Alan Black

Pre-Interview:

I was raised and grew up in the United Methodist Church. While I do proudly embrace my background and personal history within the United Methodist Church, I do feel that ultimately what is important is not the denomination that you are a part of. What matters most is the relationship that you have with the Lord. Part and parcel to any relationship is the level of commitment that one makes to it. With any and all relationships they are going to take time to grow.

Through the years, if I were to describe my relationship with the Lord using one word it would be “transformation.” Continuing to grow daily in my walk with the Lord, and as well continue to display the fruits of his Spirit daily is for me what my life is all about. Frankly for these times, my attitude and belief are that the world is looking to those who are Christians to see if in fact their talk does indeed match their walk.

As is the case with each of us I have experienced many twists and turns along the road of life. But each and every step along that road has led me to this point in life to humbly say that I am an author. But most of all to be able to say that I am a Christian author to me is the most important thing of all.

To everything there is a time and season. Though I was unsure of what was in store for me, I am blessed to say that by just being obedient and trusting in the Lord I am now able to say and most importantly show others that God will qualify you and lead you to accomplish what his charge is for you by just being a willing servant. As this is a fact, what He has done through me, it was done so to give Him the glory.

Author Interview:

1.What inspires you most to write?

Music is where my inspiration to write began. I have been a lyricist for over 30 plus years. My continued motivation is my observation of life around us and reflections on past experiences.

2. What is your favorite genre?

My favorite genre is inspirational. Be it Christian inspirational or Secular inspiration both have a strong appeal to me.

3. Who is one author you admire if any and why?

Alex Haley is the author I admire the most. The detail in which he portrays his characters and the images he paints via words is tremendous.

4. How do you overcome blank writing spells?

I don’t really worry about writing spells. My attitude has always been that your writing will have natural ebbs and flows. The important thing is not to force it.

5. What legal publishing advice can you give?

More than anything else, seek out a mentor. Someone who has been where you are going. Do your homework before you set out to publish your book.

6. How many books have you written, are any a bestseller yet?

I have written three books. My second book, In the Spirit Intended achieved Best Seller Author status via Amazon in July 2019. My third book Just a Closer Walk will be out early 2022.

7. If you had the opportunity to rewrite one movie script which would it be, why?

I would do a rewrite on the Marvel Fantastic Four franchise. For whatever reason both movies have barely registered.

8. What are some difficulties you've experienced in your writing career; how do you handle book critiques/criticism?

My initial difficulties were to conquer the fear of getting started. I have learned to accept criticism as a way and means of striving to improve my craft of writing.

9. What are your best experiences in your writing career?

The opportunity to express my thoughts and visions via writing have allowed me to step into new realms. Realms that are creating growth and providing me with greater vision for life around me.

10. Do you prefer to write in silence and or have some sort sound in the background?

I write in silence. My most consistent writing period is between six in the morning until about nine A.M

11. What are some encouraging words you'd give to another author/writer?

Follow your passion or dream. Don’t get caught up in how many pages the book is, will people like my book, etc. If it’s in you to write, don't turn away from your calling.

12. How did you decide the pricing of your material; how did you go about promotion/advertising and distribution of your work?

I worked with my book coach to finalize the pricing. Promotion/Advertising is always a major challenge. This requires research and networking. My distribution has been via Amazon and Ingram Spark.

13. Why should anyone read your book?

My books are down to earth, easy to identify with, and provide my readers with time to reflect on their lives. As well, each book is intended to be of inspiration to my readers.

14. Did you have a book coach?

Yes. I have worked with a book coach from day one for all three books.

15. What was your favorite subject in school?

My favorite subject was History and Philosophy.

16. Are you self-published or have an established publishing contract elsewhere?

I have done self-publishing for all three of my books.