by Cyrus Webb
It can easily be said that 2022 was the year that bestselling author Felicia Brookins shined brightly for the world to see. She was recognized not just for her writing ability; she also continued her mission to inspire and motivate others through her programs and introducing her new stage play.
Over the years I have seen her rise and thrive, getting much-deserved attention for her beloved character Sister Nadeen while also showcasing the talents of others.
In this wide-ranging interview we discuss the year that was 2022 and more.
Felicia, first of all congratulations on another great year. What is it like to look back on all you have done in 2022?
It is indeed humbling. I look back and see all that God has allowed me to accomplish and I am grateful for it.
Your gift of storytelling is definitely making room for you. When did you realize that gift?
I would say I realized this wonderful gift in 2011 when I began writing the script for my very first stageplay, ‘What About The Children?’
Sister Nadeen’s Ways is how many of us got to know. Where did the idea come from?
The main character came from my viewpoint as a child and my experiences as a child coming up among individuals that I now know had the ‘image’ of God but not his ‘likeness.’ Though it is a fictional piece, it has many truths woven within the pages.
You have also been able to do great things with your platform like the annual Prison to Pens event. Tell our readers about it.
Prison To Pens is truly an inspirational gift given to me from above. It is a virtual literary event that gives a voice to previously incarcerated individuals that have written books, spoken word poetry, poems and other literary pieces to help them freely express their experience and to help with their rehabilitative and restorative process as they acclimate to being outside of four walls and away from the experience of once being incarcerated. They share how writing has helped them and how it has evolved for them into community activism and community programs for improvement in their lives and the lives of others.
Because of what you do you have reached people around the world. How does that feel to see how people have responded to what you have achieved?
It gives me a feeling of well-being and accomplishment. I am happy to be a help to others and be a part of their journey to reach the goals and dreams they have set for themselves. It keeps me grounded by always reminding me that I once was that person.
This year we have also seen you prepare for your stage play. Tell us about it.
‘The Brownie: An Unforgettable Trip’ is a production that I believe will cause individuals to look in the mirror at themselves and their spiritual walk. It is a funny, thought-provoking, tense, edge of your chair story of a group of church members that think they have it all together when it comes to entering the Kingdom one day. They believe they are truly on their way with their works and deeds for the church. This includes the Pastor. In order to strengthen their bond, they all go on a church retreat one weekend expecting to come back ready to do even more work for the Kingdom. Little do they know this trip will be one they will indeed never forget, and the outcome will have eternal consequences.
I’ve personally seen what you’ve done to encourage aspiring authors, too. What advice do you normally give those starting out on their writing journey?
When it comes to aspiring authors, I normally start out by advising them to just get it all out on paper. Write all their thoughts down for the story they want to tell and then go back and begin to work on the order of your story. I also advise them to not focus so much on starting at page one, it is okay to write your ending first if you know what it is. Nothing is in stone when it comes to how you put your story down on paper. Next, I advise them to begin putting the word out about their upcoming book. This allows everyone to get excited about their upcoming book and it gives them encouragement to continue with the process.
I’m always curious about success for those I talk to. What does success mean for you today? Success for me is when someone meets me or reaches out to me and tells me that I inspire them. That means volumes to me. It says I am producing hope and encouragement and people so need that in their lives.
Thanks again for the time, Felicia. We are so proud of you. How can our readers stay connected with you?
It is always my pleasure to talk with you, Cyrus. Your amazing and supportive group of followers can connect with me on Facebook at: @BookAuthorFeliciaB, Twitter: FeliciaBrookin4, or via email : AuthorFeliciaBrookins@gmail.com.
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