If it's one thing that gets me pumped, it's a good story. More so, a no nonsense, gifted writer and I find both of these things in none other than the creatively talented, Carol D. Mitchell. A woman of honor, fortitude and strength that has overcome so much in life. I am proud to have had the opportunity to share a little about this creative genius in this week's Feature Friday blog post. Let's get into the interview, shall we?
Getting To Know Carol D. Mitchell
1. So, who is Carol D. Mitchell? Where did you grow up and how did it influence you as an author?
Carol: Carol Denise Mitchell is the sixth of sixteen children and is a writer of multiple genres. I was born in Los Angeles, California during the Civil Rights Movement and grew up in South Central Los Angeles in Watts and Compton, poor. The circumstances behind the Watts Riots of 1966 compelled me to write and tell the story of how I grew up in underprivileged circumstances of poverty and police brutality, which motivated me to tell stories.
2. Wow, I can't imagine the things you've seen and endured. Did any specific events from your childhood shape your storytelling?
Carol: My mother Tasceaie’s incredible grasp of the English language was really inspirational to me. Her decision to leave Watts and go back to school to become a nurse with thirteen children inspired me. She spoke well and meant well. Behind the scenes, my mother shaped my life when it came to storytelling, as exemplified in my book, Rovella Starr.
3. That's amazing! Your mother was a strong and determined woman. Do you have children? If so, how do their personalities and experiences shape your writing?
Carol: I have two sons, Shuun (49) and Daryle (43). My book Straight Up Rapping was highly influenced by my sons wanting to be rappers in their teens. Shuun was a major influence behind the book.
4. Yes, I had the pleasure of indulging in that book, and I have to say, you did not disappoint. What’s your favorite part of being an author? Is it the writing itself, connecting with readers, or something else?
Carol: My favorite part of being an author is the calling to write a book and the feeling of your heart filling up with the beginning of an untold tale. Even when you’re done, something arises in your belly. Next thing you know, you’re at the computer without a loss of thought or inspiration, as your soul tells you exactly where to go. Therefore, before you know it, you have authored another book.
5. Believe me, I know the feeling, Carol. What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received, and how has it impacted your work?
Carol: I have never received direct writing advice, but readers' comments and reviews have helped me shape my stories better. One reader downgraded a review because I changed the book’s cover. That taught me a great lesson on why it’s important to leave things as they are.
6. If you could have dinner with any fictional character, who would it be and why? What would you ask them?
Carol: It would be Rovella Starr. I have never seen a stronger character in my books than her, and because readers projected she is real, why can’t I? (lol). Her beginnings were tough. She never let a horrendous past get in the way of being Rovella Starr, and I was able to build a strong character in her because of that. The readers loved Rovella Starr.
7. I can see why you'd want to have a sit down with Rovella. That would be one hell of a convo, lol. Have you faced any personal challenges that have inspired or influenced your stories?
Carol: My personal challenge and influence derived from an English teacher at Laney College. I authored a paper out of the box. When class ended, I asked the professor why everyone got their paper back except for me. He literally bestowed me with a bubbling writing beginning by telling me, “Your paper was so good, an “A” was not good enough for it.” That’s when I knew I had something that could work when it came to writing. That was the day I took off running with writing, beginning with monologues, the first being: “When I’m In Bed All Alone.”
8. That's really something, Carol! I can see why that would jump start your passion for writing. What’s your proudest personal achievement outside of your writing career?
Carol: Being a mother and a grandmother.
9. Aww! I can imagine the joy that must bring. What do you enjoy doing when you're not writing? Any hobbies or passions?
Carol: Helping others, especially when it comes to homelessness in America.
Writing Adventure
10. Great hearts feel like. That's been my passion since I was a teen. How many books have you written so far, and can you share their titles with us?
Carol: I have written over fifty books, of which forty-three are published. Some titles include What Happened to Suzy, Rovella Starr, Ruthless Pamela Jean, Your Rights: What Employers Do Not Want You to Know, Unstable, and Letters to Carol, just to name a few.
11. Woah! That's an amazing feat. You should be proud. What genre do you primarily write in, and what draws you to this genre?
Carol: I write in many genres, from employment law to adult fiction, thrillers, and mystery.
12. Of all the books you've written, do you have a favorite? What makes it stand out to you?
Carol: Maxine. I authored this book thinking I was about to die and had one more story to tell about a doctor I fell in love with and ruined my marriage. I wanted all to know about a doctor I fell in love with and how great it felt to be in love for one of the few times in my life when I could actually feel the love. I authored the book in five days, and it became one of my most successful novels.
13. Have you explored writing in different genres or are there any genres you'd like to try in the future?
Carol: I love writing self-help books the most. So, when I am not writing adult fiction, I lean heavily towards writing self-help books.
14. Interesting.... Which book of yours do you feel has resonated the most with readers, and why do you think that is?
Carol: What Happened to Suzy. It’s my first novel and is in the nation’s Library of Congress in both the Washington and Jefferson rooms. This book is important because the Library of Congress archived it without my petitioning for them to do so. It speaks heavily to child abuse in the Black community. It’s my first award-winning novel.
15. Oh, wow. That's a great accomplishment. If you could revisit one of your books and change something about it, which book would it be and what would you change?
Carol: Not all my books make it to publication. So, the books I would change don’t get published. I am 100% satisfied with all my publications, and if changes were required, I already made them.
Personal Insights and Fun Facts
16. What’s one thing about you that would surprise your readers?
Carol: I am an amazingly fast thinker and writer. I wrote Ruthless Pamela Jean in seven days. When a story hits me, it hits hard. I know it. Readers have commented: “Carol Denise Mitchell knew these characters!”
17. That's a great gift to have, Carol. I'm not gonna say how long it takes me to write a book, lol. What exciting projects are you working on next? Can you give us a sneak peek or a hint?
Carol: None at the time. I have authored many books. I wrote them to create a legacy after I die. To that end, I am satisfied that I have met that goal.
18. What’s the one piece of advice you would give to aspiring writers?
Carol: Be honest. The terror of the truth can be a compelling way to stop many would-be writers from beginning. Readers will always appreciate the truth, no matter how wild it appears to you!
Connecting with Your Readers
19. I wholeheartedly agree. Where can readers find and follow you on social media? Do you have any favorite platforms where you love to engage with your audience?
Carol:
20. Do you have a website or any online platforms where readers can stay updated on your latest news and releases?
Carol:
Amazon Author Page: https://amazon.com/author/carolmitchell
21. Where can readers purchase your books? Are there specific bookstores or online retailers you recommend?
Carol:
Amazon:
All Author:
Barnes & Noble:
Thank you so much Carol for taking the time to interview with me. I had an amazing time hearing about your life, accomplishments and most of all, your writing journey. May you continue to wow the wonderful world of readers with your creative genius.
Well lovelies, we've concluded Feature Friday with another awesome writer and storyteller. I hope you've learned just a bit more about author, Carol D. Mitchell. Until next time, we'll continue to let our pens do the talking.
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