Author CeCe Dawson is an African American woman staking her claim in an industry dominated by caucasian men. Her desire is to strive for greatness and provide representation in places there is a lack of when it comes to black culture! Recently she shared with us about her journey into the field of sci-fi and about her latest book, The Chronicles of Brute Creations!
What led you into the field of science fiction?
Growing up reading was a way for me to escape my world. That began with Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings, etc. As a child, it’s not something you notice, but as an adult, I realized my beloved sci-fi and fantasy books I have grown to love, had a lack of representation. Especially in the role of the protagonist.
What do you enjoy most about writing and how has the pandemic affected you?
Writing is not just a creative outlet for me, it’s my passion. I enjoy writing the characters and giving them a voice, which helps shape their personalities and journeys within the book. The pandemic affected my mental health tremendously. I was amongst a group of people that had to venture out during the pandemic when it first hit. Writing my novel was one of the things that kept me from thinking of the worst outcomes. Now I use my psychology degree to be a mental health advocate and help my community because mental health does matter.
Tell us what led to your latest book idea and what can readers gain from it?
Well, I’ve always been a writer carrying around little composition books when I was a kid jotting down ideas, poetry, short stories you name it. My daughter and a dream led to the idea of my book. Readers can gain a sense of belonging, and insight from my book. It leaves you bonded with these diverse characters.
Tell us about the main character Cleo Hurston and in what ways does she reflect on you personally?
Like myself, Cleo just wants to know if she’s on the right path. Like many of us were told what to do, what to say, how to dress, what’s appropriate for an (African American) woman like me, and what’s considered safe and comfortable for the norms of society. Not Cleo, not I, we both like to occupy lanes that weren’t meant for us.
How many books have you published thus far?
Although I have tons of unpublished works sitting on my laptop “The Chronicles of Brute Creations will be my first published book”
What books are next on your list for publishing?
Well “The Chronicles of Brute Creations” is a trilogy so you’ll be seeing that come about at later dates, but I’m also working on a space opera”
Are you self-publishing and if so, how does it feel?
My publishing agency is Caged Bird Publishing, and it feels amazing for my work to be recognized.
What’s your way of getting past writer’s block or do you ever experience it? I get writer’s block all the time. The only way I can get past it is to mix up my routine get inspired by something I never tried, seen, or heard. Which led me to archery, ax throwing, and glassblowing.
Have you experienced much support from family and friends?
The support has been phenomenal from both family and friends, but especially from my husband.
Do you plan to turn any of your books into a film? If the opportunity presents itself absolutely. Seeing an African American woman in a lead Sci-fi film is the goal. I think we’re all ready for it, Black Panther was the perfect example of that.
Where can readers purchase your book(s)?
Readers can pre-order off Amazon right now and stay tuned for updates via my social media @cc_dawson21!
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