Rising author, Epiphany Kendell, recently spoke with cottenkandi.com about writing and the success of her first book, “Hood Girls Do It Best: The Hood Girls A-Z Guide to Success.” A Queens, NY native, the 24 year old shares her life experiences in hopes of inspiring “hood girls” just like herself. From being a witness to drug addiction, abuse, and being involved in an unhealthy relationship, Kendell shares all. Here’s what she had to say during our talk.
Cotten Kandi: What made you want to write this book?
Epiphany Kendell: I would advise aspiring authors to write what’s in their heart. So many people were telling me how I should write my book. I just did me and the response is amazing.
CK: Why did you choose this title?
EK: The title was originally going to be “The Hood Girls A-Z Guide to Success” and that’s because its self explanatory of what I wrote about. In the midst of looking for a slogan, to help promote the book, I came up with “Hood Girls Do It Better.” Then out of no where, I got the idea to use the slogan as the main title.
CK: When did you know that you wanted to write a book and could?
EK: I always loved writing. I always said I’d write a book. I use to tell my friends that I was going to write about book about us. So when this idea came up I jumped on it. As far as knowing that I could, there isn’t anything I cant do besides brain surgery, Lol.
CK: What was your inspiration to continue writing when things got difficult?
EK: My inspiration to continue writing was the fact that I started.
CK: Were your family and friends upset with you for writing about personal matters?
EK: Yes, they were. No matter what I’ve gone through with old friends I was blessed to have had them because they were always supportive. My family, those that I am close to, have always been there for me no matter what and I’m always getting myself into something, Lol.
CK: Did any of them offer any words both negative and positive?
EK: All were pretty much positive even if it was constructive criticism.
CK: What did you learn about yourself while writing?
EK: I learned that I love really hard and I fight hard for what I believe in.
CK: What message are your trying to spread to other young ladies like yourself?
EK: That self love and respect is key to becoming a woman. Also that no matter where you come from that does not determine your future.
CK: What would you have done differently?
EK: Nothing, everything has been a life lesson.
CK: Last thoughts?
EK: Life isn’t close to what we expect its either worse or better.
“Hood Girls Do It Better: The Hood Girls A-Z Guide to Success” is available now. To purchase a copy go to Amazon.com.
2 Comments
Wow she’s young successful writer, that’s really amazing. This interview makes me want to go buy this book. Thanks for sharing.
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