Our team had the pleasure of interviewing Devin as they launched, Fuzzy the Purple Sheep and Lanito la oveja morada at Barnes and Noble at the Virginia Beach Town Center. Devin is an activist, independent publisher, and budding children’s book author.
Hi Devin, What motivates you to write?
Writing is cathartic. The act of putting pen to paper helps me become more aware of my inner thoughts and feelings. We all develop blind spots during the course of our lives that prevent us from recognizing our unique characteristics. I have enjoyed writing from an early age, but I found my voice as an author during quarantine.
Writing has shed light on some trauma carried from childhood bullying. I write books about real-life topics that encourage readers to experience feelings and face emotions and learn to help them cope. People from many backgrounds may be the victim of bullying, but I find African American boys are often left out of the conversation. I write because we deserve to have a voice that empowers us to learn and express our identity.
Do you have any quirks?
Using the deep work method makes me more productive. While seated in a quiet room, I focus exclusively on one task at a time. My only distraction is my beautiful cat, Xena. I love working to dark academia music. While going about my daily tasks, I occasionally take a break to play video games; right now, I am playing Mortal Kombat II or Grand Theft Auto; I am a big fan of gaming.
What’s one thing you wish you understood better before you ever got started?
Writing, publishing, and marketing a book requires planning and commitment. It takes patience and a willingness to learn. I should be patient with myself and with others. I am ambitious with great ideas but never had the patience to see them through.
Because of the pandemic, the supply chain strain presented a challenge to me and many other creatives. It might not seem like a big deal at first glance that your book will be delayed. The impact it can have on independent authors, booksellers, and publishers is significant. Despite these challenges, we all aim to make the best of them.
What has been the biggest challenge with publishing your first book?
Sharing personal experiences I’ve compartmentalized for years was my biggest challenge. I want my stories can be used as a springboard for families to discuss the intersectionality of gender and race. There were some challenges to communicating these experiences in a way that was both authentic and age-appropriate.
What keeps you going when things get tough?
A big part of my success has been my support system. I have a very supportive family who believes in me. My parents, Ava and Winston, have always been in my corner. I recently lost my beloved father, Winston my entire family was devastated by his passing. Our family is deeply saddened by the loss of such a kind and affectionate parent. The memory of him motivates me to be vigilant. The resilience and strength of my mother, Ava, have been instrumental in my recovery from this difficult time.
As a fellow author and friend, Daryl Davis has given me many insights into the publishing process while encouraging me along the way. We went to high school together. Daryl is always willing to share his experiences and has shown me how to navigate the obstacles presented by the publishing process. The kind of hard work that he does is exemplary, and I am honored to have the opportunity to learn from him. You can follow Daryl at www.bookgenics.com.
My friend, Justin Johnson, is the founder of Lyoko Studios, a music studio based in Richmond, Virginia. A recent project brought me into contact with Justin, and I became an instant fan. I have been inspired by Justin’s work ethic and commitment to creative development. Justin’s work never ceases to amaze me. I admire his commitment to community building. His demeanor helps calm anxieties, allowing me to be vulnerable, which is where true art happens. If you randomly call him or send him a text message, he will respond with value-added information. You can follow Justin at https://jcjohnson7.wixsite.com/lyokos.
What’s your greatest fear?
After all that I have been experienced, I don’t have much to be afraid of any longer. Humanity is frightening to me, we are capable of doing good, yet we treat each other so poorly. Our lives will be filled with more joy, happiness, compassion, and even love if we learn how to stay hopeful. Empathy for each other’s experiences is a crucial first step to creating a more harmonious society. With my books, I hope to promote peace and coexistence. I expect that the majority of my readers will go through trials and tribulations, hardships and pain, challenges and defeat. We can cope with complex feelings such as loneliness, estrangement, and guilt by being hopeful.
What’s next?
I am working on my next illustrated children’s book entitled “The Boy with the Golden Tennis Racquet” the story is about a boy from a less-privileged background who wants to play tennis. He wants to play tennis, but his family cannot afford a tennis racquet until one day when he finds his grandfather’s tennis racquet. I anticipate publication of this exciting tale this fall. My company is in talks with United States Tennis Association (USTA) to hopefully sponsor the project. My goal is to launch on September 9th at Barnes and Noble in Tribeca during the upcoming US Open Tennis.
I also recently enrolled in a Master’s of Law program at Regent University. I hope to continue developing my education and growth.
How can people find out more about you?
For more about my work, you can visit my Linktree page.
Any final remarks?
My stories are meant to offer something special and positive to everyone who reads them. You never know what awaits in the journey, but if you have a dream, don’t give up. Our perception is shaped by our feelings, beliefs, and words. Everyone should discover their purpose and live it out.
Thank you so much, Devin, for giving us your precious time! We wish you all the best for your journey ahead!
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