There were certainly parts of the book where I struggled, particularly when revisiting painful memories and emotions. However, these challenges also allowed me to delve deeper into my experiences and bring authenticity to the narrative.
Reginald L. Reed Jr. – 6 July 2024
The Back Flap
Reed invites you into his journey of healing and the pursuit of justice.
With raw vulnerability, Reed delves into the depths of his trauma, offering glimpses into the psychological impact on his life while also offering a powerful message of hope and resilience. Reed’s story highlights the indomitable spirit that can arise from even the darkest of circumstances.
The Day My Mother Never Came Home is not simply a true crime tale; it is a testament to the power of the human spirit and the importance of shedding light on the truth. With each turn of the page, you will find yourself captivated by the narrative. Follow Reed’s journey as he grapples with raw emotions and questions the complexities of true justice. This book will leave an indelible mark on your heart and mind, compelling you to reflect on the fragility of life and the strength it takes to overcome tragedy.
If you seek a gripping story that will remain with you long after you have finished reading, The Day My Mother Never Came Home is a must-read. Join Reed on this transformative journey as he reclaims his voice and sheds light on the darkest corners of his life.
About the book
What is the book about?
The Day My Mother Never Came Home is a memoir about the profound impact of my mother’s absence on my life due to a tragic murder. It explores themes of loss, resilience, and personal growth, reflecting on my journey of healing and finding strength after experiencing such a significant loss.
How long did it take you to write it?
I started writing the book a few years ago, drawing from my childhood memories and experiences growing up without my mother. The process of writing and revising took several years to complete, as I wanted to ensure that I captured the depth and complexity of my emotions and reflections accurately.
Where did you get the idea from?
The idea for the book stemmed from my personal experiences and the need to share my story of coping with loss and finding resilience. It was a way for me to process my emotions, honor my mother’s memory, and connect with others who may have faced similar challenges.
Were there any parts of the book where you struggled?
There were certainly parts of the book where I struggled, particularly when revisiting painful memories and emotions. However, these challenges also allowed me to delve deeper into my experiences and bring authenticity to the narrative.
What came easily?
Some parts of the book came more easily, especially moments of introspection and reflection where I could draw directly from my emotions and experiences. These moments of clarity and insight flowed naturally onto the pages, shaping the narrative of healing and growth.
We all know how important it is for writers to read. Are there any particular authors that have influenced how you write and, if so, how have they influenced you?
As a writer, I have been influenced by authors who explore themes of identity, trauma, and resilience in their work. Authors such as Maya Angelou, Toni Morrison, and Natasha Trethewey have deeply influenced my writing style, emphasizing the power of storytelling to illuminate the human experience and inspire empathy.
Do you have a target reader?
While I don’t have a specific target reader in mind, I hope that my book resonates with anyone who has experienced loss, faced adversity, or seeks inspiration and healing through personal narratives. My aim is to connect with readers on an emotional level and foster meaningful conversations about resilience, healing, and the human experience.
About Writing
Do you have a writing process? If so can you please describe it?
My writing process involves a combination of planning, writing, editing, and seeking feedback to ensure that the final product is polished and cohesive. Once I have my outline in place, I begin writing. I try to maintain a regular writing schedule, dedicating specific blocks of time each day or week to focus solely on writing. During this stage, I focus on getting my thoughts and ideas down on paper without worrying too much about perfection.
Do you outline? If so, do you do so extensively or just chapter headings and a couple of sentences?
I start with a basic outline that includes chapter headings and a general overview of what each chapter will cover. This helps me stay organized and gives me a roadmap to follow as I write. While I don’t outline extensively with every detail, I outline enough to guide the overall structure and flow of the book.
Do you edit as you go or wait until you’ve finished?
I prefer to edit as I go, at least to some extent. After completing a chapter or a significant portion of the book, I go back and revise, edit, and polish the content. This allows me to catch any inconsistencies, refine my language, and ensure that the narrative flows smoothly.
Did you hire a professional editor?
I did hire a professional editor for my book, I also asked for feedback from beta readers and trusted individuals who provided valuable insights and suggestions for improvement.
Do you listen to music while you write? If yes, what gets the fingers tapping?
I do listen to music while I write, as it helps create a conducive atmosphere and keeps me focused. I usually opt for instrumental music, gospel or ambient sounds that are calming and not too distracting. Classical music and gospel are some of my go-to choices that get my creative juices flowing.
About Publishing
Did you submit your work to Agents?
No
What made you decide to go Indie, whether self-publishing or with an indie publisher? Was it a particular event or a gradual process?
I chose to go Indie, opting for self-publishing, for several reasons. It was a combination of a gradual process and a conscious decision based on certain factors:
Creative Control: One of the main reasons was the desire for creative control over my book. Being an Indie author allowed me to make decisions about the content, cover design, marketing strategies, and overall direction of the project.
Flexibility: Self-publishing provided flexibility in terms of timelines, pricing, and distribution channels. I could work at my own pace and choose the platforms and formats that best suited my book and target audience.
Ownership: As an Indie author, I retain full ownership of my work and have the freedom to make changes, updates, or adaptations as needed without external constraints.
Did you get your book cover professionally done or did you do it yourself?
I chose to work with a professional designer to create a professional and eye-catching cover that would appeal to my target audience. While I was involved in the design process and provided input, having a professional designer ensured a high-quality and marketable cover.
Do you have a marketing plan for the book or are you just winging it?
As for marketing, I developed a marketing plan that includes a combination of online promotion, social media engagement, book signings, and outreach to book clubs and communities interested in the themes of my book. While I do have a plan in place, I also remain flexible and open to adjusting strategies based on feedback and market trends.
Any advice that you would like to give to other newbies considering becoming Indie authors?
Research and Educate Yourself: Take the time to research and educate yourself about the self-publishing process, marketing strategies, and the industry as a whole. There are many resources, courses, and communities available for Indie authors that can provide valuable insights and support.
Invest in Quality: Invest in professional services such as editing, cover design, and formatting to ensure a high-quality product that stands out in the market. Quality is key to building credibility and attracting readers.
Build Your Platform: Start building your author platform early by establishing a presence on social media, creating a website or blog, and engaging with your target audience. Building a community of readers and supporters can greatly enhance your book’s visibility and success.
Network and Collaborate: Network with other authors, bloggers, book reviewers, and industry professionals. Collaborating with others can help expand your reach and create opportunities for cross-promotion and collaboration.
Be Persistent and Resilient: The Indie publishing journey may have challenges and setbacks, but remain persistent and resilient. Keep learning, adapting, and improving your craft and marketing strategies.
Overall, going Indie can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience, offering creative freedom, ownership, and opportunities for growth as an author.
End of Interview:
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Get your copy of The Day My Mother Never Came Home from Amazon US or Amazon UK.