Suzette D. Harrison
Author Interview - Suzette D. Harrison
Author of The Dust Bowl Orphans
The Dust Bowl Orphans is my 11th novel, but only my 2nd dual timeline novel. It is a combination of historical and contemporary narratives that run side-by-side like parallel trains that eventually intersect. It is a magnificent tale of family torn apart and the driving force of spirit and love that brings them together again.
Author I draw inspiration from: Life. I'm quiet and naturally introverted and introspective. That allows me to be observant and to take in what happens around me. I can be inspired by a conversation, something overheard; a scene on TV. But lately, I've found myself being increasingly inspired by time spent in prayer, meditation, and contemplation.
Favorite place to read a book: I love to read at the end of the day in bed. It helps me unwind and relax.
Book character I’d like to be stuck in an elevator with: King Tremaine from Guy Johnson's Standing at the Scratch Line. If you read it, you'll understand why.
The moment I knew I wanted to become an author: I wrote poetry from first grade through college; and even had some pieces published. But the moment I knew I wanted to be an author was after reading Dr. Maya Angelou's I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings a second time. I was experiencing deep darkness in my life that was paralyzing. It lasted several months until I re-read "Caged Bird..." When finished, I closed the covers of the book and the darkness instantly broke. I was awed and overwhelmed by the power of literature and decided I wanted to offer that same freedom and healing to others.
Hardback, paperback, ebook or audiobook: Sorry not sorry, but I'm an old school book fanatic, meaning I have to hold those pages in my hands. My preferences in order are: paperback, hardback, ebook, audiobook.
The last book I read: Blindsided by Trice Hickman
Pen & paper or computer: Both. I usually start a book with mere bullet points jotted down on paper. However, when it comes time to let it go and let it flow, I have to have my computer!
Book character I think I’d be best friends with: Yazmeen Williams from my novel Basketball & Ballet. She's a laid back, cool and calm kind of sista with deadpan humor. We'd gel real well.
If I weren’t an author, I’d be a: A jazz-influenced gospel singer.
Favorite decade in fashion history: 1930s. I love old black-and-white photos and seeing how our ancestors dressed to the nines just to go outside. They were classy and sophisticated and oh so put together!
Place I’d most like to travel: Fiji or Cote d'Ivoire
My signature drink: Ice cold water with lemon, or cucumber and mint. I know, I know. It's boring. But I'm hydrated.
Favorite artist: Kadir Nelson and Thomas Blackshear
Number one on my bucket list: Honestly, I don't have a bucket list but I'm not inspired to create one.
Anything else you'd like to add: I love connecting with readers and am available for virtual book discussions! So, feel free to reach out to me.
Find more from the author:
https://www.facebook.com/sdhbooks
https://www.instagram.com/suzetteharrison2200
Newsletter Sign-Up: https://www.sdhbooks.com/
Author Bio: Award-winning author Suzette D. Harrison prefers happy endings, but loves creating flawed characters and storylines with intricate layers and depth, offering readers unexpected plot twists. A wife and mother who holds a culinary degree in Pastry & Baking, Suzette is currently cooking up her next novel . . . in between batches of cookies.