What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Bars for Days?
For years, people had been telling me I needed to document my life. I have just had a lot of amazing experiences and had a lot of run-ins with interesting people. When I returned to finish my degree at the University of Miami, I was excelling in my writing classes, and one of my professors encouraged me to expand my assignments into an all out book.
If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Bars for Days, what would they be?
Well, the story itself comes with a soundtrack. There is a full album that is being released alongside this book. One song I’d recommend listening to would be Sky City, by Mic Nickels. This one really encompasses the vibe of the book. I’d also say Travellin Man, by Mos Def, and New York State of Mind, by Nas would be fitting for the motif.
What’s your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?
I love reading dystopian sci-fi; 1984, Brave New World, Fahrenheit 451, Cat’s Cradle etc. I haven’t written anything like this yet, but I am planning to delve into fiction next, and most likely the story will fall into this vein.
What books are on your TBR pile right now?
Be Water My Friend, by Shannon Lee. Magicians of the Gods, by Graham Hancock. Griot by Jeremy Pelt. Lost Continent of Mu, by James Churchward.
What scene in your book was your favorite to write?
There were a lot of scenes that I really enjoyed writing. Visiting Peru to go to Machu Picchu was a special experience. Hanging out with Tracy Morgan for a weekend was pretty wild too. I also enjoyed revisiting my daughter being born during the eclipse of 2017. It was fun going back to these moments and bringing them to life for the audience.
Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)
I like to listen to instrumental music on YouTube while I write. Mostly loft study beats, or heavy synth concentration music in strange frequencies.
Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?
You can’t control anything in life, except outlook.
If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?
That life is short. Try to do your best to enjoy every moment.
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