Ben Burgess
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
My name is Ben Burgess Jr. I've written six novels. My goal with my books is to change the world. I use my writing to make people think and improve race relations.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is titled "Mothers Vol. 1," and I wrote it to honor all mothers and show their struggles.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I do my best writing at a diner near my house. I love the staff. I love the atmosphere and can write comfortably and at peace there.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Richard Wright's "Native Son" was the first book that made me love books. After reading that, I knew I wanted to create something that would affect people the way that book affected me. My favorite author of all time is Eric Jerome Dickey. After reading his books, I knew I wanted to be an author. I've met him in person, he's mentored me, and I wouldn't be the author I am today if it weren't for him.
What are you working on now?
Now that I've completed "Mothers Vol. 1", I'm working on "Mothers Vol. 2," which will be a sort of sequel to my novel "A Father's Sacrifice: Daddy's Girl."
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I usually use twitter to promote my novels.
Which Websites you like most to promote your book
I usually use twitter, Facebook and Goodreads to promote my novels.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Develop thick skin. There will be some people who don't like your book because they don't like you. There will be some people that don't like your book because it didn't reach them the way you might've intended it to. Read all criticism. Put pride aside and look for areas where you can improve. Every book should show that you have evolved and have gotten stronger as a writer.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
To be a great writer, you must be a great reader. You should be a student of your craft, and the best way to learn is to read different authors. It's essential to see what you like and dislike from other authors to learn from them and develop your style.
What are you reading now?
When I'm writing a new novel, I try not to read anything because I don't want to be influenced by what I'm reading so right now, nothing.
What’s next for you as a writer?
My goal is to adapt my novels into movies or a streaming service series.
If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
1. Native Son- Richard Wright 2. Milk in my coffee- Eric Jerome Dickey 3. B-More Careful- Shannon Holmes 4. Who asked you- Terry McMillian