WEEK WITH AN AUTHOR - INTERVIEW WITH DELL BANKS & GIVEAWAY of Shady!

Dell Banks Interview

First of all, I would like to thank you Dell for the opportunity to interview you for Black Diamond’s Book Reviews!  I really think it is important to do author interviews.  People go out and read and review the books, but they don’t necessarily know much about the author.  Interviews give the readers a chance to find out more about the author, and I think it is more likely that a reader will develop some kind of connection to the author and be more likely to follow that author and read upcoming books!

Could you tell me a little about yourself?

I’m a dedicated father. I enjoy writing, bowling and spending time with my family. I attended Wayne State University in Detroit where I studied Journalism.

When did you start writing and how did you get started?

I started writing over five years ago. I’ve always written poems and short stories. But, about 3 years ago, I challenged myself to complete a full length novel. And here we are three years later, with a complete “Best- Selling” novel.

What kind of books you like to write?

Urban Contemporary

Do you have any rituals that you use when you are writing?

Yes, I dedicate an entire day to one character. I usually start with writing the ending first, that way I have a clear path to my destination. I call it my GPS for writing a book.

What are you reading now?

I recently read Show Stoppah by Thomas Slater, next up is Pimp by Ice

Berg Slim.

What are some of your favorite books and authors?  

Ashley & Jaquavis- The Cartel series

Deja King

Carl Weber- The Choir Director

Eric Jerome

Dwayne Joseph

Has writing your own book changed the way that you read?

Yes!!! Now, when I read I’m looking more for the connection, the plot and the overall message of the book. Before penning my own novel I would read for entertainment, now I’m more concerned about the theme and the relevancy of the book.

What is a typical day in your life like?

Write…Write…and write so more. If I’m not working on a new book then I’m working on a stage production. I’m a playwright as well as an Author/Publisher, so the writing never stops. I think I even write while I sleep.

Did you know what you wanted the title of the book to be?  How involved were in choosing the name of the book?

At the start of the book, I had no idea what the title would be, but overtime the title revealed itself. With all of the Shady acts that took place in the book, it would’ve been a huge mistake not to title the book, Shady.

Are there other books you love or writers you admire that are from your local area?

Ashley & Jaquavis and debut author, Thomas Slater.

Who was your favorite character to write, and why did you like that character?

My favorite character to write would have to be Sequoia, she’s very comical and say whatever is on her mind.

Did you have to do much research when working on SHADY? If so, do you tend to write first or research first?

I didn’t have to do that much research.

As a published author, what’s been the biggest surprise about life after the publication of your first book?

The response from my readers has been unbelievable, Shady had impacted more people than I expected.

What’s next for you?

The follow-up to Shady, which is slated for Fall 2011.

What three artists would I find in your Ipod or CD player?

R.Kelly, Ricky Dillard, and Chris Brown

If I came to your home and looked in your refrigerator what would I find?

Cookie Dough, Orange Juice, Cinnamon Rolls, and more unhealthy junk!!!

What famous person do other people tell you that you most look like?

Robert Traylor (God rest his soul)

What is the one thing about yourself that others would be shocked to know?

I’m 6ft5!

Choose a book title for the story of your life.

Never a Dull Moment

Thank you so much Dell for being a part of Week With An Author and letting me interview you.  I hope by now more people have been able to see who you are and what Shady is all about and it has sparked a lot of interest!  I definitely was shocked to hear that you are 6ft5, and Dwayne Joseph is also one of my favorite authors too (besides you of course).  Also, it's very cool that you come from my home state of Michigan!

GIVEAWAY

The only requirement for this is you need to connect in some way with Dell Banks.  

Here is where you can find him:

Twitter

Facebook

So either follow him on Twitter or Facebook (or both!) and either Facebook or tweet him to let him know that you stopped by Black Diamond's Book Reviews.  I would also appreciate if you would follow my blog!

Once you follow Dell, please post the link to your tweet or facebook message or let me know where I can find it.  Also, please give me your e-mail address.

Winner will be announced tomorrow!

Also, please stop by tomorrow for another giveaway!

© 2011, Cheryl of Black Diamond's Book Reviews. All Rights Reserved. If you reading this on a site other than, Black Diamond's Book Reviews, Urban Image Magazine, or Cheryl's feed, be aware that this post has been stolen and is used without permission.