Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Well, I grew up on the south side of Chicago in a gang and drug infested area called the Robert Taylor Projects. Wanting to do more and be different, I became the first of my mother’s children to graduate college. I have written over five books and dozens of short stories. I’m currently pursuing my Creative Writing MFA.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is “Her Daughter’s Empty Casket,” inspired by the missing pregnant Post Office carrier named Kierra Coles, who has been missing since October 2018.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I usually write the most in the morning between 5 and 8 a.m. With an endless supply of coffee, it’s sort of my morning ritual.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I have been influenced by Langston Hughes and Octavia Butler and the books “Native Son” and “Parable of the Sower.”
What are you working on now?
Currently, I’m working on a book about a young earthling teen enslaved on another planet.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I use my Facebook page and Facebook ads to do most of my promotion, and this method tends to work magic.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Write. Put words on the page. Even when it feels like you have nothing to say or you feel like you’re talking to yourself, write.
Also, don’t “find” time for writing. make time for writing, or you’ll be bogged down by procrastination.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
The best advice I have ever heard was, put words on the page and don’t worry about grammar in the beginning.
What are you reading now?
I’m currently reading “The Fifth Season.”
What’s next for you as a writer?
Next, I will finish my master’s degree and hopefully polish my manuscripts well enough to get a book deal with one of the Big 5 Publishers.
What is your favorite book of all time?
My favorite book of all time is “Native Son.”
Author Websites and Profiles
Jermaine Reed Website
Jermaine Reed Amazon Profile
Jermaine Reed’s Social Media Links
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account