.

How is humor applied as a source of comic relief in the book writing process?  What type of humor do you enjoy in your personal life? 

I can never pass on an opportunity for a bad pun. Life is indeed so serious these days, but we need to keep a sense of humor and laugh, even at ourselves, at times. If we don’t laugh occasionally we’ll be crying all the time.

The story references a few locations (i.e. Spain, UK, Canada). Were these locations chosen because of their history with terrorism, or because they hold a special meaning in your life?

Good question, and the answer is BOTH! Being in the Detroit area we are very intertwined with our neighbors to our north, and when I was younger I spent a good degree of vacation opportunities north of Toronto. But, too, yes, each location is important to understanding the threats we must always be on alert for.

As a writer, Joseph, how have your views and writing style evolved from the early days of blogging?  

It actually hasn’t changed me at all, as to my views. And my writing-style has always been “different” and I push on the “norms” and take great enjoyment in avoiding the classic “formula” of book writing. Which is why I am about 99.9% certain I am the first to constitute the notion of not only the book within a book but blog within the book as a story delivery method.

When you're not writing or thinking about global affairs, what activities do you like to engage in?

Sports. As a former amateur hockey player, I always watch as many NHL games as I can.

You're a proud Michigan native with roots tracing back a few decades.  

What do you believe Michigan does so well when serving its citizens unlike other states?  

Do you have any activity recommendations for first time visitors experiencing Michigan? 

Well there is the obvious with Michigan bordering three of the Great Lakes, and beyond that the many small lakes we have across the State, great for visitors recreation. But as far as them “serving” I think Michigan is as bad if not worse than some others, though I am very happy and remain a resident of Wyandotte which has had its own Power and Water company operations which does serve us well, usually when government gets involved in anything it gets more expensive and inept, but these services have stayed fiscally responsible and we save money on the costs of those things over other communities.

Is there a life mantra you live by? How has it improved your emotional, mental and spiritual development?

“Remember: Things can always be better, but they can often be worse!” And while I share that with everyone, it sure doesn’t prevent me from complaining when things could most certainly be on the better side of things. That and humor. It is important to laugh and help others laugh for our mental well-being.

Joseph, you're a writer that has penned poems and music aside from blogs and a book. Are any of these writing experiences more therapeutic than the other? Why? 

They are all very helpful and great for mental-health by providing a sense of accomplishment when one comes together. Sadly, though, I have not picked up a Guitar in about two decades, because today it is so much easier to market music digitally through the internet these days and I’m missing out.

What new projects do you have unfolding on the horizon? 

For now it is all about promoting TERROR STRIKES, and some time going forward I will likely begin dedicating time to my next book.

Please share with audiences how they can support your work. 

I sure hope, of course, first-and-foremost will consider picking up a copy of TERROR STRIKES at any book-store or online. If online, while you’re there, stop by my online articles/blogs location of http://tinyurl.com/JLDArticles.

Writer Anita S. Roy on Tragedy & New Beginnings

Credit: KreativeCircle.com | Anita S. Roy

Anita, Welcome to Authors by Sasha! You've achieved a successful career as a ghostwriter serving prominent names in the entertainment and business industries. When were you introduced to the craft of writing and how did it evolve into a career that has "nourished" (per your words) your family?

Thank you. I've been fortunate to develop a long career which has nurtured my curiosity, sustained a roof over my head, and has allowed me to expand my growing family. I was introduced to the craft of writing at the young age of four. I recall going to work with my father. He used to sell foreign carpets. He would frequent the shop showroom selling to people while in the back room I would keep myself busy by writing stories in the form of plays. Writing was a past time for me. It allowed my mind to wander off. As for my personal history, I was born in Mumbai, India. The first 10 years of my life were spent in Zimbabwe. Later my family moved to Morocco for better opportunities. This also put a strain on my parents' marriage due to moving around without a set destination. My mother opted to return to India for a brief span of time. My brothers and I joined our mother to spend time in Mumbai. My mother enrolled us to study classic literature and writing in two languages - Hindi and English. Those classes focused on creative writing, theater; et al. She encouraged us to find a passion we could develop as part of our cultural identity. Unfortunately, my studies were cut short at the age of 16. My mother discovered she had leukemia, an uninvited shock, when we were already financially strapped managing two homes. 

 Soon, as a family, we decided to join our father again in Morocco. My mother was able to find better care to help her condition. I resumed my studies by attending trade school. Majority of the classes stressed the importance of domestic arts and parenting. The trade school was split in two sub-schools educating young girls and college aged women. Domestic arts didn't pique my interest. I knew one day I was expected to get married. I resumed my education by studying domestic arts for three years. Marriage followed my studies. It was an arranged marriage, a practice still popular within my culture and family legacy. I spent the first 15 years of my marriage taking care of my husband, raising two beautiful kids; et al. My husband's unexpected death caught me off guard 17 years into our marriage. I went from a housewife wanting to discover her identity to mourning her husband's passing. 

Overnight I was faced with new challenges. How was I supposed to support my children? I started working part time jobs from being a bookkeeper to sewing outfits for locals in the community. My manager at the bookkeeping job was aware of my affinity for writing. He and his wife set me up with a writing tutor to help me develop skills that would later help me secure white collar jobs in office settings. I started writing on the side as a passion and over a span of four years I started acquiring a following. This is before the internet took center stage. There was a local newspaper hosting a competition crediting fiction writers. The winner would receive 2500 dirham. My neighbor convinced me to submit a piece. I received a call about three weeks later informing me that I had won. This brought my work into the limelight which spurred my soul into action. I was seeking local book shops for social engagements to connect with other writers and readers. My writing assignments came far and few in between until I was hired by a local newspaper in need of a weekly column. Majority of my paid assignments came through word of mouth and referrals. This is how I survived as a single mother for a long period of time.

Growing up in South Africa introduced you to many different cultures and lifestyles. How did your teenage experiences shape your view of the world?

Growing up in South Africa introduced me to different faces, smells, and STORYTELLING. South Africans love storytelling. I encourage people to study their history. It's rich, it' raw. It's made of dreams and emotions that go unmatched by other cultures. I grew up in a melting pot surrounded by multilingual citizens communicating their dreams to anyone on the street willing to listen. Most of my teenage years were spent in Africa. I met people from all walks of life that weren't socially common back in Mumbai. Some of these friends were very progressive in their lifestyle choices. Some were opinionated towards their view of the world. Nothing was off the table with them. Not sex, not drugs, nothing. They could hold their own when debating about social issues and global politics. I wasn't groomed to have a voice to speak on topics which were once perceived controversial. I came from a simple home. My social outlet for any stimulating conversation took place within the four corners of my parents' home. I'm grateful for my South African friends introducing me to a part of life I would otherwise not known. Slowly I was immersed in getting to know people which helped me overcome my social handicap (shyness). Ghostwriters are anonymous when writing. Whether you're a ghost writer or not, you're writing on a piece of paper, you're typing your story line... you're not necessarily in front of an audience. There's a different type of stage fright ghostwriters face time to time.

As a military wife, you've had the privilege of traveling the world with your husband and children. How did you meet your husband? What role did he play in resurrecting your love for writing?

Military life treated my family well! I traveled the world during the first 10 years of my marriage. My husband Rishi and I decided we would start a family sooner than later because military life can be unpredictable. Both of our children were born in foreign countries. Our oldest son was born in Italy. Our younger daughter was born in Indonesia. I met Rishi initially through family friends. Rishi was visiting from abroad to celebrate our cultural holiday, Holi, with his parents. We crossed paths once to exchange pleasantries. A year later when the marriage proposal came, I knew marriage was the next step in my life chapter. Nine months later, we celebrated an arranged marriage. Fortunately our personalities and family values meshed well to build a strong foundation for our children. I couldn't be prouder of calling him my husband, my best friend. It was his passing which triggered a series of events leading me to seek a livelihood to keep a roof over our heads. My husband took pride in being a breadwinner, now I was left to figure out how to become the breadwinner. His absence left me with the burden of raising two children without a father figure. Emotional support from others was sufficient to keep us afloat as I discovered new means of earning an income to support a family of three. My children transitioned from the daily comforts of military life to living in a one bedroom apartment with limited amenities to address basic needs. 

Life changed overnight for our family. We lived with these limitations for about five months until I secured part-time day jobs which offered me freedom to work when my children were at school. Night jobs weren't an option until my children were self sufficient without needing to rely on me as much. Writing became a healthy outlet for me in the evenings. Before writing turned into an income stream, I started journaling at night. I kept a journal to communicate with my deceased husband; letting him know how the day went. what happened in our children's lives; what was happening in the world. On rare occasions, I would open the journal at night just to cry over those blank sheets of paper wishing Rishi were still alive. My children and I learned how to thrive in his absence. Writing took a life form after my husband passed away. Putting my thoughts into words stirred a connection letting me speak to him through writing. It was later in time I began writing for strangers needing someone to translate their thoughts into words.

Pursuing a career in writing can be challenging because many manuscript submissions are overlooked in the publishing industry. The acceptance rate is limiting that people explore self-publishing for many reasons. You've had the pleasure of working with prominent publishing houses globally over the past 25 years. What have you learned about the pitching process?

I've submitted over fifty four manuscripts since I started writing full time back in 1998. It is a challenging industry to break into but writers need to remain determined to share their message. If your message is powerful, make sure to publish it in some form. Not every message requires a publisher; there are many publishing outlets available. There are no guarantees for acceptance. There are no fixed time frames for receiving feedback. Some publishing houses can take years to read your script. Don't wait on feedback in order to proceed to your next assignment. The first few rejections definitely made me question whether I should continue on my writing journey. I encourage everyone to submit their manuscript. Read the directions on each publisher's page. Each publishing company has different objectives to meet. Not all publishing houses represent all genres. Always Check. Are they looking for nonfiction, fiction, fantasy? They have plenty to read. Remain open to feedback. The feedback cycle in writing is never ending.

Anita, what have you learned about rejection in your career path?

Rejection is a part of life. The sooner you grasp it, the better it is for everyone including yourself. Rejection exists in every corner of life. It only means you're going in the wrong direction. You need to find a new course of action. Some of my biggest rejections forced me to focus better. Rejection makes us reflect whether our actions have a greater purpose.

Some writers take pride in being self-taught professionals. What are your thoughts on how writing should be taught?

I am partially a self taught professional due to gaps in my education while growing up. Attending trade school prepared me to become a homemaker, not a writer. I believe a writing curriculum should be mandatory in all specialized studies. Writing is an essential tool that helps us express ourselves. Words breathe life into ideas. It helps art come to life. Anything is possible with writing.

Online writing communities exist to connect writers. It's a hub for networking and permitting others to provide feedback. Is there any advice to offer new writers who join these valued platforms?

New writers should go out, learn, and listen to people discuss their writing practices.

My guidance is simple - writers become better writers through practice, practice, practice…

Become vulnerable in your writing. Your words reveal a story you’re figuring out along the way. Let those words direct your course. Learn to receive and offer feedback. 

It took a while for me to build trust in these communities. Giving feedback takes practice.

What advice can you offer writers when it comes to editing their work?

Editing is part of the writing process. If you don't like to edit then find a good editor. Make sure the editor understands your objective for writing a specific piece.

What guidance do you have for readers who have constructive criticism to share with the authors?

Constructive feedback exists in most areas of life. Ask and you shall receive. When providing feedback, make sure to treat the author as you would like to be treated when receiving feedback. You are not only critiquing words, you are critiquing a message that belongs to an owner. It's packaged with care. Handle it with care.

Anita, what themes do you feel most comfortable writing? What theme have you conquered but will not entertain again? Why?

Majority of my work focuses on fiction and social culture. Businesses and individual freelance artists hire me to help develop their growing portfolio of work. I will not entertain any health or technical related topics. It falls outside of my mental and preferential capacity. Write on topics that you enjoy unless you're open to investigative journalism.

In your opinion, is it easier for you to write as a ghostwriter, or would you rather have your name situated alongside some of the famous names you've written for?

I’m indifferent to whether my name will show up on the cover or credits. Few writers credit my pen name because they feel a duty to share the limelight. 

What two writing tips can you offer to new and existing writers in the market?

Practice. Find a time that resonates with you and find ways to write, write, write. This helps writers expand their mind and discover their style of writing. Next, consider writing on different genres to keep yourself employable in the market. Flexibility with your craft can take you far. There are many different forms of writing, from blogging to articles to magazines, to newspapers, websites, journals. Find an outlet that works for you and continue developing yourself as a writer.

All writers can benefit from taking a mental break. Anita, how do you recharge to ensure your mind is fluid when working on concurrent projects in your writing pipeline?

I love gardening. Presently I’m making space to welcome my seventh pet to join two dogs, a cat, a parrot, a hamster and a rabbit. I love spending time with my children and my grandchildren. There's plenty of loving noises that compete for my attention when I'm away from my writing.

Please share how audiences can connect with you.

Messages and inquiries can be sent to indwritersroy(at)gmail(dot)com.

The Power of Writing

 

Learn more about Wally Lamb here.

Explore his book collection.

Opportunities to Donate Books

Dear Book Lovers,

There are multiple ways to get involved in sharing your love of reading and paying it forward. With nonprofits and institutions in need of used and new books, below are a few avenues to consider for donating books. 

Better Word Books - Based out of Mishawaka, Indiana, this entity provides drop boxes that collect book donations primarily along the East Coast, Mid West and part of Southern United States. Interested members are welcome to look up their closest donation box here.

Books Through Bars - Headquartered out of West Philadelphia, this nonprofit welcomes book donations that are forwarded to prisoners behind bars. Volunteers and donors make it possible for the prison population to have access to reading materials representing multiple genre that deliver educational, historical and entertainment value. This nonprofit has sustained its presence for 30 years and is going strong thanks to good Samaritans supporting this cause from within United States and beyond. Learn more how to get involved here.

Salvation Army - One of the greatest providers of social aid, this nonprofit welcomes donations from books to household items that extend a second chance to individuals starting all over. Donations are put to good use through items shared with domestic, social and professional groups in need of resources. Find a location closest to you, or schedule a pick up for your donation here. 

Reader to Reader, Inc. - Supporting global literacy in action, this group's mission is to support the distribution of books in low income areas and making book donations available for state wide public libraries. Learn more about this program here.

Local Libraries - Get the local community involved through hosting events that raise monetary resources and book donations to support public libraries that make accessible a broad genre of reading materials available to students and local residents. Find a library near you.

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Meet Casey Bell, Author & Fashion Designer

Credit: Casey Bell

Hi Casey! Nice to meet you. Please introduce yourself and share with the audiences how you evolved into becoming a well respected author. Did you know writing was your gift since childhood?

Thank you. I am a writer of books, plays, films, poems and songs. I have been writing since the age of six and never stopped writing. I always wrote for the fun of it and to share insight, stories, and ideas. I did not realize until after college that I was a “writer.” Definitely after doing a play reading of a play I wrote in 2008, after the reaction of the audience, and positive feedback, I knew then I was a “writer.”

You've authored at least 32 pieces of work from children's books to plays. Does life imitate art, or does art imitate life in your professional endeavors? 

​

Every piece of work has its own story. Most of my books, plays have a piece of me or someone I know. None of my writings are completely based on my life (except my memoir), but there is always some truth to everything I write. I would say that most of everything I write is 20% non-fiction, 30% exaggerated non-fiction, and 50% fiction.

In your book "Cry", you're able to infuse comedy into drama. As an author, how are you able to sensibly strike a balance with integrating comedy in such works without compromising the integrity of the story remaining drama? What advice do you have for new authors trying to merge such two genres into a respectable piece of work like "Cry"?

​

As weird as it sounds all of my drama pieces start out as comedy. As much as I enjoy silly comedy, I realize in this world the way it is, we need more meaningful entertainment with a lasting message that will cause change. So, once I start a comedy piece, I always ask myself what is the purpose or message of this work. Once I do that the drama just writes itself. I can’t say I have any advice for authors. I believe either you have that gift to do both or you don’t. And if you don’t then stick with your unique gift.

What were the critical lessons you learned as an author following the release of your first book? In hindsight, how have you grown as a person given you've penned multiple genres of work over the past fifteen years?

​

The first lesson I learned was invest money on an editor. No matter how many times you edit your own work, there will always be something you miss. Also, I learned to educate myself on marketing and advertising. As much as you think everyone you know is going to support you, at the end of the day, if you are selling what they don’t want, it doesn’t matter how much they love you, they will not support. I had to find my audience, my customers, the readers, and market it to them. I also learned it takes bravery to be unique. Every professional wants you to be a carbon copy and wants you to fit in a template, but you have to learn to say true to your fingerprints. I’ve learned to be as unique as my fingerprints. I have grown in a sense that I am now proactive in getting my messages out there as opposed in the beginning waiting for someone to find me.

What was the best piece of writing guidance you received when embarking upon your career?

Is the latter advice still relevant today?

​

Get an editor. Yes, it still is.

Which genres of writing do you find to be more challenging? Why so? Is there a particular piece of your writings that you hold dear because it demanded you to grow in the process of writing?

​

Children’s books are always challenging for me because I have to find ways to write simply so it can be understood, which is not always easy when you are used to writing for adults. It is also challenging because I illustrate my own books, which is not always fun. The piece I hold dear is “Essays From Dysfunctional Families: Literary Betrayal,” because it is a unique book and the first of its kind (I think). It is two books in one. The first book, “Essays From Dysfunctional Families,” is a fictional book written by a fictional author, Dean K. Brent. The fictional book is ten essays from Americans discussing their dysfunctional childhoods. The fictional author, Dean K. Brent, used his family and friends’ real-life stories to write the book. The second half of the book, “Literary Betrayal,” is the author’s family and friends’ negative reaction to his book. I actually had difficulty copywriting it, because the US Copywrite Office thought Dean K. Brent was a real person and wanted to know if I had his permission to copyright the book.

In your latest work, "To College or Not to College", what inspired you to write about a dilemma that is more relevant today as parents and students contemplate the significance of secondary education? Please share a valuable insight from this piece of work.

​

After college I was frustrated that high school did not prepare for college. I thought that there were some vital information school should have taught prior to me going. So, I decided to write a book sharing my mistakes. In writing the book I realized college is not for everyone (not to mention college didn’t always exist), so I decided to write a second section sharing information for those who don’t want to go to college. Two insights I will share one from each section. (First section: To College) In research I found out that there are seven tuition-free colleges in USA. You either pay very little or you pay nothing. Most parents or students do not know that. In the second section: Not to College, I share about Continuing/Adult Education. Most high schools, Vo-techs, and colleges offer classes during the evening for certain professions. They basically teach the same things as college and offer certificate programs in areas such as medical, auto mechanics, computer tech, and many more. The classes are less expensive and take less time to complete and you are able to work in the same fields as your college counterparts.

You're also a fashion designer. How do you describe your day to day fashion sense? What inspired you to infuse your creativity through the means of fashion? In your opinion, is it easier to design or write?

The fashion designer was not planned. I never intended it. I was my church’s graphic designer for a long time. I created the flyers, brochures, business cards, etc. In 2007 I decided to use those skills to open an online store where I created shirts, bumper stickers, trucker hats, and other items as such. In 2010 I believe it was I decided to use my graphic design skills to create art, like the one’s painters create. Somehow someone found my artwork and asked me to join their online store and create designs for women clothing. I originally thought, no, but I then realized it was an opportunity, so I went ahead and opened my own page. For me it is easier and more fun (sorry writing) to design.

Are there any parallels that resonate with being a fashion designer as well as a storyteller before the audiences?

​

The only thing that is similar is I sometimes am influenced or inspired to create (either writing or designing) through watching or experiencing life (people).

Are there specific writers and mentors that you admire in your life? What have they taught you through living their best life?

After finding out Maya Angelo was a professional dancer before she was an author, it taught me I do not have to stick to one gift. I can, indeed, share them all, when I see fit.

Please share with audiences with how they can support you and your work.

All my books, plays, art, fashion, and social media can be found on one website: http://www.caseysamuelbell.com