Q: First tell us something about yourself.
Antoinette Chanel is a retired English professor, education specialist, and author who writes children’s books and non-fiction mental health books for adults. She is also the founder of Feathered Press Indie Publisher, a publishing company.
Q: How and when did your journey start as a writer?
My journey began when I won a poetry contest in the 5th grade. Our local football team was going to the Super Bowl for the first time ever, and the city was excited. As the contest winner, I got to read my poem over my school’s PA system. I can remember my teacher telling my classmates that I could help them write poems for a later assignment because I was good at it, and the label sort of stuck.
Q: When did you write your first story? Is it published or not?
The first children’s book I ever wrote was The Land of California, and I published it through StoryJumper. I didn’t know anything about publishing books, but I wanted to make something for my kids.
Q: Tell us something more about your books.
After The Land of California, I published A Book for Black Girls, a love note to young Black girls filled with messages I wish I could have heard when I was a child. I consider Selfless to be a follow up to A Book for Black Girls because it features a Black boy as the protagonist.
Q: How did these stories and characters come to your mind?
I’m inspired by personal experiences and the messages I’d like to communicate to young people. If we want a more inspired, creative, critically thinking future, we have to show today’s youth all of those virtues.
Q: Do you want to leave any message for your readers?
Never stop shining. This world needs your bright light, so do not be discouraged.
