Taka Sande's Blog, page 6

November 4, 2016

Mega List of Facebook Book and Author Promotion Groups

Every author needs a platform. It is a fact that book sales increases as the author platform increase.

We have created the longest list of Facebook Book and Author Promotion Groups from which you can use for book promotion and to increase your followers.

If you know a group that is missing just let me know, and if a group on the list shuts down also let me know.

Happy book promotion!

Author Page Like Swapping

Author Like 4 Like Swap – https://www.facebook.com/authorlike4like
Authors need likes – https://www.facebook.com/groups/authorsNEEDlikes/
Best Readers/Authors ‘Like for Like’ Group – https://www.facebook.com/groups/3640093781688/
Digital Ninja Author Like For A Like – https://www.facebook.com/groups/dnmauthorslike4alike/
Like 4 Like – Groups and Pages Only – https://www.facebook.com/groups/1719064824984351/
Like-A-Thon for Writers, Authors, Publishers – https://www.facebook.com/groups/787613984642208/
Indie Author Tweet Exchange – https://www.facebook.com/groups/601914829836052/

All types of Book Promotions

Free and 99c Books Promotions

Only Kindle Books Promotions

Only Kids Books Promotion

Children’s Book Writers – https://www.facebook.com/groups/68829480316/
Books For Children – https://www.facebook.com/groups/BooksForChildren/
Children’s Books – https://www.facebook.com/groups/childrenbookclub/
Kindle Kids – https://www.facebook.com/groups/1504183273156180/

Black Author’s Book Promotion

Romance Books Only

Fifty Shades of Sexy Book Boyfriends – https://www.facebook.com/groups/561227857294568/
Fifty Shades of Sexy Paranormal Boyfriends – https://www.facebook.com/groups/13943530708144/
Romance Authors and Bloggers – https://www.facebook.com/groups/292918660746791/
Romance & Thrillers Group – https://www.facebook.com/groups/romanceandthrillersgroup/
Romance Novels Rock – https://www.facebook.com/groups/2301962956/
Romance Readers – https://www.facebook.com/groups/romancereaders/

Reviews / Review Exchange Groups

Groups for Authors with NO Promotions

Group for Author Services

Beta Readers Here – https://www.facebook.com/groups/BetaReadersHere/
Wordsmith Proofreading Services – https://www.facebook.com/WordsmithProofreadingServices

Christian Writers Groups with No promotions

Extra Facebook Groups

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Published on November 04, 2016 09:10

October 31, 2016

Author Interview – Gregory Brown

As we continue with the second phase of the Self-Publishing Africa initiative, today at It’s My Footprint (IMFP) we are joined by Greg Brown (GB) the author of The Bible Teacher’s Guide series. Greg is a humble man, a Chaplain and Professor at the Handong Global University in Pohang, South Korea and Lead Pastor of Handong International Congregation also at the Handong Global University. Greg holds a Master of Arts (MA) degree in Religion and Master of Arts (MA) degree in teaching from Trinity International University, in Deerfield, Illinois, United States, a Master of Religious Education (MRE) degree from Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia, United States, and a PhD degree in Theology from Louisiana Baptist University in in Shreveport, Louisiana. He has served over twelve years in pastoral ministry in the United States and in South Korea.

(IMFP) Welcome Greg, and thank you for spending time with us at It’s My Footprint.

(GB) Thank you. It’s my pleasure.

(IMFP) Can you start by giving our followers a brief background of yourself and where you are coming from?

(GB) Yes, I’m originally from Austin, Texas. I was a basketball player in college, and coached college basketball to help pay my way through seminary. I’ve been pastoring the last twelve years: First as the English Pastor/ Youth Pastor at a Korean Church in Chicago, and now as a Chaplain/Professor at Handong Global University and as the Lead Pastor for Handong International Congregation. I am also a Navy Reserve Chaplain with the rank of Lt. Commander. In addition, I am an indie author with twelve books published in a series called The Bible Teacher’s Guide.

(IMFP) Where do you get your ideas from?

(GB) All my books come from my sermon manuscripts which I write weekly to preach at church or from my lectures at the university.

(IMFP) Why do you write?

(GB) In 2 Timothy 2:2, Paul says, “And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others.” That’s really my goal in life, to pass on the Biblical deposit that others faithfully passed on to me, with the hope that those I teach will continue to pass it on. And hopefully, when I get to Heaven, I will hear, “Well done, good and faithful servant!” That’s the reason I write.

(IMFP) What do you find most appealing about your chosen genre?

(GB) It’s been said that Theology is the Queen of all Sciences. There is no higher endeavour that knowing God and his Word. However, with that said, knowing God through his Word brings blessings on our life and our families. That’s the great appeal of the Bible Study/Commentary/Christian Living genre.

(IMFP) How do you deal with bad reviews, rejection and criticism?

(GB) Well, as far as bad Amazon Reviews, I am typically just glad someone decided to write. Most people who enjoy your work never write a review, so even a bad one is great. In sales, having quality reviews certainly matters, but probably the most important thing is having a high quantity of reviews.

But as far as general rejection and criticism, as a pastor I have developed thick skin. Not everybody will love your writing or your preaching. And I make no claims of perfection. So at least inwardly when criticized, I can say, “I know. Lord, help me.” When the criticism is unjust, many times people can discern that as they read it. In addition, some criticism can be extremely helpful. I am a young writer (in the sense of years of publishing), and I have a lot to learn. Hopefully, critical reviews can speed up my learning process.

(IMFP) Greg, you surely have developed in your writing. Have you published yet? What are you busy with now in terms of writing?

(GB) As mentioned, I’ve published twelve books in a series titled The Bible Teacher’s Guide. Essentially, they are devotional commentaries on Bible books or topical studies. They are great for small groups, teachers preparing to teach, or individuals simply desiring to understand Scripture better. Currently, I just published a book called Ephesians: Understanding God’s Purpose for the Church, and another book will publish this winter called, Abraham: Living the Life of Faith.

(IMFP) What do you find difficult about book writing?

(GB) The most difficult part about writing is either editing or rewriting. They both are difficult. When looking at my book after an editor has gone through it, it’s easy to get discouraged. In my mind, I say to myself, “I thought it didn’t need much editing!” In addition, rewriting old sermons not originally written for publishing is extremely difficult. I have tons of writing that that I almost hope to never get to. Currently, I’m trying to focus on new studies that I initially wrote with an eye towards publishing.

(IMFP) What is your opinion on self-publishing vs traditional publishing?

(GB) Both are great models. I initially started with a hybrid traditional publisher. They were a hybrid in that they only took select books and we both invested money into my first two books. The contract included a clause that when I reached a certain number of sales, they would return my investment. However, in the end, it wasn’t a good working relationship. I left the company, taking my books, and losing my investment to self-publish. I learned a lot from that experience which I now use in self-publishing.

I tried traditional publishing one other time, but I found that not having complete control over my book was hard for me. I would much rather oversee the entire process from editing, to creating the book cover, publishing, and even marketing. So in general, I don’t think traditional publishing is for me, but I think it could be great for others, especially if it’s a big publisher with strong marketing. With that said, I might be open to trying traditional publishing again if our visions aligned and it was a great situation.

(IMFP) What advice would you give to aspiring writers?

(GB) As a Christian author, I would say write to honor God by cultivating the gift he gave you and seeking to give him pleasure. Use your writing to encourage and equip His people. If God calls you to write a blog and give it away for free, to publish and reach 10 people or to reach 10 million people, be faithful to God and trust the fruit to him.

(IMFP) If you could go back in time 12 months, what would you advise yourself?

(GB) Be Patient. There is no need to hurry. Enjoy the process of completing your projects and be balanced as you do it. Give thanks for the opportunity.

(IMFP) Who is your favorite author and why?

(GB) John MacArthur has had a tremendous effect on me spiritually and doctrinally. I’m very thankful for his ministry.

(IMFP) Do you do book reviews? What type of books do you review?

(GB) Yes, I try to stick to Christian nonfiction—preferably Bible study/Commentary/Christian Living books.

(IMFP) How do you interact with other authors? Are you a member of a book club?

(GB) I am on Goodreads in several Christian Author groups, and I’ve met most of my Christian author friends there. We update each other when our new books come out, ask each other questions, and share tips and encouragements.

(IMFP) What types of books do you normally recommend to your friends?

(GB) I love commentaries and systematic theologies.

(IMFP) What do you like to do when you’re not writing? Full-time job, pets, hobbies?

(GB) My favorite thing to do is have small group in my home with great fellowship and a good meal (hopefully my wife is cooking). Other than that, I enjoy working out, studying in coffee shops, going on dates with my wife and/or daughter, and watching the UFC and NBA.

(IMFP) Let’s talk about Greg, the man! Give us a bit of your social and family life.

(GB) I am married to one wife, Tara, and I have one daughter, Saiyah. Saiyah just turned four years old. We’ve been living in Korea for the last five years serving at Handong Global University. We love it. We love the students, the faculty, and the opportunity to serve here. Most of my family lives in Texas, the best place in the US.

(IMFP) Any final word for our followers?

(GB) Thanks for reading. Please check out The Bible Teacher’s Guide on Amazon.

(IMFP) Many thanks for this interview, Greg. Good luck with your writing.

(GB) Thanks for your time. God bless your ministry.

Gregory Brown Links and Contacts

Twitter
Facebook Profile
Gregory Brown Website
Amazon Author Page

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Published on October 31, 2016 11:15

October 22, 2016

Author Interview – Sympathy Sibanda Mazuruse

As part of the Self-Publishing Africa initiative, today at It’s My Footprint (IMFP) we are joined by Sympathy Sibanda Mazuruse (SSM) a writer, voice over artist ,poet and businesswoman whose love for humanitarian issues knows no bounds. She uses her voice to inspire others and spread love to the marginalized society’s .She is passionate about talent development as well as women empowerment.

(IMFP) Welcome Sympathy, and thank you for spending time with use at It’s My Footprint.

(SSM) It’s a great pleasure to be here.

(IMFP) Can you start by giving our followers a brief background of yourself and where you are coming from?

(SSM) I am a woman who loves life, travelling and family. I am the eldest in a family of three girls and a boy. My father trained us (the girls) from a very early age to be independent women who could do anything by ourselves, we were taught to be united and love each other. This healthy family background has really had a positive impact in my life. I was fortunate enough to marry a man whose interests match mine. We love writing; human development and making people achieve their dreams.

(IMFP) Where do you get your ideas from?

(SSM) Life is my greatest inspiration. My ideas come from watching people with a keen interest to understand what they feel, what makes them tick and what exactly makes them who they are.

I am a poet whose talent dates back to my childhood. I look at myself as a multi-talented woman. I love writing from what I observe people going through as well as what I experience.

(IMFP) Why do you write?

(SSM) I love documenting events as they happen so on one hand writing is my legacy to the unborn while on the other hand writing is my therapy and catharsis to let out steam.

(IMFP) What do you find most appealing about your chosen genre?

(SSM) Poetry fits every situation; I love this genre because I can experiment with it in so many ways. For example I have written social poetry, there was a time I wrote poems that were transformed into songs; in my new book I have written Christian poems. I just love poetry so much.

(IMFP) How do you deal with bad reviews, rejection and criticism?

(SSM) I learn from them. Naturally, I get disappointed but I then come back to myself and try to understand what needs to be changed. If it’s just ‘hate talk’ I ignore, but if it’s something I really need to learn, I then change accordingly. Criticism in whatever forms helps our brands to be known. Rejection has never broken me; I keep pushing till I reach my goals.

(IMFP) Sympathy, you surely have developed in your writing. Have you published yet? What are you busy with now in terms of writing?

(SSM) Yes I have two books published in my name. One titled ‘Matters of Life”(2009) and the recent one is a 2 in 1 anthology composed of 2 books ‘On His Bosom vs Celestial Sympathy’. I have also published a book in collaboration with my friend Catherine Magodo-Mutukwa, under my pen name Awande Ngwenya in 2015.

Currently I am busy holding school outreach programmes where I go to schools, hold mentorship talks and donate my book. I am appealing to any authors and well wishers who would like to come on board to get in touch so we can make an impact on the future generation.

(IMFP) What do you find difficult about book writing?

(SSM) When writer’s block hits! I feel so sullen when the inspiration finds a gap to escape. I’m glad for me it never lasts long, there is bound to be something that shakes me back in shape.

(IMFP) What is your opinion on self-publishing vs traditional publishing?

(SSM) Self publishing has provided an opportunity to hear so many voices that would have been choked were they to try traditional publishing. The latter trusts the names it knows yet self publishing brings with it the independence to let everyone’s voice known. We just have to guard against producing half baked cakes (cliché as it may sound), there is discipline to be practiced through getting assistance from professionals.

(IMFP) What advice would you give to aspiring writers?

(SSM) A good reader makes a good writer, so challenge yourself to read widely and train your mind to observe beyond what everyone else sees.

(IMFP) If you could go back in time 12 months, what would you advise yourself?

(SSM) Diaspora based publishers or printers are not always the best. We have talent in Zimbabwe. I would never have wasted money and time trying to get my books printed in the UK.

(IMFP) Who is your favourite author and why?

(SSM)Well…I am a wide reader and have several favourites. I would spend the whole day tring to list them here. Every book gives me a lesson different from the others, I appreciate every author.

(IMFP) Do you do book reviews? What type of books do you review?

(SSM) Yes I do…mostly poetry because it’s the area I’m comfortable with.

(IMFP) Which email lists are you subscribed to?

(SSM) Poetry international, Goodreads, Issuu, Pen America and Win-Zimbabwe.

(IMFP) How do you interact with other authors? Are you a member of a book club?

(SSM) I belong to the writer’s clinic, a brain child of renowned author Phillip Chidavaenzi and also Writers international network Zimbabwe, brainchild of talent developer Beaven Tapureta. These as well as many other social media platforms do the trick.

(IMFP) What types of books do you normally recommend to your friends?

(SSM) I encourage my friends to read widely and we share those books. We love digging out books written in n different styles but more so we love books written by Zimbabweans.

(IMFP) Let’s talk about Sympathy the lady! Give us a bit of your social and family life.

(SSM) I’m a lady who loves life and people. I am also a hopeless romantic whose choice of movies and novels mainly centers on ‘happy endings.’ I am married to a man created just for me; Takemore Mazuruse my perfect mirror. We are journalists, humanitarian workers and we run some businesses together. Some even say we look alike (laughs).

God is the center of my life and I always love to share his promises with the hopeless and downtrodden.

I love being around old people as I have learned that their wisdom is very rich and they have all these funny stories that make me so curious to keep digging about what it was like living in the past. Oh my word, I love travelling! When I travel I always carry my pen, paper and camera to capture everything as it happens.

(IMFP) Any final word for our followers?

(SSM) Life is never a rehearsal so live it purposefully.

(IMFP) Many thanks for this interview, Sympathy. Good luck with your writing.

(SSM) It was a pleasure, thank you so much.

Sympathy Sibanda Mazuruse Links and Contacts

Facebook Profile
YouTube Channel
Post on Phenomenal Woman Roundtable
LinkedIn Profile

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Published on October 22, 2016 03:54

October 19, 2016

Comment on Author Interview – John Museredzo by Liberty Paidamoyo Harinangoni

Glory be to God.

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Published on October 19, 2016 00:07

October 17, 2016

Comment on Author Interview – John Museredzo by john museredzo

That is excellent. Thank you very much.

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Published on October 17, 2016 01:10

October 15, 2016

Author Interview – John Museredzo

As part of the Self-Publishing Africa initiative, today at It’s My Footprint (IMFP) we are joined by John Museredzo (JM), a relationship expert with a bias towards the youth and family relationships, an author, a motivational speaker, a pastor, a life coach, a business consultant and blogger.

(IMFP): Welcome John, and thank you for spending time with us at It’s My Footprint.

(JM): Thank you very much and it is my pleasure to be on this platform.

(IMFP): Can you start by giving our followers a brief background of yourself?

(JM) my name is John Museredzo. I am an international motivational and conference speaker, life coach, author and consultant. I am also a pastor with Forward In Faith Ministries International; teaching Kingdom principles so that people can discover and fulfill their God-given purposes. My interactive speaking and coaching style is uniquely motivational and educational. As a conflict resolution expert I brings expedient solutions to complex people, groups and team problems. I provide people with a mindset, skills, and tools to think strategically and work collaboratively to solve problems and create opportunities in life. I have experience in lecturing and seminar presentations in NGOs, private companies, churches and Christian organizations, schools, colleges and universities on Leadership, Administration, Spiritual Maturity, Relationships and Marriage, Professional and Personal Development. I am an author of many books and articles including: The Dream in the Wilderness, In Pursuit Of The Calling, Youth, Relationships and Marriage and Destined For High Achievements.

(IMFP): What a rich back ground. Where do you get your ideas from?

(JM) My writings are inspirational and thought provoking. All of them touch life issues from a particular dimension. Writing is natural to me. I strongly believe that my ideas are from God. I also get ideas from my experiences in life and other people’s experiences. I take lessons from what life offers to us every day. I take writing as a calling not as a hobby.

(IMFP): Why do you write?

(JM): I write to inform, inspire, motivate and challenge people to discover and fulfill their God given purposes.

(IMFP): What do you find most appealing about your chosen genre?

(JM): True motivation, to me touches the soul and the spirit man. When these are in right shape then humanity can experience the success needed.

(IMFP): How do you deal with bad reviews, rejection and criticism?

(JM): I take these as a learning curve. Many people take criticism with a negative eye when they should actual take this in a positive way for the betterment of their works. After all reviews, rejection and criticism are opinions of some sort, meant to perfect your work.

(IMFP): John, you surely have developed in your writing. What are you busy with now in terms of writing?

(JM): I am doing books on Leadership, Character Development and Personal Development. These are tools for this generation and are packaged with a lot of wisdom.

(IMFP): What do you find difficult about book writing?

(JM): Writing needs a lot of concentration and imagination. Trying to be perfect is also one challenge I have encountered. In my first days of writing I have faced a lot of discouragements but I have managed to overcome that one.

(IMFP): What is your opinion on self-publishing vs traditional publishing?

(JM): Self-publishing has the advantage that the control and success of your book is in your hands. In this information and technology age; internet marketing, e-Book publishing and social networking sites have helped self-published authors get their books in front of potential readers and book buyers. Self-publishing is also cheaper in many ways. Personally traditional publishing is costly for nothing. However I have a caution for all who would go for self-publishing. Do not rush to publish your work when you are not yet ready. You need a professional editor, proof reader, layout and cover designer. Just because you are self-publishing does not call for shoddy work.

(IMFP): What advice would you give to aspiring writers?

(JM): Writing needs a lot of persistence, commitment and dedication. When an idea has come, quickly capture it before it is gone. There is also need to balance between writing as a calling and writing as a business. In writing you will face a lot of discouragements but continue writing.

(IMFP): If you could go back in time 3 years, what would you advise yourself?

(JM): I would have capitalized on the technology era. Internet has helped me in my writing in terms of advertising and distribution of my work

(IMFP): Who are your favourite authors and why?

(JM): My favourite authors are Brian Tracy and the late Myles Munroe. Their books are loaded with wisdom needed for life.

(IMFP): Do you do book reviews?

(JM) It would be my pleasure to do books reviews. The person would just have to send the soft copy and hard copy for me to do the review.

(IMFP): How do you interact with other authors? Are you a member of any author club?

(JM) I have done collaboration for a book with about 14 other authors called Success Within Reach. I have also done author coaching for free. As an Author I participate frequently on Author groups and platforms on facebook, tweeter, blogs and online magazines.

(IMFP): Which books can you recommend to a friend?

(JM): All books by Myles Munroe and Brian Tracy.

(IMFP): Let’s talk about John the m a n! Give us a bit of your social and family life.

(JM): John Museredzo a family man born in a family of 5 boys and 3 girls. I am married to Barbra and we are blessed with 3 children (2 boys and one girl.) I love gardening and also doing adventure trips.

(IMFP): Any final word for your followers?

(JM): I want to encourage my followers to keep supporting my work. Your feedback is very much appreciated. You are great people.

(IMFP) : Many thanks for this interview, John. Good luck with your writing.

(JM): Be blessed for the opportunity you afforded me.

John Museredzo Links and Contacts

John Museredzo Official Blog
John Museredzo Facebook Profile
John Museredzo Facebook Page
Motivate Business World International Facebook Page
Phone Number: +263 77 512 7589
Email: [email protected]
Twitter; @johnpastor1977
LinkedIn
Google+

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Published on October 15, 2016 06:11

October 13, 2016

Author Interview – Jurgen Troy Namupira

As part of the Self-Publishing Africa initiative, today at It’s My Footprint (IMFP) we are joined by Jurgen Troy Namupira (JTN) a young enthusiastic boy aged 20. Born in Harare but grew up and attended school in primary and secondary school. He now lives in Cape Town, South Africa.

(IMFP) Welcome Jurgen, and thank you for spending time with us at It’s My Footprint.

(JTN) Thank you very much. It’s a pleasure being on this show.

(IMFP) Can you start by giving our followers a brief background of yourself and where you are coming from?

(JTN) Okay, Jurgen is a boy who loves writing from the heart. Currently I am based in Cape Town, South Africa where I am studying electronics.

I love working with vulnerable individuals because the world despises them one way or the other. Most of my stories and poems are centred on these people. Over the years I have been writing short stories and poems. These have been influenced by the environments I have lived in, in which I have a lot happening.

I have also worked with the Chegutu (Zimbabwe) Junior Council as the Junior Director of Health and Housing which has also compelled me into writing about the vulnerable parties.

As of now my work is spread over Facebook and hoping to publish an anthology in the near future.

(IMFP) Where do you get your ideas from?

(JTN) I would say human behaviour is the integral source of my ideas. The way people interact daily, opens up possible characters as I write. When I see people every day, I see characters in a script.

(IMFP) Why do you write?

(JTN) There are messages that I believe should be spread all over the world. Writing is the best way I can reach a greater population and be able to spread the message. People really need to appreciate that some ideas they preach are really necessary. You see, there are people who always make noise about ideologies like peace, equality e.t.c but they never practice their statements.

(IMFP) What do you find most appealing about your chosen genre?

(JTN) Advocative writing is almost if not the best way of writing. We become the voice of the voiceless that are not able to air out their opinions to the world.

(IMFP) How do you deal with bad reviews, rejection and criticism?

(JTN) Actually I appreciate and acknowledge bad reviews and rejection as constructive criticism. It allows me to return to my work and look for areas that require developing and rectify errors.

(IMFP) Jurgen, you surely have developed in your writing. What are you busy with now in terms of writing?

(JTN) Currently I am working on a short story titled “The Enchanting Power of Song”. This is derived from a poem I wrote some time back with the same title. This would be my first work to publish and I hope things would flow smoothly.

(IMFP) What do you find difficult about book writing?

(JTN) Book writing calls for patience and passion. The most difficult part is bringing your ideas together such that you make sense to your readers. The other is getting published. This has been the limiting force to me as a writer over the years. However, through interaction with fellow writers I am getting to the end of the tunnel.

(IMFP) What is your opinion on self-publishing vs traditional publishing?

(JTN) From a personal perspective self-publishing is commendable. It saves one from probable disappointments from greedy and selfish counterparts who tend to elope with one’s work. I have a co-writer who I work with, he has been crying foul because someone was to edit his work but disappeared in the unknown world. Currently we do not know whether or not the book has already been published under someone’s name. So you see working on your stuff is better rather than crying in the end.

(IMFP) What advice would you give to aspiring writers?

(JTN) If you feel that you can write, then do not waste time. Most of the times you would feel you are not worthy of being read but that idea you are holding within can bring change in this global village.

(IMFP) If you could go back in time 12 months, what would you advise yourself?

(JTN) Well, there is quite a lot. However, the greatest advice I would give myself is “Stand up and challenge the world. If some people did it nothing can stop you from achieving the goals.”

(IMFP) Who is your favorite author and why?

(JTN) My favorite author is the late Alexander Kanengoni. Mr Kanengoni was an admirable writer who wrote with passion and excellence. Reading his work was like looking into life through a mirror. His work flowed smoothly and always attracted the reader to keep focused.

(IMFP) Do you do book reviews? What type of books do you review?

(JTN) Yes. I have not done any public reviews but I take on those that focus on the problems being faced in the world.

(IMFP) How do you interact with other authors? Are you a member of a book club?

(JTN) We interact via Whatsapp groups and Facebook pages. On these platforms we share Ideas on how best we can improve our work.

(IMFP)What types of books do you normally recommend to your friends?

(JTN) Detective novels, advocative novels and human behavior.

(IMFP) Let’s talk about Jurgen the man! Give us a bit of your social and family life.

(JTN) Well, Jurgen’s life is based on Christian morals. I am not that kind you could call anti social but I rarely say much around people. However, I like debating when there is a topic which people seem to be failing to understand. I understand that in any debate we disagree to agree which my friend and I call constructive arguments. I do not like it when the public takes advantage of those who are vulnerable and exploit them.

(IMFP) Any final word for our followers?

(JTN) Always make the choice to take a chance if you want anything to change in this world. Do not wait until it is too late to showcase your talents. Rather you face the challenges until you overcome than looking down upon yourself. Anyone can be someone in this world especially through writing.

(IMFP)Many thanks for this interview, Jurgen. Good luck with your writing.

(JTN) Thanks to you too. It has been nice sharing with you.

Jurgen Troy Namupira Links and Contacts

Facebook Profile

Facebook Page: Troy Stories And Poems

Facebook Page: Jurgen ‘Aka’ Troy Namps

Google+

Twitter;- @JurgenNamupira

Email; [email protected]

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Published on October 13, 2016 05:18

October 12, 2016

Author Interview – Munyaradzi Gunduza

As part of the Self-Publishing Africa initiative, today at It’s My Footprint (IMFP) we are joined by Munyaradzi Gunduza (MG) a Zimbabwean young writer who started writing at the age of 21. He pursued his academic studies at the University of Zimbabwe where he graduated with Bachelor of Arts General, Special Hons in Political Science and Administration and Masters in Public Administration.

(IMFP) Welcome Munyaradzi, and thank you for spending time with us at It’s My Footprint.

(MG) Thank you.

(IMFP) Can you start by giving our followers a brief background of yourself and where you are coming from?

(MG) I was born in the year 1992 in Mashonaland East Province in Zimbabwe. I started writing when I was still at High School in Harare around 2009-11. Currently I am living in Harare, Zimbabwe where I am working at Secondary Book Press as an editor for languages.

(IMFP) Where do you get your ideas from?

(MG) This is an inborn thing that I just discovered in my blood. Much inspiration though is drawn from such great writers as Shimmer Chinodya, T.K. Tsodzo among others.

(IMFP) Why do you write?

(MG) I always want to see the Zimbabwean writing fraternity occupying the world space and becoming a better place through seeding positive thoughts among the young and the old. Also to contribute to the growing of ideas in the understanding of Zimbabwean local languages.

(IMFP) What do you find most appealing about your chosen genre?

(MG) People like teachers, students and other readers who did not fully understand the relevance of literature to the modern day society. That’s why I decide to venture into literature, imparting skills and growing literature itself.

(IMFP) How do you deal with bad reviews, rejection and criticism?

(MG) Somehow I ask myself the reason behind rejection and criticism and try to rectify the weaknesses if am wrong. But in the event that am not the one who is on the wrong side I just ignore negative and unconstructive criticism and move on with my writing career.

(IMFP) Munyaradzi, you surely have developed in your writing. What are you busy with now in terms of writing?

(MG) For the past two weeks I have been working on two books that we are going to launch in a couple of weeks to come. These are poetry anthologies written in Shona by different poets across the country. Now am working on a Shona textbook that helps Shona students studying literature at Ordinary level to equip them with the relevant skills of its appreciation.

(IMFP) What do you find difficult about book writing?

(MG) Funding, piracy, and market distribution, the erosion of reading culture among other reasons are becoming problematic in the Zimbabwean book industry.

(IMFP) What is your opinion on self-publishing vs traditional publishing?

(MG) From my experience as an author and publisher I learnt that self-publishing is good if properly implemented and well executed compared to the royalties contract publishing because the author will be passive in his/her work. Traditional publishing was more suppressive to writers in my own opinion.

(IMFP) What advice would you give to aspiring writers?

(MG) They should work hard and read hard because serious readers are great writers. No two ways about it.

(IMFP) If you could go back in time 12 months, what would you advise yourself?

(MG) 100% dependent on writing and well known writers all over across the world.

(IMFP) Who is your favourite author and why?

(MG) T.K. Tsodzo because he is both a fiction and non-fiction writers at the same time just like myself.

(IMFP) Do you do book reviews? What type of books do you review?

(MG) Yes I do, that’s my full time job which is earning me a living today. I review Shona and English literature books (fiction).

(IMFP) Which email lists are you subscribed to?

(MG) Zimpapers

(IMFP) How do you interact with other authors? Are you a member of a book club?

(MG) Usually I chat with other writers through writers workshops, Book fairs, book launches etc. Yes am a member.

(IMFP) What types of books do you normally recommend to your friends?

(MG) The Song of Time Poetry and Short Stories, Zimbabwean Poetry Reignited, Harvest of Thorns etc.

(IMFP) Let’s talk about Munyaradzi the man! Give us a bit of your social and family life.

(MG) Usually I do not want to talk about a social life because I live a writing life. Of course am not married, still single and live with my family of four members; mum and brothers.

(IMFP) Any final word for our followers?

(MG) Please keep on doing whatever you are doing that makes your life brilliant ad don’t lose focus.

(IMFP) Many thanks for this interview, Munyaradzi. Good luck with your writing.

(MG) Thank you!

Munyaradzi Gunduza Links and Contacts

Phone Number: +263 772 610 360,

Email; [email protected]

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Published on October 12, 2016 02:29

October 8, 2016

Author Interview – Baz Bhasera

As part of the Self-Publishing Africa initiative, today at It’s My Footprint (IMFP) we are joined by Baz Bhasera (BB) a Pastor and leadership coach. Bazil is a passionate writer and teacher. He sits in the office of training coordinator for the Baptist Union of Zimbabwe where he focuses on education and leadership development.

(IMFP) Welcome Baz, and thank you for spending time with use at It’s My Footprint.

(BB) Thank you for having me, it’s my pleasure.

(IMFP) Can you start by giving our followers a brief background of yourself and where you are coming from?

(BB) I am a Harare boy, born and bred. I come from a large family and have always been a keen participant of things like, debate, public speaking and toastmasters. I attended Churchill Boys High School and Harare Theological College. I became a leadership coach at a Christian camp almost 12 years ago, and felt the calling to go for full time pastoral ministry after some years. I now live in Kadoma with my two sons and pastor at a church there.

(IMFP) Where do you get your ideas from?

(BB) I am a lover of education, I believe that we always have room to develop ourselves further as individuals and must affect the same growth in others. I think everything else I do is an outward expression of that. Whether I’m teaching, writing or preaching. I am inspired by the bible mainly. It affects my worldview concerning all other matters of life. I’m also inspired by my own experiences, and the experiences of others who have done amazing things in the name of social concern.

(IMFP) Why do you write?

(BB) I write to affect other people with the love of Christ first of all. As I share my own experiences and inspiration, my prayer is that someone out there may relate and be set free.

Secondly I write to express myself. To share my unique view points and character with the world through writing is one of the ways I find to be most revealing of my inner thoughts. And I believe I have something to bring to the table that says “I was here” long after I’m gone.

(IMFP) What do you find most appealing about your chosen genre?

(BB) I think the best thing about my style of writing is that it is like having a conversation with another person. I write as I would speak. Even though imaginative expression has its place in the written arts, debate and discussion pulls a train of much needed sober and direct communication. As a teacher, I find this style effective at attacking the core issues of life.

(IMFP) How do you deal with bad reviews, rejection and criticism?

(BB) I embrace it. I would rather learn something from other people who may have a different viewpoint from mine, than assume that I know it all. As I always say to people “I am always aware of the possibility that I could be wrong about something”. So when I write, I don’t do it to merely show people what I know, but that through what I have shared people can see how much I don’t know as well. This will allow them a chance to educate me and that may come in the form of criticism.

(IMFP) Baz, you surely have developed in your writing. What are you busy with now in terms of writing?

(BB) I am currently working on a third manuscript. The book is called Divine Microscope. It is a surgical approach to Zimbabwean cultural norms and traditions juxtaposed with a Christian way of life. A lot of research but it is a work I feel is very much needed. It answers questions like “is there anything wrong with keeping our traditional way of life after we have embraced Christianity, if so at which points is there conflict?”

(IMFP) What do you find difficult about book writing?

(BB) Firstly I would have to say finding time to write. With so many other “have to dos” it is difficult to find a moment to sit in front of that keyboard sometimes.

Secondly: The editing process is by far the most difficult. It’s easy to splash all your thoughts onto paper. But making them flow into a logical sequence that your readers can follow easily and understand is not as simple. Even before I take my book to the editor, the initial run through that I do myself can be very difficult, in fact at this point that the work of writing a book is most tedious and laborious.

(IMFP) What is your opinion on self-publishing vs traditional publishing?

(BB) I would have to say that I found self-publishing challenging but with an upside. The challenge is that I had to do every process myself and fund it using my own means. This is something that traditional publishing may take off the shoulders of writers. But I don’t regret all the knowledge I gained as I went along. I now know the whole process and have a unique chance to help others who are trying to ply the same route. It’s also good that as much as you have to finance yourself, you also get to control your income as you sell your books personally, as opposed to getting royalties from the publisher after their deductions.

(IMFP) What advice would you give to aspiring writers?

(BB) Don’t think about writing, start writing!

(IMFP) If you could go back in time 12 months, what would you advise yourself?

(BB) I would definitely say “Don’t procrastinate, and don’t rush through your work. Take time to produce the best work you can. It’s not over after you finish writing the book, that’s when all the work starts!”

(IMFP) Who is your favourite author and why?

(BB) John Eldredge.

I love how he writes in very simple language even though he deals with very complicated life issues. He gives a lot of himself in his work and I find that makes it easy for me to relate to him as a person before I start getting impressed by huge insights.

(IMFP) Do you do book reviews? What type of books do you review?

(BB) Not really. I’ve never done a proper book review. But I own a bookstore, and opened a Facebook page for it. As a marketing strategy, I would write short reviews of the books and post them, just to get some insight into what customers could find in the shop. These are mainly Christian books.

(IMFP) Which email lists are you subscribed to?

(BB) I am on Theology for Today, church leaders.com, Desiring God, Freedom with Writing, Westbow Press and Coursera, amongst many others.

(IMFP) How do you interact with other authors? Are you a member of a book club?

(BB) I am on a WhatsApp group “Writers Clinic”. There are about 256 local authors on this platform. The workshops and discussions on this forum have been invaluable to my growth. I am also on the writers group on Facebook, apart from that I am not involved in any clubs.

(IMFP) What types of books do you normally recommend to your friends?

(BB) Christian Inspirational books.

(IMFP) Let’s talk about Baz the man! Give us a bit of your social and family life.

(BB) I am 36 year old widower. I have two sons, Kristian and Kenton. I am a lover of music, apart from writing you will find me playing my guitar, writing music or listening to it. I lead worship at church and I play bagpipes as well. I love hanging out with friends and spending family time. I have a very strong passion for outdoors and camping and travel a lot.

(IMFP) Any final word for our followers?

(BB) We were all created for something that is much greater than self-preservation. Whatever gifts you have, identify them, develop them and unleash them upon the world with passion and conviction. Because the change the world is waiting for, may yet lie in your efforts. So join in the fight, speak your mind in the conversation, and make you splash on the portrait. Write your sentence in the story and leave your own page in the histories.

(IMFP) Many thanks for this interview, Baz. Good luck with your writing.

(BB) Thank you!

Baz Bhasera Links

Mindhunter blog
Facebook Profile
Goodreads
LinkedIn
Google+
Youtube

Baz Bhasera