Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am a Nigerian-American writer, raised in Los Angeles and currently living in Seattle Washington. My first book of poetry ‘wash between your toes’ was selected as a semifinalist for the Sundress competition.
I love deep connections, hot water w/ lemon, and the quiet hum of every day life. I am always searching for music and words that shift her heart and feet. Some days, I practice yoga, some days I use my business school degree, most days- I’m just trying my best to be human.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
wash between your toes is a book of poetry love letters I wrote as an ode to my college self. This tender poetry collection a celebration of the electric breathtaking power embedded in my nuanced experiences as a Black immigrant woman living in America.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Lately, my writing takes the form of love letters to my past selves. I have been keeping a journal practice regularly for the past 10 years so I often start by reading past entries and writing a response to that version of myself. What did she need to hear? What would move her? What do I know now that would give her permission to breathe and be?
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I love African fiction by women writers. Their stories are where I feel most at home. I’ve enjoyed the works of Imbolo Mbue, Chimamanda Adichie, Buchi’s Emeta. These women empower me to show up exactly as I am into the page. To dig out the parts I think to hide and celebrate them loudly,
What are you working on now?
I am writing an anthology-style nonfiction book that encourages readers to shift societal and personal expectations by recognizing the abundance and peace in their current lives. By exploring the concept of “enough” and its impact on well-being, the book aims to help individuals cultivate balance and contentment in all aspects of our lives.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Blurb.com, friends sharing and creating my own book ambassadors
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Even on your worst days when you don’t write a single word, you are still a writer.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Your journey is your own
What are you reading now?
‘This Could Be Us’ by Kennedy Ryan
What’s next for you as a writer?
I want to expand my scope of what is possible as I write my second book. I want to bend the rules of creativity and combine writing with photography, documentary videos and other mediums. I want to tell stories that move humanity.
What is your favorite book of all time?
‘House on Mango Street’ by Sandra Cisneros
Author Websites and Profiles
Teni Ayo-Ariyo Website
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