Interview with April Gabrielle and a giveaway

Thanks for being so generous with your time today to answer some questions about your new book, The Myth of the Broken Home.

What inspired you to write The Myth of the Broken Home?

My inspiration to write “The Myth of the Broken Home” was first ignited 16 years ago when my son was 6 years old and I was struggling through a divorce. At the time I was a graduate student studying Human Behavior and I remember reading a magazine article pertaining to the increase of divorces in America and how they produced latchkey children who were the sole contributors to social ills in our society. In another article it was stated that most African American males, growing up in the neighborhoods I came out of would not see age 21 due to gang affiliations, drugs and prison.  Society already had us pigeon holed into an existence that I was determined would not be suitable for my son. 

Today, I often receive compliments as a single mom for the way I’m raising both my son and daughter, especially considering the adversities we’ve experienced during this time. But I’m more impressed by the compliments my children receive when I’m not around.  For that I’m thankful.

Recently, it was my family, and friends who encouraged me to write, “The Myth of the Broken Home” and prior to making my final decision my children continue to be my direct inspiration. I often found myself coaching teens and advising parents from both single and dual parent households.  But it was when I witnessed signs of embarrassment in the eyes of single moms, as they were either going through a divorce or conceiving children out of wedlock and being forced to raise their children alone.  There were too many times when I observed these women continuing to wear their wedding rings long after the divorce was final, thinking it would mask the hurt they were feeling inside.  In return, it is the denial that caused them to neglect their parental duties.

Did you learn anything from writing your book and if so, what was it?

Yes, I learned what I already knew and that is that I do not consider myself to be a writer.  Writing was never a career or a hobby for me.  But I understand how simple it can be when you are writing about something you are passionate about.  After completing the book I’ve discovered what seems like thousands of people who love to write and think that writing a book is a big deal!  As you have probably noticed from reading the book I’ve always had an affinity for business and corporate America has always fascinated me.  I think this is why I’m approaching the business of self publishing as a pleasant challenge.  I’m learning so much about printing, marketing, distribution, manufacturing, networking, etc.  I’m so excited about seeing the fruits of my labor.  Now I understand why literary agents and publishers either refuse unsolicited material or request only the first 10 pages of a manuscript.

What was the hardest part in writing your book?

Writing this book has been a very tedious, arduous and exhausting process for me.  I experienced many crying days, not only because the content brought back so many memories but mainly because the editing process was gruesome.  Don’t get me wrong I am blessed to have such a wonderful, yet punctilious editor (see I learned a new word).  Nevertheless, there were many days when I wanted to give up, when I refused to pick up and look at the manuscript before and after each phase of editing. I was learning a new software program at the time and I often became frustrated while formatting the book. My editor often reminded me that writing this book was like giving birth and it was too late to turn back.  On the other hand, the most difficult part of this creation has just begun.

What book is currently on your nightstand?

I have such an eclectic personality that it’s difficult for me to just hone in on one subject, I enjoy knowledge, love learning, especially about other people’s lives..  For starters, I’m currently studying for a graduate degree in criminal justice so I have my text book “Criminal Law Today”.   In my spare time I’m reading, “In the Center of the Storm: My Years at the CIA” – George Tenet.  I have a couple of books that I’m revisiting, “Seeing the Unseen” – Joe Beam, and “Taking the Lead” – Ron Jensen and a recent gift, “The Soul of Rumi” – translated by Coleman Barks”.  I also have a couple of magazines that I enjoy reading very slowly, “Black Enterprise” and “Essence” magazines.

What do you like to do when you are not writing?

When I’m not writing I’m working at my traditional job and building my business.  I thoroughly enjoy spending time with my offspring, although my son is older and engulfed in his studies we don’t spend as much time together.  However, my daughter and I spend a lot of time with one another (she refers to as partying); she is the most refreshing, sensible and funniest young lady to be around.  Both of my children are helping me with building the business.  Whenever time permits, I take an opportunity to hang out with a friend or two and just relax.

Are you currently working on another novel?

Heck no! HA! HA! But there are a couple of books in me. This is a funny question because I vowed never to write another book.  Never! Upon completion of “The Myth of the Broken Home” I discovered so much information that was either intentionally removed to reduce costs or I just flat out forgot to include it, although I know I wrote it. So everyone is looking forward to a second edition, we will see.

GIVEAWAY

The topic of parenting can be sensitive in nature, some people can become pretty defensive when others offer advice, even when we mean well.  Our mission should always be to empower and help one another.  I get this question quite often from those who want to purchase the book for someone else. 

What is the best way to recommend a parenting book to someone without offending them?  Sign up and answer this question on the message board of The Myth of the Broken Home and we’ll enter your name in a random drawing for 1 of 5 paperback editions of The Myth of the Broken Home, courtesy of Put it on Paper Publishing.

Rules:

• Per POP’s request, only U.S. and Canada residents are eligible (they’ll ship books directly to winners)
  
• If you tweet about this giveaway, I’ll give you 2 extra entries
  
• If you become a Facebook Fan of The Myth of the Broken Home, you’ll receive 3 extra entries
  
• If you become a Twitter follower of Nobrokenhome, you’ll receive 3 extra entries
  
• Contest ends Friday, July, 16 at 11:59 p.m. PST, with winners announced via Minding Blog, Twitter, Facebook, and website of the book. 
  
• Winners will have 48 hours to reply with mailing address before alternate names are chosen.
  

Now, share your advice!