This edition of the Journal of Canadian Urban
Fiction is dedicated to the writers who have committed themselves to sharing
diverse stories and celebrating children from all backgrounds through literature.
We take a brief look at their history, their inspiration, their favourite
children’s titles, and ask them to share some advice for aspiring authors.
CELEBRATING CHILDREN’S AUTHOR ANGELOT NDONGMO
1) How long have you been writing
children's literature, and what first inspired you to write this genre of
books?
I have written the
majority of my life! I was a book addict. Reading and writing stories/ideas
that came to my mind is what I did for fun; never once thought to become an
author. Sure, I squeezed in time for friends, but I was always carrying my
latest read in case there was ever any down time (on the bus, waiting for a
friend at the mall, etc.). Publishing my work happened in 2008 when I was part
of Knowledge Bookstore's book club. The owner, Sean Liburd, expressed enjoying
my reviews I would leave on their website of all the books we covered. He asked
me: "When will you write your book?" The rest, as they say, is
history!
2) How does your personal culture
influence your writing?
My culture is one of
the main influences as to why I write today. My own lack of cultural exposure
growing up (not many options at the time) is the catalyst for my tenacity
throughout the process of publishing. Young children need to be exposed to
culture early on so they can grow with a love and/or appreciation for it.
3) What do you remember about
children's books when you were growing up, and how to you hope to change the
experience with your audience?
I remember the
various fun, magical, or adventurous journeys they would take me on. I realize
now more than ever that the stories we read shape our expectations, teach us
how we fit in to the world, and blast open our imaginations! I had great
stories growing up, so my goal is to provide something equally enjoyable that
features children from the community as the main characters and enrich their
experience even more. My goal is to offer stories that educate or offer humour,
or intrigue, etc.
4) Who is your favourite
children's author, and why?
There are a lot of
authors I love, so I will select just one: Itah Sadu ~ Christopher Clean Up
Your Room!
Not only do I love
the story, I love and admire what she has accomplished with her work! Very
inspiring.
5) What is one piece of advice
you would give to an aspiring children's author, based on your experiences thus
far?
Don't
give up no matter what, no matter how long it takes!
Find
your team of believers that will push you to go on and keep climbing the stairs
to success...there are no elevators!
CONTACT
FACEBOOK: Loving Me Series
SOCIAL MEDIA: @AngelotNdongmo
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