Author Spotlight - Imani Ariana Grant

Author Spotlight - Imani Ariana Grant
Monday, April 16, 2018 by pam

hey FFFers – I’m super excited to introduce you to 9-year-old author, Imani Ariana Grant! I met her on April 7^th at the Beau Arts Book Festival in Philadelphia! When Imani Ariana was 8-years-old, she got the idea to write a book ... and she did it! Isn’t that cool?

So, join me in welcoming Imani Ariana!

FFF: Hi, Imani Ariana! I’m so happy to have you here on my blog. I have lots of questions. Ready?

IAG: I’m happy to be here, too! I’m ready!

FFF: Why did you publish your story?

IAG: At first I was curious about how long it took for a book to be published and what my story would look like being illustrated. I also published my story because I wanted to share my knowledge with other children and teach them about the 8 planets in the solar system.

FFF: Where did you find your illustrators?

IAG: My awesome publisher, Dr. Mellissa Sue-John from Lauren Simone Publishing House, connected us with the most amazing and creative kids illustrators for my book. It was cool to know that they are also children. Simonne-Anias Clarke who is 16-years-old and Zachary-Michael Clarke who is 13-years-old.

FFF: I love that! Do you have more similar story ideas? Like, are you planning a series?

IAG: I enjoy science, so I am currently working on my next book which is also in the science category. I guess it could be considered a science series.

FFF: A series is always a good thing. Do you write by hand or by computer?

IAG: I write my draft by hand but then I type it on the computer to email it to my publisher.

FFF: What else do you enjoy besides writing?

IAG: I enjoy a lot of things including singing, dancing, playing basketball and the violin, and swimming. I also enjoy play dates with my friends, exploring and meeting new friends.

FFF: All those things help you be a better writer, too! What is your favorite snack?

IAG: I have a sweet tooth, so my favorite snack is Welch’s fruit snacks.

FFF: Besides publishing a book, what is the coolest thing you ever did?

IAG: The next coolest thing I have done was help my mom build my website and managing it. I also recently cut all of my hair off. I think that was a brave thing to do and pretty cool.

FFF: You look so cute with short hair! And the beauty of hair is it grows back. How do you like to relax?

IAG: If I am traveling, I like to sit on the beach and relax. When I am home I like to watch a movie with my family.

FFF: The beach is my favorite place in the world! What advice do you have for other kids who would like to write and publish a book?

IAG: My biggest advice is to follow your dreams and do not give up.

FFF: That’s good advice for any age! Your mom helps you a lot. What advice does she have for other moms whose kids want to write?

IAG’s mom: As a mother, I believe it is the responsibility of parents to give our children confidence and nurture their talents by allowing them to express themselves. So I would say to other parents, recognize your child strength and talents from an early stage and give them the confidence to believe that they can do all things through Christ that strengthens them. Seek help from experts who can help your child achieve their goals.

FFF: Perfect advice! I’m so happy you encouraged your daughter! Thank you! Imani, where can we find your book?

IAG: Currently, my book is available on Amazon.com, Barnes and Noble, www.laurensimonepubs.com, brownboybrowngirl.com and also on my own website at www.magitots.com

We are working very hard to get my book in as many bookstores as possible across the US and around the globe.

FFF: I believe you will do that very thing! Thanks for being here today! I know all my friends, followers, and fellow authors will join me in telling you to keep going! Please make sure to let me know when your next book is out!

IAG: I will! Thanks for having me!