Showing posts with label author interview. Show all posts
Showing posts with label author interview. Show all posts

Tuesday 9 November 2021

Alem Hailu of Ethiopian Herald interviews Author Brenda Mohammed

 

Alem Hailu of Ethiopian Herald interviews                        Author Brenda Mohammed

Read the full interview here:

A leap from a sickbed to a beacon tower

 By ALEM HAILU

To uplift the mood of the bedridden whose life despair has eclipsed, and to enthuse emerging authors, they could climb to ivory tower even dragging their last leg from a morass with perseverance, there could be no better example than the footpath of internationally-published-renowned-author-poet Brenda Mohammed.

This journalist has got the privilege of e-mail interviewing her. Excerpts below.

Could you brief us about your upbringing, your family, and neighbours with your village, country, and school as a backdrop?

 My father was a school principal. I was born when he was principal of the Union Village Presbyterian school in Trinidad, my home country. I had six sisters and three brothers. Because of my father’s status, we were well known and respected by all in the village. Neighbours and friends regularly visited our home to seek his help in getting their children accepted at the school.

The principal’s home was in the same yard as the school and church, and we attended church and Sunday school regularly. My father held positions of responsibility in the church too. My oldest sister was the church’s organist, and at times she sang in the choir.

When I was seven years old, my father was transferred to another village in South Trinidad, and the setting of the home, school and church was the same. The people were just as nice.

My father was granted a Government scholarship to further his studies in the United Kingdom, and my mother took charge of the home and cared for us singlehandedly until his return.

I won a scholarship to attend a prestigious high school in San Fernando, but after one year my father was promoted to Senior Inspector of Schools and transferred to East Trinidad. I and one of my sisters were therefore sent to St. Augustine Girls’ High School, another prestigious school in the east, from where we both graduated.

 How was your educational pursuit? Does the profession you qualified in cross-fertilize with authorship of both books--fiction and nonfiction?

My life in the early years was based around my father’s career and moving from place to place.  He was again transferred to the south, and he built a brand new home for us in Marabella in South Trinidad. After graduation, I did not want to return to school to do higher studies. Although I was just sixteen years old, I wanted to work at a bank and I got the job.

I also pursued studies in banking on a part-time basis and was successful. I received promotion after promotion and achieved managerial status. As a Commercial Credit Manager, I was required to visit large businesses, assess their worth, write proposals for finance, and send them to our Head Office for approval. Most of the time I received clean sanctions, meaning that they were approved with no questions asked.

That built up my confidence in writing. To answer your question, my profession cross-fertilized with the authorship of both fiction and nonfiction books. In fact, I wrote a story, ‘Dead Business,’ and part of the setting was in the morgue of a funeral home that I visited to assess finance for a crematorium.

 You were combating cancer? How was it like the life you spent? You have a book about how you overcame the dark spot in your life to flicker a ray of optimism. Will you allow as a chink into the book by way of a synopsis?

 I consider my near-death experience with cancer to be a blessing in disguise.’ I Am Cancer Free,’ was the first book I published. It became a bestseller and motivated me to keep on writing. It was an award winner in the category Health and Fitness in Readers Favorite International Awards 2018, and winner of Mc Grath House Indie Book Awards 2016 in the category Best Non-Fiction. It received a five-star review from Readers Favorite, and I will share the review instead of a synopsis.

Completed on:02/16/2017

Review Rating:5 stars!

Reviewed by Mamta Madhavan for Readers' Favorite 

“I Am Cancer Free by Mrs. Brenda C. Mohammed is a poignant memoir of the author's personal battle with cancer.

Her faith in God and proving that ovarian cancer need not be a death sentence are what make this memoir a heartrending read. The author's 'never say die' attitude, the decision not to give up in life, and finally being cancer-free will encourage everyone who has been diagnosed with the disease or who has suffered from cancer.

The memoir recounts from the time of diagnosis the experiences the author went through during the treatment, her emotions, fears, finances, until the successful treatment of the disease. It is a courageous story of survival, faith, and strength.

The author chronicles every step of her journey methodically, without leaving anything out, making the narration very personal, honest, and palpable to readers. The presence of God in everyone's life, a positive attitude, and the power of prayers run through the memoir.

The author reiterates the fact that faith in God removes all obstacles in life. The conversational style of writing connects well with readers, making it easy for them to understand her journey.

The author has also shared the poems she wrote during that phase in her life, where she again speaks about her story, faith in the Lord, and a Higher Power.

For all those who are suffering from cancer and are battling the disease, this book is a must-read as it will give them hope, strength, and courage to fight the disease.”

As a prolific and decorated author displaying a meteoric rise in the literary firmament, from where do you get the stamina to climb from one rung of the ladder to another, and still keep the tempo, which proves to be the difficult thing?

 I am humbled that you have seen my accomplishments in such a remarkable light. My secret is, that I pray to God for guidance for each step I take. I give all credit to God.

 Stunningly, not only being prolific you are also versatile in genres. What can you say about that? Do you conduct thorough research before writing books? The language fine-tunes with the theme to render your book palatable. Could you say a word or two about that?

 Your question made me examine the genres I have written - memoirs, science fiction, romance, self-help, mystery, children’s books, psychological thrillers, poetry, and poetry anthologies.

My memoirs and children’s books are based on my careers and travels.

My Life as a Banker begins with my childhood and continues with my career in banking.  

After leaving banking, I worked in Insurance and qualified for the Million Dollar Round Table, the Premier Association for Financial Professionals, several times. I travelled abroad to several conferences, and my books, Retirement is Fun and Travel Memoirs are filled with those experiences.

With science fiction, mystery, romance, and thrillers, I used my imagination and did some research too. Most of my poetry are motivational compositions. My self-help books are about writing, and I wrote this to help aspiring authors.

 You have bagged numerous awards. Tell us about the bright spots in your life concerning your authorship. What is the upside of giving an award? What must be the method of nomination (some complain about race/color... discrimination)?

 I have won several literary awards in the USA, Peru, Kazakhstan, Seychelles, Nigeria, India, Romania, Argentina, Morocco, Philippines, Hong Kong, Barcelona, Indonesia, and the UK.

I made headlines in several newspapers around the world.

Many of my books were bestsellers when newly released and many received five-star reviews from Readers Favorite International.

In November 2018, I won two awards on the same night, from Readers Favorite International for my science fiction book, ‘Zeeka Chronicles,’ in the category Young Adult Thriller, and my Memoir, ‘I am Cancer Free,’ in the category Health and Fitness. I received those awards in a magnificent ceremony at the Regency Hotel in Miami.

Three of my books won gold awards in Connection EMagazine Readers’ Choice Awards - Zeeka Chronicles, in the category science fiction, [2018] Stories People love [2019], in the category romance, and How to Write for Success, in the category non-fiction. [2019].

In Sept 2021, my mystery book, Barry Holmes Mysteries, won me Best Writer - Fantasy Award in the CLR [ Culture, Literature, and Research] Awards.

My science fiction book, ‘Zeeka and the Zombies, has been approved by Cinebooks.com to be made into a cinematic book, and it is presently in production.

To answer your question, awards motivate a writer to improve and that is the upside. I do not think that race or colour should be factors when nominating someone for an award.

I give awards in my Literary forum to poets who are deserving and are considered five-star poets. Awards should be based on a writer’s work and nothing else.

 Given your talent and the impacts your books about cancer and How to Write for Success, among others created, many wonder when is it you bag a Nobel prize in literature. What is your take on this?

 Alem, to win a Nobel Prize, someone who has already been nominated for one, must nominate a writer. I do not know any of the nominees or winners personally. It seems way out of my reach, but with God nothing is impossible.

 Have the five-star reviews you received motivated you for a further thrust into literature?

 Yes. They certainly have.

 Your poems appear in reputed journals. What inspires you to write poems that some think is a restricted domain to the select few? You have a circle of poets. Would you relate to us about that?

I do not think that writing poems are restricted to a select fewIn fact, I believe there are more poets than writers of fiction and non-fiction. I am a member of numerous poetry groups on Facebook, and I am being invited to join more new ones, which are being formed every day.

Of the 42 books I have published to date, ten are poetry books. I expect to publish my eleventh one for my birthday on 1st December.

 How and why did you establish a literary network on How to Write for Success?

 I started the How to Write for Success Literary Forum in February 2018, with a mission to spread Literary Talent Worldwide. At that time, I had the help of four Administrators.

In 2019, we were concerned with the number of suicides in the world, and decided to publish an anthology with poems to prevent suicide. Since it was our first attempt at an anthology we kept it low-keyed.

We opened a sub-forum to collect the poems and named it - Poems for Prevention of Suicide Literary Forum.

Poets from around the world participated in A Spark of Hope: A Treasury of Poems for Saving Lives, The Kindle versions of the book were given free of charge, and the book achieved Amazon's No 1 bestselling ranking within a couple of days.

In 2020, we published Part II of A Spark of Hope, and that too earned Amazon's No 1 bestseller ranking.

The Covid pandemic started in early 2020 and caused chaos in the lives of citizens all over the world. There was a rise in Domestic Violence and the Administration felt there was a need for an anthology against Domestic Violence.

Another sub-forum, - Literary Forum for Poems Against Domestic Violence was created for this purpose.

Volumes One and Two of Break the Silence: An Anthology of Poems Against Domestic Violence were published in 2020 and 2021.

Again, the Kindle versions of the book were given free, and both volumes achieved Amazon No 1 bestseller rank.

With the success of How to Write for Success Literary Network and the popularity of my book How to Write for Success, many members published books. We saw the need to establish the third sub-forum, Library of How to Write for Success – Books only.

The fourth sub-forum, Grupo Hispaniomundial De Escritores - UHE Trinidad and Tobago was formed as a result of my appointment as National President of UHE Trinidad and Tobago, by the President and Founder of Grupo Hispaniomundial De Escritores, Carlos Hugo Garrido Chalen.

Today, we have sixteen efficient persons who help with different aspects of the Administration of the Literary Network which comprises the main forum, four sub-forums, and members in excess of 13000.

In February 2021 we started a half-yearly magazine and have published two issues in March and September 2021. The next issue will be on the fourth anniversary of the network.

We also have a website and YouTube channel.

 Did covid-19 and the economic meltdown affect your penmanship? (Some say on the other end covid-19 promoted readership)

 Covid19 brought about many changes. It stopped me from travelling, but I spent the time writing.  I believe it also promoted readership because book sales have increased.

 Do you have a plan to be a publisher and help emerging authors?

 Becoming a publisher would entail hiring a big staff. I do not have future plans to do so. However, I believe that if I have succeeded in mastering self-publishing, every writer can do it. My reasons for publishing’ How to Write for Success Volumes One and Two’ are to help emerging authors master the art of self-publishing, and save the expense of hiring a publisher.

 Do you have a plan to write fiction about Trinidad so that others enjoy the story of your motherland?

 Some of my fiction books are set on the beautiful island of Trinidad. They are The Gift of Love, The Axe Murderer, What Happened to Mary Loo, Barry Holmes Mysteries, and Heart-Warming Tales. I may write another one soon.

 You are an advocate against domestic violence and suicide. What works did you (and friends) do to such effect?

 Together with several bestselling authors from my literary forums, we have published four Amazon No 1 best-selling anthologies for these causes: A Spark of Hope I and II: A Treasury of Poems for Saving Lives, and Break the Silence I and II: An Anthology Against Domestic Violence. We have had many heart-warming reports that these books have helped to save lives.

READ THE INTERVIEW IN THE SUNDAY ETHIOPIAN HERALD. CLICK HERE  Read Page 8

 

Thursday 5 December 2019

SPACE TIME MAGAZINE INTERVIEWS BRENDA MOHAMMED



SPACE TIME MAGAZINE
Subject: Interview | Name: BRENDA MOHAMMED
GALAXY: Milky Way, PLANET: Earth, SPECIES: Humanoid.
OCCUPATION: Author, GENRE: Sci-Fi…
IDENTIFICATION OF HUMANOID: Brenda Mohammed


INTRODUCTION
Brenda Mohammed a multi-genre, award-winning author and poet, is the author of twenty-one books. She lives in Trinidad in the Caribbean.
Brenda is a former Bank Manager of a leading International Bank in Trinidad and Tobago and a former Insurance Professional. She holds a Banking Diploma from The Institute of Bankers, London and a Life Underwriting diploma from American College, USA. She is a Lifetime Member of the Million Dollar Round Table – The Premier Association for Financial Professionals.
Since she started writing she has won several awards. In November 2018 she traveled to Miami to collect two prestigious awards from Readers Favorite International for two of her books. One award was for Zeeka Chronicles: Revenge of Zeeka, a Science Fiction, and the other for I am Cancer Free, A Memoir.
Her work has been recognized by World Nations Writers’ Union, and she was made a member as well as an Honorary member of its World Higher Literary Academic Council.
She also received a World Laureate in Literature Award for her lifetime achievements in Literature, and a Certificate of Honour for serving as a juror in an International Poetry Contest from World Nations Writers Union in December 2018.
At the same time, she was presented with a Global Literature Guardian Award from the Founder of Motivational Strips and its Associates, World Nations Writers’ Union, and Union Hispanomundial de Escritores
On 4th March 2019, Motivational Strips and the Nominating Authorities recognized Brenda for her efforts in maintaining and spreading Global Peace and awarded her with a Global Peace Award [Gold].
June 2019 appointed National President of the Union of Writers, Union Hispaniomundial de Escritos for Trinidad and Tobago.
In August 2019 received a Diploma and World Poetic Star Award from World Nations Writers Union. Writers, Union Hispaniomundial de Escritos for Trinidad and Tobago
On 31st August 2019 was honored by the Seychelles Government Accredited Literary Society [ LLSF] for her contribution to World Poetry, creativity, and writing expertise.
On October 16th 2019 she was awarded the Order of Shakespeare Medal by the Founder of the Facebook group Shiju H Pallithazheth for selfless service imparted to keep the ambiance of world writers on a rightful and progressive path, as well as in helping the forum in maintaining the modus operandi of Motivational Strips secure since its inception stage a year ago.

QUESTIONS
ALEXA WAYNE (AW): When did you find out you would want to write novels?

BRENDA MOHAMMED: It was never my intention to become a writer.
I wrote I am Cancer Free to tell persons in a similar position that cancer is a battle you have to fight and win. The response I received from buyers and readers gave me encouragement to write more books.
I am Cancer Free was the winner of Mc Grath House Indie Book Awards in the category Non-Fiction in September 2016 and won an award from Readers Favorite International Book Awards 2018 in the category Health and Fitness.

AW: You mentioned your work, all set in science-fiction or cyborg settings, would you let our readers know why you are attracted to that genre?

BRENDA MOHAMMED: I am a multi-genre writer but suddenly got an idea for a science fiction series when I read about the zika virus.
It was set in the year 2036 and based on events that took place 20 years before.
After writing the first three books, Zeeka and the Zombies, Zeeka’s Child, and Zeeka Returns, I combined them into one book named Revenge of Zeeka: Horror Trilogy.

Revenge of Zeeka: Horror Trilogy received a five-star review from Readers Favorite.
I thought I was done with the series, but Zeeka haunted me in my dreams.
I had the same dream for almost a month.
He insisted that I write the fourth book, Zeeka’s Ghost because he said that I did not tell the full story.
“What do you mean by the full story?” I asked him.
He replied, “Start writing and I will tell you what to write.”
I said, “But you are dead. You committed suicide. How can you tell me what to write?”
“Do you believe in ghosts?” he asked.
I wrote Zeeka’s Ghost, the fourth book, which was unplanned, and believe it or not, Zeeka told me what to write.

I was still not finished with the series.
He returned in my dreams and told me to write the fifth book, Resurrection to reveal the true identity of Zombie Number Nine.
I was guided by him to do that book as well.

You must think that I am crazy, but I believe all writers experience something similar.
I combined all five stories into one book named Zeeka Chronicles: Revenge of Zeeka.
The book won an award in Readers Favorite International Awards 2018.
These are some of the headlines of reviews on Amazon.
1. I found the book to be original, brilliant, and full of suspense.
2. Just when you thought you knew everything about Zombies, comes this imaginative tale that re-defines their existence.
3. I loved this book. It will make a great movie. I recommend it if you love sci-fi novels.
4.Great Science Fiction reading.
5.Twilight Zone-like Sci-Fi Shorts.
6.Excellent, original story.
7. Blind-siding events Abound.
8. A fascinating vision of our future.
9. An above-average zombie series brought together in one superb collection.
10. Teens and up will adore this book.
11. I loved Zeeka Chronicles; it has worldwide appeal for anyone looking for an entertaining story that is different.
12. Mohammed did a great job taking current/recent events and imagining how they might affect our future.
13. A gory, romantic and thrilling take on the zombie genre, all in one collection.
14. Off-The-Wall But Engaging Sci-Fi/Horror.
AW: When writing about sci-fi, do you do research and if so, how far do you go with your research?

BRENDA MOHAMMED: Yes. When I wrote the Zeeka stories I researched for high-tech weapons, robots, programmable zombies, and other technology in the year 2036 but found nothing. My eight-year-old grandson came up with names for weapons and technological equipment and I am very proud of him. Reviewers commented positively on the shrinkenator, zombies, robots, and weapons.

AW: What is most important to you when writing your novels?

BRENDA MOHAMMED: I write with the readers in mind. I want my readers to experience every emotion expressed by my characters such as love, joy, rage, terror, disappointment, and sorrow.

AW: Which authors influenced your writing in science-fiction?

BRENDA MOHAMMED: I cannot name a science fiction author because I never read any science fiction books that interested me. I can name movies that enthralled me like Star Wars, Star Trek, Back to the Future, T-Rex, Ex Machina and many more.

AW: Which of your novels is your favorite and why is it your favorite?

BRENDA MOHAMMED: Zeeka Chronicles: Revenge of Zeeka is definitely my favourite novel. It was my first try at science fiction and it was a great success. It received a five-star review from Readers Favorite soon after I published it, and won several awards as follows:

1. Award winner in the Category Young Adult Thriller in Readers Favorite International Awards 2018.



2. Winner of the gold award in the category science fiction in Emagazine Readers' Choice Awards 2018.


3. Top ten finalist in the Author Academy Global Awards 2018.

4.Winner in Science Fiction in SIBA Awards 2017.

AW: Do you believe in alien visiting our world, by that I mean in abduction or close encounters of 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th kind?

BRENDA MOHAMMED: No. I do not believe in aliens although I may write about them. I regard them as fiction.

AW: What made you decide to be self-published?

BRENDA MOHAMMED: I chose self-publishing as I wanted the freedom to revise my books or covers whenever I want without having to wait on a publisher to do so.

AW: What sets you apart from other science-fiction and cyborg authors?

BRENDA MOHAMMED: I don’t consider myself a famous science fiction writer. However, the book, Zeeka Chronicles: Revenge of Zeeka did win awards from Readers Favorite and other entities. Reviewers have emphasized its originality, so it is worth reading.

AW: What can readers look forward to from Brenda Mohammed in 2019?

BRENDA MOHAMMED:
In January 2019 I released my first book of Poetry, Strength for the Disheartened: Motivational Poems.
I had founded a Facebook group called How to Write for Success in February 2017.
In October 2018 I affiliated it to another Facebook Group called Motivational Strips.
Both groups have the same mission of Writers’ Empowerment.
Because of that association, I have developed a passion for poetry.
On February 2nd, 2019 both groups produced A Spark of Hope: An Anthology of Poems for Saving Lives.
The book topped the charts on Amazon and made New Release No.1 within the space of two days.
In February 2019, I released a Crime fiction, The Axe Murderer: Barry Holmes Investigates.
in August 2019 I released my second book of poetry - Dreams of the Heart: A Poetry Collection.
After I returned from a trip abroad I wrote STORIES THAT INTRIGUE, a romance novel, and released it in October 2019.
Whether or not I will write another science fiction book only time will tell.

AW: Is there any website or social media where people can reach or follow you?

BRENDA MOHAMMED: I have several Facebook Pages for the different genres as well as a website.

Website

Twitter
BlogSpot
LinkedIn
GoodReads
Amazon Universal Link

This concludes our interview.
Thank you so very much for your time.
We thank you for your time and answers.
We are honored to have you on our website and we hope you had a wonderful time answering our questions.

Kind regards,
Space-Time Magazine


Sunday 17 November 2019

BAGGING INNUMERABLE AWARDS PINNING HOPES ON LIGHT AT THE END OF THE CHANNEL


BAGGING INNUMERABLE AWARDS PINNING HOPES ON LIGHT AT THE END OF THE CHANNEL.
By Alem Hailu

The Ethiopian Herald Special Sunday’s Edition is all out to scout for gurus that stamped a gargantuan footprint on the global arena thereby to enthuse others to challenge their limits cognizant that success is at arm’s reach if one tooth and nail fights to circumvent pitfalls stationed all the way on the rocky road of life.

In the Success column of this edition, we have stood the opportunity of interviewing
a prolific author on the other end of the Atlantic Ocean. She goes by the name of Brenda Mohammed. Aside from helping many authors, she uses literature as a vehicle to troubleshoot challenges borrowing lessons drawn the hardest way from dark nights of the soul.


Excerpts:
The Ethiopian Herald: Greetings from Ethiopia. Thank you for accepting our request to be our guest.

Brenda Mohammed: I am happy to be a guest on The Ethiopian Herald Special Sunday Edition and thank you for this opportunity.

Herald: To begin with could you brief us about yourself--where you were born, your upbringing and your educational pursuit and also your country?

Brenda: I was born in Trinidad in the Caribbean and still live there. Trinidad is an oil-rich nation and is known as the land of the calypso.
I am a former Bank Manager of a large international bank in Trinidad, and hold a Diploma in Banking from the Institute of Bankers in London.
After banking, I moved into the Insurance field. I obtained a Diploma in Life Underwriting from the American College, USA and qualified for the Million Dollar Round Table, the Premier Association for Financial Professionals, six times in a row.
Life Membership in MDRT was conferred on me.

Herald: Do you remember how and when you were drawn to the wonderland of literature?

Brenda: My writing career sparked after my near-death experience with Cancer and my miraculous recovery.
I wrote the book, I AM CANCER FREE to tell people who were in similar positions that cancer does not have to be a death sentence. The book became a best seller and gave me the encouragement to continue writing.

3) How is it like the twists and turns you gone through before you made a prolific author-poet of yourself? How many books do you have?

Brenda: I wrote twenty-four books to date. Some of my books won multiple awards as follows.
1. I am Cancer Free - Readers Favorite award in category Health and Fitness 2018 and McGrath's first-place winner in Non-fiction 2016.
2. Zeeka Chronicles was an award winner in the Category Young Adult Thriller in Readers Favorite International Awards 2018, winner in Science Fiction in SIBA Awards 2017, winner of the gold award in the category science fiction in Connections Emagazine Readers' Choice Awards 2018, and winner in the top ten finalists for science fiction in the Author Academy Global Awards 2018.
3 August 2019 Stories People Love was a winner of two gold medals in Connections EMagazine Readers' Choice Awards. First place in Romance Category, and first place in all genres.
4. In the same contest How to Write for Success won a gold medal in the category Non- Fiction.
5. My Life as a Banker - 2nd place Bio/memoirs in SIBA Awards.
Several of my books and even an Audiobook are bestsellers.

Besides awards for my books I was awarded the following:
.
1.In October 2018 Appointed as Honorary Member of the World Higher Literary Academic Council of WORLD NATIONS WRITERS' UNION of Kazakhstan.
2. On 29th December 2018, awarded the World Laureate in Literature by World Nations Writers Union.
3. On 30th December 2018, I received a Global Literature Guardian Award from Founder of Motivational Strips and Associates, World Nations Writers' Union, and Union Hispanomundial de Escritores.
4. On 31st December received a Certificate of Honour for serving as a juror in an International Poetry Contest sponsored by World Nations Writers Union.
5. For efforts in maintaining and spreading Global Peace, Motivational Strips and its Nominating Authorities awarded me with a Golden Dove of Peace Award in 2019.
6. Appointed June 2019 National President of the Union of Writers, Union Hispaniomundial de Escritos for Trinidad and Tobago."
7. In August 2019 received a Diploma and World Poetic Star Award from World Nations Writers Union.
8. On 31st August 2019 was honoured by the Seychelles Government Accredited Literary Society [ LLSF]for her contribution to World Poetry, creativity, and writing expertise.
9. On October 16th, 2019 I was awarded the Order of Shakespeare Medal by the Founder of the Facebook group Shiju H Pallithazheth for selfless service imparted to keep the ambiance of world writers on a rightful and progressive path, as well as in helping the forum in maintaining the modus operandi of Motivational Strips secure since its inception a year ago.


Herald: On what areas do the themes of your work revolve around? Do you espouse art for art's sake or art for life's sake (edifying works) or do you choose the middle ground?


Brenda:I write in multiple genres. I have written children’s books, memoirs, romance stories, science fiction, mystery and thrillers, self-help, and any genre I feel to write in.


Herald: As we see on Facebook you encourage others, especially young authors to emulate accomplished writers like you. You as well use literature to address societal problems. Could you tell us about the circles like Writing for Success and Prevention of Suicide?
Pertaining to meeting your objectives how do you assess this task of yours?

Brenda: You are right, I founded the group How to Write for Success to give back to the world and to celebrate my miraculous recovery. I named the group after my award-winning book, ‘How to Write for Success.’
In just over one year since I established it, it has gained over 5200 members who all love to post their work and receive a valuable comment from me. Many of them are publishing books now using the information I have uploaded on the group’s website https://howtowriteforsuccess.net and that gives me a great deal of satisfaction. Because of the growing increase in published books I opened another group named How to Write for Success Library.
My work in Literature for Suicide Prevention is recognized worldwide.
I was the driving force in the production of A SPARK OF HOPE: A Treasury of Poems for Saving Lives in February 2019.
Forty-nine poets contributed poems towards this life-saving venture.
The book topped the charts on Amazon and made Best Seller No.1 within the space of two days.
We have had reports from members that the book helped save the lives of many individuals.
I have opened a second Facebook group, Poems for Suicide Prevention to collect poems for Part II of the book which I hope to publish in 2020 and only the most suitable poems will be selected.
I believe that I should also mention that I have affiliated the group How to Write for Success with the Facebook group Motivational Strips, whose dynamic Founder is Shiju H Pallithazheth. That group has over four million visitors monthly and I am on the executive administration team to oversee operations. One year ago he appointed me as Vice-Chancellor of Motivational Strips Academy for Literary Excellence and Wisdom.


Herald: Many writers say "We are writing for the labor of love!" in light of the little or no financial returns they get. Is that why you opened a poetry circle to help such authors?

Brenda: The answer to that question is Yes because you can only become perfect at something if you keep practicing doing it. The more you write, the better you will become at it, and even make it to bestseller and award-winning status.

Herald: If you have a message to convey to young writers in particular and the global community, in general, you are welcome.

Brenda: My mantra in life is NEVER GIVE UP, and I am sending a message to all young and aspiring writers to never give up.
Sometimes success is waiting behind the next closed door.
If you do not open it, you will never fulfill that dream.
TO READ THE FULL ARTICLE CLICK HERE

Sunday 25 February 2018

WOMEN IN HORROR MONTH 2018 – AN INTERVIEW WITH BRENDA MOHAMMED BY F HOGAN



Welcome to Day 18 of Women in Horror Month 2018. We’re into the third weekend of our horror extravaganza and today I would like to introduce you to author Brenda Mohammed, memoir writer and a prolific author who writes in many genres, including dystopian, zombie fiction.


Brenda Mohammed did not choose writing as a career. It happened by chance.
She was a successful banker and after she retired from banking, moved on to Insurance where she also excelled.
She qualified for the prestigious Million Dollar Round Table six times in a row and had the privilege to attend MDRT Conferences abroad.
Those opportunities broadened her knowledge in new areas and prepared her for writing.
Her writing journey began after her bout with cancer.
She wrote ‘I am Cancer Free‘ and self-published it in June 2013 eight years after her near-death experience with cancer.
She wrote that book to tell people suffering from that disease that cancer does not have to be a death sentence.
That book [her first] was the winner of Mc Grath House Indie Book Awards in the category Non-Fiction in September 2016.
It also received a five-star review and five-star seal from Reader’s Favorite in 2017.

She traveled extensively on vacations and conferences for many years during her banking and Insurance careers, and even after retirement. She wrote six memoirs about her cancer experience, life as a banker, retirement, travel, her father’s life, and a spiritual one, all before trying her hand at fiction.
She has written eighteen books to date.
She lives on the beautiful Caribbean Island of Trinidad with her husband and is a fan of photography and art.
She donates books to children’s hospitals, national libraries, and school libraries.
Here is my interview with Brenda:

Question 1. Which horror writers do you read?

I read stories by Stephen King. He’s the master of horror.

Question 2. Describe your work, in what sub-genre do you write?

I am a multi-genre writer. I have written eighteen books.
Seven of them are for lovers of science fiction/fantasy/horror, six are personal memoirs, two are for children, two are for lovers of romance, and one is for new and aspiring authors – How to Write for Success.


Question 3. Discuss a favourite character in one of your stories or books.


Dr. Steven Sharpe is my favourite character in Revenge of Zeeka: Horror Trilogy.
One fateful day, when Steven was just seven years old, he was riding his bike home after visiting a friend who lived in a secluded part of the city. His bike broke down, and he was trying to fix it. A police jeep stopped, and the police officer asked if he could help. There was no one else in the vehicle.
Steven saw no harm in allowing a police officer to help since they are there to protect and serve. Or, so he thought. The police officer came out of the vehicle, looked at his bike, turned it over and tried to repair it. He then said that it needed to go to a bicycle shop. He offered to drive Steven home. Steven accepted the lift and never saw his home again.
The man, who turned out to be Zeeka, threatened the boy to kill his parents and brother if he ever tried to escape from him. He boasted about his police connections and Steven was fearful of him and did whatever he asked. The man could not legally adopt him and changed the boy’s name to Jason Stephens.
He sent him to medical school and he turned out to be the top medical doctor and research scientist on the island of Gosh. Zeeka tried to use him for evil means. Dr. Steven Sharpe knew all of Zeeka’s secrets.

Question 4. Show us the first paragraph of one of your short stories or novels.

“The sounds of sirens rudely awakened Raynor Sharpe from his bed. He heard screeching noises everywhere. Outside his house, people were screaming and shouting.

“What is all that commotion about?” He muttered.

He tumbled out of his bed, staggering and grappled about for his eyeglasses. He was unable to find them in the confusion in which the room was. His clothes were scattered on the floor. A bottle of wine and two wine glasses were on the bedside table. He tripped on a woman’s pair of red high-heel shoes. “What the hell? Whose shoes are these?” He scratched his head trying to recall what happened the previous night.”

Question 5. What was the first work of horror to scare you as a child?

The first horror movie I ever saw was ‘Horror of Dracula.” I was a little girl and it scared the life out of me.

Question 6. If asked to compare yourself to another horror writer, who would you say?

I have not been writing horror long enough to compare myself to any other author. I have been told, however, that my book is movie material.

Question 7. What are you working on at the moment?

At the moment I am working on a story about a serial killer. I know there are many stories about serial killers but mine will be an unusual one.



Find out more about Brenda Mohammed’s books below

All Author Website

Amazon Author Page

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instagram

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pinterest

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BookBub


Read the Horror Trilogy.


Tuesday 6 February 2018

Author Interview with Mady Joshi of AllAuthor

Brenda Mohammed, a former banker, is an award-winning, multi-genre writer and a cancer survivor.
In 2013, Brenda wrote her first book, “I am Cancer Free”, after her near death experience with cancer.
She wanted to tell the world that cancer is not a death sentence, but a battle that you have to fight and win.
I am Cancer Free was the winner in non-fiction in Mc Grath Summer Indie Book Awards 2016.
It also received a five-star rating and seal from Readers Favorite in 2017.
Read the Press Release from Readers Favorite.
Her travel opportunities, thanks to her banking job, has helped Brenda with the creative process of an author.
Her book "Travel Memoirs with Pictures: Exploring the world" is a travelogue compiling all her picturesque travels around the globe.
Brenda is blessed with a supportive family and acknowledging friends who have encouraged her throughout her life and her writing career.
Her daughter reads every book Brenda writes and gives her pointers.


Tell us a little about your hometown and your life there growing up. What did your parents do for a living?

I live in Vistabella with my husband.
It is a beautiful town in Trinidad.
Our house overlooks the ocean.
Trinidad is an island and surrounded by sea.
I did not grow up in Vistabella.
My father was a headmaster and worked all over the island at different times in his career.
As a small child, I lived in headmaster’s houses in Claxton Bay, Penal, and in Sangre Grande when he gained promotion as an Inspector of Schools. My mother was a handicraft teacher.
I wrote all about my childhood in my memoir, A Life as a Banker: A Life worth Living.

What made you decide to give up your job as a Bank Manager and pursue writing? What were your parents' reactions when they found out you wanted to write full time?

I did not give up my job as a Bank Manager. I reached the compulsory retirement age for female staff. At that time, females were allowed to retire at a much earlier age than males. I obtained a job in an Insurance Company as a Financial Advisor and continued working. I wrote my first book, “I am Cancer Free,” in 2013, after my near death experience with cancer.
I wanted to tell the world that cancer is not a death sentence. My writing career started then. My parents were not alive when I started writing.

When did you move to the Island of Trinidad and has it any way helped your creative process as an author?


I was born in Trinidad. I have had many travel opportunities with my jobs in Banking and Insurance and that has helped me with the creative process as an author.

What or who inspired the name "Zeeka" and his character? Does the name have a deeper meaning?

The Zika virus inspired the name ‘Zeeka.’ I built the story on the premise that a doctor discovered a cure for the disease but the hospital did not approve of its use. Zeeka Chronicles won Best Science Fiction Third Place in SIBA Awards 2017

Do you think it was harder or easier writing about your own life in "My Life as a Banker" as opposed to making a story up from the top of your head?

It is easier to write a true memoir than to write fiction.
With a memoir as My Life as a Banker, you already know the facts.
With non-fiction, you have to build a plot, create a story world, form characters, and many other factors have to be taken into consideration.

Have you ever got into legal trouble while researching, writing, or publishing any book?

Never.

Why did you write the book "She Cried For Me: Autobiography Of A Dog"? What were some things you hoped to achieve with this book?


When my pet dog died, I wanted to immortalize her.
The only way to do so was to write her story.
She was a dog who was badly treated by her previous owner before I adopted her.
She Cried for Me is a remarkable story for pet and dog lovers.
Proceeds from sales of the Book will go to the Animals Alive Dog Rescue Shelter, the Sanctuary referred to in the Book.

On whose life did you base the book "Memoirs of Dr. Andrew Moonir Khan" after? Of all your books, which one made you the most emotional?


Memoirs of Dr. Andrew Moonir Khan was about the life of my father. Of all my books, this book makes me the most emotional.
My father had to overcome many obstacles in his life to become a trailblazer in Education in Trinidad.
He climbed the ladder from classroom management to school principal and superintendent of schools.
Later in life, he became a Presiding Elder in his church and preached many sermons, some of which are appended to his biography.
His story is both motivational and inspiring.

We know that all a writer's books are like their children, but if you had to choose, which one would you say is your favourite?


My favourite is Zeeka Chronicles: Revenge of Zeeka. It was hard work writing the five stories in the series and compiling them into one book.
The series scored a double with Readers Favorite.
I had compiled the first three books into a trilogy called Revenge of Zeeka: Horror Trilogy.
In September 2016, I submitted the trilogy to Readers Favorite for a free review.
The book received a five-star review and five-star seal.
The following year I added two more books to the series - Zeeka’s Ghost Book 4 and Resurrection Book 5.
I compiled the five books into one book called Zeeka Chronicles.
I sent it to Readers Favorite and it received a five-star review and five-star seal.
My greatest wish is for that book to be made into a movie.

The five-book series is also available for $6.00 on Amazon.

What does your family think of your writing? Who has been your biggest source of support throughout your career?

My husband, our two children, and sisters are supportive of my writing. My daughter reads every book I write and gives me pointers.

When it comes to writing self-help books, what are some golden rules you like to follow? Where or from whom did a majority of the advice you give out in "How to Write for Success" come from?


How to Write for Success covers plotting, writing dialogue and narrative, building your story world, choosing a book title, writing the blurb, what an author should do before and after publishing, choosing categories, creating an author brand, book marketing, and most of all how to get sales and reviews.
It does not end there.
A reviewer had this to say about the book. "If you are thinking of writing a book but don't know where to start, then this book is the one for you. It's a comprehensive guide to all aspects of the process from picking your topic, deciding on your cover to how to sell your book once it's out there in the marketplace. I found many interesting facts and tips here and jotted them down as I went along. This is a book to keep and refer to on a continual basis. Well worth buying and a must-have for all writers!"
I acknowledged AllAuthor.com for its innovativeness and recommended it as one of the best website providers.
The book was on pre-order on Amazon for 0.99 cents until it was published on 1 st December 2017 when the price increased to $2.99.
It is also available in print.
To date, it has received five-star reviews and a five-star rating from Readers Favorite.
Read the Press Release

What is the best vacation you've ever been on?

I have been on several wonderful vacations and they are all detailed in my book, Travel Memoirs with Pictures. However, my very first vacation was a mega one.
It was a trip to New York, Canada, London, Germany, and Holland.
I described that trip in my book, My Life as a Banker.
That trip stands out in my mind.

Are you working on anything new? What are some new topics or stories that you want to experiment with in the future?

On November 21st, 2017 I published a free book containing exciting excerpts of all my works called Icebreakers.
The purpose of that book is to give Readers a taste of my writing.
It is available at Instafreebie and Books2Read.
I am also experimenting with other topics for fiction but those will be surprises.

Brenda's Books are available on Amazon Universal Link

Tuesday 19 December 2017

Auyhor Interview by AllAuthor with Author Brenda Mohammed


Brenda Mohammed, a former banker, is an award-winning, multi-genre writer and a cancer survivor. In 2013, Brenda wrote her first book, “I am Cancer Free”, after her near death experience with cancer. She wanted to tell the world that cancer is not a death sentence, but a battle that you have to fight and win. Her travel opportunities, thanks to her banking job, has helped Brenda with the creative process of an author. Her book "Travel Memoirs with Pictures: Exploring the world" is a travelogue compiling all her picturesque travels around the globe. Brenda is blessed with a supportive family and acknowledging friends who have encouraged her throughout her life and her writing career. Her daughter reads every book Brenda writes and gives her pointers. Follow her on Amazon.



Tell us a little about your hometown and your life there growing up. What did your parents do for a living?


I live in Vistabella with my husband.
It is a beautiful town in Trinidad. Our house overlooks the ocean.
Trinidad is an island and surrounded by sea.
I did not grow up in Vistabella.
My father was a headmaster and worked all over the island at different times in his career.
As a small child, I lived in headmaster’s houses in Claxton Bay, Penal, and in Sangre Grande when he gained promotion as an Inspector of Schools. My mother was a handicraft teacher.
I wrote all about my childhood in my memoir, A Life as a Banker: A Life Worth Living.


What made you decide to give up your job as a Bank Manager and pursue writing? What were your parents' reactions when they found out you wanted to write full time?


I did not give up my job as a Bank Manager.
I reached the compulsory retirement age for female staff.
At that time, females were allowed to retire at a much earlier age than males.
I obtained a job in an Insurance Company as a Financial Advisor and continued working.
I wrote my first book, “I am Cancer Free,” in 2013, after my near death experience with cancer.
I wanted to tell the world that cancer is not a death sentence.
My writing career started then.
My parents were not alive when I started writing.

When did you move to the Island of Trinidad and has it any way helped your creative process as an author?


I was born in Trinidad.
I have had many travel opportunities with my jobs in Banking and Insurance and that has helped me with the creative process as an author.

What or who inspired the name "Zeeka" and his character? Does the name have a deeper meaning?

The Zika virus inspired the name ‘Zeeka.’
I built the story on the premise that a doctor discovered a cure for the disease but the hospital did not approve of its use.
Zeeka Chronicles: Revenge of Zeeka won Best Science Fiction Third Place in SIBA Awards 2017.

Do you think it was harder or easier writing about your own life in "My Life as a Banker" as opposed to making a story up from the top of your head?

It is easier to write a true memoir than to write fiction.
With a memoir, you already know the facts.
With non-fiction, you have to build a plot, create a story world, form characters, and many other factors have to be taken into consideration.

Have you ever got into legal trouble while researching, writing, or publishing any book?


Never.

Why did you write the book "She Cried For Me: Autobiography Of A Dog"? What were some things you hoped to achieve with this book?



When my pet dog died, I wanted to immortalize her.
The only way to do so was to write her story.
She was a dog who was badly treated by her previous owner before I adopted her.
She Cried for Me is a remarkable story for pet and dog lovers.
Proceeds from sales of the Book will go to the Animals Alive Dog Rescue Shelter, the Sanctuary referred to in the Book.


On whose life did you base the book "Memoirs of Dr. Andrew Moonir Khan" after? Of all your books, which one made you the most emotional?


Memoirs of Dr. Andrew Moonir Khan was about the life of my father.

Of all my books, this book made me the most emotional.
My father had to overcome many obstacles in his life to become a trailblazer in Education in Trinidad.
He climbed the ladder from classroom management to school principal and superintendent of schools.
Later in life, he became a Presiding Elder in his church and preached many sermons, some of which are appended to his biography.
His story is both motivational and inspiring.


We know that all a writer's books are like their children, but if you had to choose, which one would you say is your favourite?

My favourite is Zeeka Chronicles: Revenge of Zeeka.

It was hard work writing the five stories in the series and compiling them into one book.
The series scored a double with Readers Favorite.
I had compiled the first three books into a trilogy called Revenge of Zeeka: Horror Trilogy.
In September 2016, I submitted the trilogy to Readers Favorite for a free review.
The book received a five-star review and five-star seal.
The following year I added two more books to the series - Zeeka’s Ghost Book 4 and Resurrection Book 5.
I compiled the five books into one book called Zeeka Chronicles.
I sent it to Readers Favorite and it received a five-star review and five-star seal.
My greatest wish is for that book to be made into a movie.

What does your family think of your writing? Who has been your biggest source of support throughout your career?


My husband, our two children, and sisters are supportive of my writing.
My daughter reads every book I write and gives me pointers.
My son shares almost all of my posts about my books on Facebook.



When it comes to writing self-help books, what are some golden rules you like to follow? Where or from whom did a majority of the advice you give out in "How to Write for Success" come from?



I wrote that book based on my own experiences in writing.
The book covers plotting, writing dialogue and narrative, building your story world, choosing a book title, writing the blurb, what an author should do before and after publishing, choosing categories, creating an author brand, book marketing, and most of all how to get sales and reviews.
It does not end there.

A reviewer had this to say about the book. "If you are thinking of writing a book but don't know where to start, then this book is the one for you.
It's a comprehensive guide to all aspects of the process from picking your topic, deciding on your cover to how to sell your book once it's out there in the marketplace.
I found many interesting facts and tips here and jotted them down as I went along.
This is a book to keep and refer to on a continual basis.
Well worth buying and a must-have for all writers!"
I acknowledged AllAuthor.com for its innovativeness and recommended it as one of the best website providers.
The book was on pre-order on Amazon for 0.99 cents until it was published on 1 st December 2017 when the price increased to $2.99.
It is also available in print.
To date, it has received five five-star reviews.


What is the best vacation you've ever been on?



I have been on several wonderful vacations and they are all detailed in my book, Travel Memoirs with Pictures.


However, my very first vacation was a mega one.
It was a trip to New York, Canada, London, Germany, and Holland.
I described that trip in my book, My Life as a Banker.
That trip stands out in my mind.




Are you working on anything new? What are some new topics or stories that you want to experiment with in the future?


On November 21st, 2017 I published a free book containing exciting excerpts of all my works called Icebreakers.


The purpose of that book is to give Readers a taste of my writing.
It is available FREE at Instafreebie and Books2Read.
I am also experimenting with other topics for fiction but those will be surprises.

Thursday 13 April 2017

Author Interview


Bio

Brenda Mohammed is a Trinidad and Tobago-based award-winning multi -genre writer and former Bank Manager who has written sixteen books to date. She loves to travel and is a fan of photography and art.
She is on Facebook, Twitter, and other social media.

Four of Brenda's books have received recognition.
I am Cancer Free: A Memoir was the Winner in the Category Non-Fiction in the McGrath House Indie Book Awards 2016. The book also received a five- star review and five-star seal from Readers Favorite in February 2017.
My Life as a Banker: A Life worth Living placed second in the Category Bio/Memoirs in Metamorph's Publishing Summer Indie Book Awards 2016.
Revenge of Zeeka: Horror Trilogy received a five-star review and five-star seal from Readers Favorite International on 14th September 2016.
Zeeka Chronicles was nominated for SINA Awards 2017.

Brenda willingly donates books to children's hospitals, national libraries, and school libraries.

1. What inspired you to write your book?

When I decided to write my first book, I felt that I had a good story to write – a story that will benefit others who may find themselves in a similar position in which I found myself. The name of the book is I am Cancer Free: A memoir

2. How long did it take you to write your book?


I did not start writing about my bout with cancer until after eight years. I wanted to be sure that I was indeed cancer free and could convey that message to the world. It took me about three months to write because it is not very long. I have since written much longer books than that one

3. What is one thing you would love someone to take away after reading your book?

Never give up. The doctor in Trinidad gave up on me. My husband, children, and others did not.

4. Describe your book in three words.

Inspiring, motivational, and heart –warming.

5. Who will enjoy your book the most?

Persons who have cancer or have a loved one going through that ordeal.
Incidentally, the book received a five-star review and seal from Readers Favorite in 2017.

6. What was one experience in life where you realised books had the power to make meaningful change, on either you or the world?

My father was an educator and he instilled in us from childhood the need to read books. He taught us that ‘a good education is better than gold.’
He had a huge library with books for every age, and my sisters and I spent a lot of time in there, reading. My parents had ten children and each one of them excelled in their careers and held top positions in Trinidad and Tobago and abroad.
I compiled my father’s memoirs after his death.
Memoirs of Dr.A.M.Khan: Journey of an Educator.

7. What is your favourite book?

My favorite book is Power of Positive Thinking by Norman Vincent Peale.

8. What do you think is most important to being a powerful writer?

To be a powerful writer you must know how to bring characters to life and invoke the reader’s emotion.

10. When you write, who do you envision you’re writing to?

When I write I hope that tons of persons will read my book. However, that is a pipe dream.

11. Is there anything you edited out of your book you would have liked to have seen stay, in retrospect?

Nothing I can think of.

12. Does writing energise or exhaust you, or a bit of both?

I will say a bit of both,.

13. What did you enjoy most- and least- about the process of creating your book?

Writing is easy and enjoyable, but re-reading and editing can be tedious.

14. Did you often suffer from writer’s block whilst writing? Any tips to overcome it?

It happens sometimes, but when you leave the writing for a while, take a vacation and return, your mind opens up to new ideas.

15. What common traps do you think first-time writers fall into, and how can new writers avoid them?

I think every writer will have a different experience.
We all learn by mistakes.
Mistakes will happen. Do not let them make you think that you have failed. Consider mistakes as part of the learning process.


Who is your favourite author?

Lee Child is my favorite author.

17. What about favourite films?

I like mysteries, drama, and comedy.

Connect with Brenda on her Facebook Pages

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