Today we’d like to introduce you to Alicia McCalla.
Hi Alicia, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My journey began as a school librarian and a part-time science fiction and fantasy author. For seven years, I balanced my full-time job with my passion for writing, publishing two novels and a series of short novellas. However, my life took a profound turn in 2018, when I lost my son in a tragic naval accident. This devastating event shook me to my core and forced me to reevaluate my life and priorities.
Grief recovery therapy played a crucial role in my healing process, and it was through this journey that I discovered my true calling: writing. I decided to pursue a full-time career as an author, focusing on creating stories that empower and inspire others, particularly Black women. Today, I am a successful eCommerce author and creative entrepreneur, crafting electrifying tales featuring powerful Black women in superhero fiction, urban fantasy, Afrofuturism, and paranormal women’s fiction. My mission is to celebrate and empower courageous Black female protagonists, helping readers embrace their inner strength and heroism.
But my work extends beyond just writing fiction. I also write nonfiction, exploring themes of resilience, navigation around obstacles, and overcoming adversity with affirmations books and guides. I narrate audiobooks, bringing my characters and stories to life with my voice, adding another layer of connection with my audience. Additionally, I create merchandise such as journals, affirmation cards, and other products that focus on empowerment and embracing superhuman abilities.
My Shopify store is a hub for all these offerings, providing readers and fans with a comprehensive experience that goes beyond the written word. It’s a place where they can find inspiring stories, practical tools for personal growth, and merchandise that celebrates and empowers Black women. Through my store and brand, I aim to build a community of individuals who are inspired to embrace their inner superheroine and live their lives with courage, strength, and resilience.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The road has been far from smooth. Losing my son was an unimaginable tragedy that brought me to my knees. The grief and anxiety were overwhelming, and I faced significant emotional challenges. I experienced high anxiety, depression, and lethargy, making it impossible to continue my career as a school librarian. This period was marked by intense emotional struggles, but it also led me to dig deep and find what truly mattered to me.
Transitioning to a full-time writing career was another challenge. I had to learn how to manage my time effectively, maintain my mental health, and build a sustainable business model. Establishing a routine with a Miracle Daily Plan, seeking professional help, and surrounding myself with supportive people were essential steps in overcoming these obstacles. Despite the struggles, these experiences have made me stronger and more determined to empower others through my writing.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am an award-winning author specializing in superhero fiction, urban fantasy, Afrofuturism, and paranormal women’s fiction. My work focuses on creating thrilling stories featuring powerful Black women as lead characters. I am known for crafting narratives that pulse with action, otherworldly intrigue, and unapologetic Black Girl Magic.
What sets me apart from others is my commitment to representing and empowering Black women through my stories. I curate content on strong Black women in SciFi and Fantasy Fandom on Pinterest. I also create bookish and casual fandom merchandise featuring Black women as champions and warriors.
I am most proud of my ability to inspire readers to embrace their inner strength and heroism. My stories offer a unique blend of culture, history, and perspective, often overlooked in mainstream fiction. Through my writing, I aim to transform the narrative around Black women’s strengths and inspire readers to see themselves as the heroes of their own stories.
Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
Over the next 5-10 years, I foresee a significant shift towards more diverse and inclusive storytelling in the publishing industry. Readers are increasingly seeking stories that reflect a wide range of experiences and perspectives, and this demand will continue to grow. There will be a greater emphasis on characters and narratives that break away from traditional stereotypes and celebrate diversity.
Digital and multimedia storytelling will also play a crucial role in the future of the industry. Audiobooks, serialized content, and transmedia projects will become more popular as readers look for immersive and interactive experiences. Authors will need to embrace these formats and find innovative ways to engage their audiences.
Additionally, direct-to-consumer sales and eCommerce will continue to rise, allowing authors to build closer relationships with their readers and maintain control over their work. This shift will enable more independent authors to thrive and reach their target audiences without relying solely on traditional publishing routes.
Pricing:
- Badass Empowerment Bundle (Digitally Delivered): Regular price: $14.97, Bundle price: $9.99 (Save over 30%) This digital bundle is designed to inspire and empower readers, helping them embrace their inner superheroine and cultivate resilience, creativity, and strength.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://aliciamccalla.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/a_mccalla
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AliciaMcCallaAuthor
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/AliciaMcCalla
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2m8S3OXrPwHWIggl3P1q-Q
- Other: https://www.pinterest.com/alicia_mccalla_author/
Image Credits
Dr. Howard L. McCalla
