Today we’d like to introduce you to Shani Taylor.
Hi Shani, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I haven’t always wanted to be an author. Well, the thought crossed my mind years ago. I was good at it, very good at it, but never imagined it could be possible. So I brushed the idea off. I’ve always enjoyed the Arts. I studied English Liberal Arts in college, tutored college freshmen in English, most of my early adult life consisted of reading and writing as an assignment, so there wasn’t much thought of it outside of that. Especially since historically, authors careers can be a hit or miss.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Smoother than I would have imagined. But, not easy. I’ve had this idea that authors are sought after by big publishing companies. I thought, in order to actually be considered an author that I’d need to write something so amazing that agents would contact me. The self-publishing world has changed drastically, in a good way. The struggles that come along with this route often stem from not having a traditional publisher backing you. So things like formatting my book, seeking out an illustrator, finding a quality print-on-demand company, all things that would be handled by a team if I were traditionally published, became a bit of a struggle along the way.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I write children’s books to empower children of all ages. Especially our black children. I noticed a lack of diversity in children’s literature and knew we needed to make change. I’m an author who is committed to debunking the myths surrounding black families and our values. Not only that, I advocate for literacy as a whole. I have a mission to make reading fun. Encouraging our youth to read beyond the classroom. If kids aren’t able to find stories they can connect with, I am encouraging them all to write what they’d like to read.
Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
People can visit my website www.authorshanitaylor.com, I have everything listed there including school visits for all grade levels. I am open to all lines of support, mention me to your local school, follow me on social media and share a post or 2, and sign up to join my email list to stay connected. Instagram: authorshanitaylor
Pricing:
- 13.99 paperback on Amazon
- 19.99 hardcover Barnes and Noble
Contact Info:
- Website: www.authorshanitaylor.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/authorshanitaylor?igshid=MjkzY2Y1YTY=
Image Credits
Jatoya Lanisha (photographer for my headshot only)
