Digital Book Nook recently caught up with Tymeka Coney, author of “I Don’t Like Covid-19.” We are excited to share this insightful interview with our readers today.
When did you first discover that you enjoy writing and wanted to become a published author?
I’ve always enjoyed writing since I can remember. I would write my Mom poems and just write poetry all the time. I actually never gave thought to becoming a published author until I saw that I had tons of poems that I had written over the years and I had an epiphany that perhaps I should publish a poetry book. I then began to research other poets that I admire like Maya Angelou, Nikki Giovanni and saw how they were able to have their poetry shared all over the world through their books, so I was inspired to do the same. However, I didn’t let not having the access they had to major publishers detour me from publishing my book. Through my research I found an independent publisher and they were able to assist me with publishing my 1st book of Poetry, “Words Unspoken: Volume I-Deeper Than Eyes Can See.” Since the 1st book I have continued on my journey as an Author and now become my own publisher with my 2 Children’s Books…”I Don’t Like Racism,” and “I Don’t Like COVID-19.”
What is your favorite and the most challenging aspect of writing?
My favorite and most challenging aspect of writing is the discipline it takes to sit down and write. It is both my favorite and challenging because a lot of times in life you don’t really get the opportunity to still away from the outside world or socialization and write. It is also challenging at times because I don’t get to hang out and socialize as much. But is also my favorite because I enjoy quiet moments alone with my thoughts and words and using my creativity and imagination to give birth to a new project/book that I can share with the world and inspire others and it also gives me a sense of accomplishment to see that I have managed to do something productive with my alone time.
Tell us about your latest release.
My latest release is, “I Don’t Like COVID-19.” It is told through the eyes of a young African-American girl named DaNyla, this story takes you on a journey as she learns and educates others about the effects of COVID-19. It will inspire all ages and genders around the world to stay hopeful and to continue to wear their masks, clean their hands and take the necessary steps to remain safe despite the fact that the COVID-19 Pandemic still remains.
How did you come up with the title of your book?
The title of the book, “I Don’t Like COVID-19,” was derived from the title of my 1st book-“ “I Don’t Like Racism,” and now they are both part of a series called, “I Don’t Like Series,” which takes readers on a journey as this young African-American girl named DaNyla, makes discoveries in her community and the world about relevant topics like racism and COVID-19.
What do you hope readers are able to get from reading your story?
I am hoping that readers just continue to keep the importance in mind of exercising safety as it relates to COVID-19. I am hoping that more children and adults will be mindful of COVID-19 and it’s affects but most importantly protecting themselves by wearing masks, washing their hands and also knowing about the symptoms and the vaccines that exist. I also hope that readers will spread the word about it instead of spreading it and children, grandparents, parents, teachers and others all around the world will come into more awareness about COVID-19 after reading this book.
Who are some of your favorite authors?
I have tons of favorite authors and probably too many to name as I am an avid reader with several bookshelves in my home. To name a few..I love Poetry books by Maya Angelou, Nikki Giovanni, Alicia Keys and Langston Hughes. I have self-help books by TD Jakes and Steve Harvey and I also like children book author Grace Byers.
Do you have any advice for writers looking to get published?
My advice for writers looking to get published would be to just write. Write about what you know and what you are passionate about and a story you are motivated to tell, as it will require a discipline to keep going back to the story and writing until the story is complete. I would also say don’t think about the reasons you can’t get published but find every reason why you should be published because you have something to say and a story that can inspire, impact and entertain someone that you’ve written and created.
We all have a story and a voice that should be heard and as writers we have a responsibility to use our voice in a positive light to enhance the lives of others. There is a quote, “ If you build it..They will come.” That can also be a metaphor for writing. “If you write it, They will come and read it.” Also, if you focus on the part you can do which is write, other people will come along to help you complete the process, like editors, publishers, distributors etc.
Follow Tymeka: Website
Facebook – @TymekaConey
Instagram – @TymekaTymeLaShae
Twitter- @AuthorTymeka
I Don’t Like Covid-19 is available at Amazon on Kindle and in paperback.
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