In The Spotlight Today: Shundilyn Smith!

Tell me about yourself! How old are you, and where are you from?

Hello, my name is Shundilyn (Shawn-duh-Lynn) smith and I am originally from Oakland, CA. I come from a single parent household and I am the only child. I migrated to Sacramento in 2009 to attend high school. I now go to CSUS, pursuing a master's degree in Rehabilitation counseling.

Give us a summary of your book!

My book is pretty much me channeling all of my experiences (hurt, triumph, or witnessing things) and letting them flow poetically. Originally it was to get things off of my chest and express myself recreational, but over time it just… grew.

What inspired you to write this book?

My inspiration came from my mother, and my experiences. Without my mother believing in me and reassuring me that my testimonies, and feelings were great enough to be shared, I probably would have never pursued the author avenue. So thank you mom!

Now that I believe in myself the way my mother does me, I am now always looking for opportunities to share my words with others, because it can help someone, and it has. Over the last 4 months so many people have reached out and let me know how much of an inspiration I have been to them. This is what motivates me now.

If you could pick one song to describe this book, what would it be?

It would be “Won’t he do it” by Koryn Hawthorne. What she sings about in this song was literally my battle with writing and publishing my own book. So many times I wanted to quit or wanted to believe the negative things people have spoke into my life, but God always turns it around for me! Won’t he do it?!

Have you written any fiction novels as well? If not, would you and what genre?

I have not. If I did pursue a career in writing fictional novels it would definitely be romance! I am in love with love.

What are two of your favorite books? Least favorite?

Of course one of my favorite books would be mine “A Peace of Me”. Another book would have to be 50 shades of grey. I currently do not have a least favorite book.

Do you have any other hobbies, or businesses that you would like to share?

Besides writing, I perform my poetry at a lot of open mic events. I am also in the process of creating a website. On this website you will be able to find book resources, tips on how to publish and write your own book and classes as well (marketing, motivational speaking, etc.).

Upcoming Giveaways?

Yes! June 8th I will be in Atlanta at the Black Authors #Litcrawl. I will have a table set up with book deals and promotions. Come out and support!

Post your social media usernames!

My name on Facebook is Shundilyn Smith

IG: @_suckafreeee

Anything else you would like to share?

I am very grateful for this opportunity! Please let me be an example to someone, that anything you set your mind to, you CAN do it! Believe in yourself!

Check out her book, available on amazon! https://www.amazon.com/Peace-Me-Shundilyn-Smith-ebook/dp/B07NC8L97Q/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=

Visit the submission page to book your feature!