Intimate Conversation with J.M. Benjamin

Intimate Conversation with bestselling author, publisher and entrepreneur J.M. Benjamin

J.M. Benjamin is a two time Award Winning and Essence Best Selling author from Plainfield, New Jersey. In 2006, he made his presence in urban lit felt with his freshman novel Down In The Dirty. He is the author of My Manz And ‘ Em and On The Run With Love, both which he self-published. He is a motivational speaker who shares his experiences and knowledge of the streets in schools and prisons world-wide. He is also a book store owner, publisher and book distributor. His title Ride Or Die Chick is available on iTunes.com. As a contribution to his community, the youth and incarcerated & ex-offenders, J.M. Benjamin, along with colleague and friend Randy Kearse self- published a non-fiction motivational book titled From Incarceration 2 Incorporation just released.

Ella: J.M., finish this sentence for me- I am Powerful because...
I am Powerful because I did not allow my past to dictate my future. After being knocked down from making so many bad choices and decisions, I had enough strength and will power to get back up and make better ones for the embetterment of self!

Ella: J.M., where are you from? How did you start your writing journey?
I'm New Jersey breed, Plainfield. I actually started writing while incarcerated as a means of therapy and freedom of the mind to escape my present situation and surroundings. Landed a two book deal while still in federal prison. Never thought I would become a successful author, but that's the power of the pen from the pen!

Ella: What makes your books stand out and would entice a reader to pick them up?
I don't know if it makes them stand out because there are so many talented writers to compete with, but with all my books I just try to balance what it takes to make an enjoyable read, just enough street, sex, drama, violence, and a message. I try to be very descriptive, graphic and detailed in a tasteful manner to deliver a well told story, and not to sound bias but I focus on catering to female readers above all. Just ask 'em!

Ella: Ultimately, what do you want readers to gain from your books? I love them all; each received 4 stars!
When someone finishes a J.M. Benjamin read I want them to feel satisfied. I want them to feel that they've been entertained by the story and educated or enlightened on the subject that fueled the story. But mostly, I want them to look forward to the next and the next...

Ella: What would you say has been your most signifcant achievement as a writer? How did you do it?
The most significant achievement I've recieved as a writer as to date is becoming a motivational speaker. My writing opened the door for me to share my testimony and journey of change with others as a form of inspiration and motivation. It was my story behind the stories that interest the media, about how I turned a negative situation into a positive opportunity while in prison. After several interviews by T.V., radio and newspapers a platform was created and I was given an chance to have my voice heard, a voice I never even knew existed, a voice that has been and continue to be embraced through-out schools, churches, institutions and amongst my peers. For me, that's an honorable achievement.

Ella: What advice would you give a new writer?
Get behind, on the side, and in front of your product. No one can push yours better then you. Most importantly, never let anyone break your spirits. If you believe in you that's all that matters!

Ella: What new with you? What's next from J.M. Benjamin is a two time Award Winning and Essence Best Selling author?
I along with a fellow author and friend of mine Randy Kearse just released a non-fiction motivational book titled From Incarceration 2 Incorporation ( A Must Read) Jan 2009. It's our contribution to our community, the youth and the incarcerated & ex-offenders. He and I met in prison, came home, beat the odds and shared our stories, past, present and intended future. In May 09, the sequel to my Essence Best Selling novel Ride Or Die Chick will be droppin' (Ride Or Die Chick 2), then my title Heaven & Earth will follow probably in the Fall.

J.M. Benjamin can be found online at:
anewqualitypublishing.com
myspace.com/jmbenjamin_author

A New Quality Publishing
P.O.Box 589
Plainfield, NJ 07061

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