Author Janet Autherine hails from Jamaica and uses her early years in her homeland as inspiration for her latest book “Wild Heart, Peaceful Soul“, a book of poetry. It is a deep and gritty, fresh and robust look at the thrill of loving unconditionally, as well as the mental and physical toll that it takes when peace and harmony are sometimes lost in the process.
We had a chance to speak with Janet Autherine as part of our Author Spotlight Series. Get to know Janet with our interview below and support her by purchasing her wonderful book of poetry on Amazon.com.
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Wild Heart, Peaceful Soul Poetry Book Available on Amazon
What inspired you to become a writer?
I can’t remember a time when I wasn’t writing. As an introvert, I always felt more comfortable writing my thoughts instead of speaking them. Poetry writing came as a surprise to me. I was surprised that I had so many thoughts and emotions to pour into the poetry.
Because I grew up in a household where we didn’t easily express our emotions, combined with years of “just the facts” legal training, I have never been one to pour my heart out so I was shocked at how easily the emotions flowed from my heart to the page. Whether I am writing for children or for adults, my writing aims to be inspirational. Affirming or inspiring others is something that I love to do so I feel very blessed to be able to do so through writing.
Your favorite author & why
My favorite author is Dr. Maya Angelou. She lays her soul bare on the pages and writes her deepest and darkest truth, as well as powerful stories that take us on a journey and inspire us to be our best selves.
Describe your book in 30 words or less
Wild Heart, Peaceful Soul is a deep and gritty look at the thrill of loving unconditionally, as well as the mental and physical toll that it takes when peace and harmony are sometimes lost in the process. It delves into the vulnerable hearts of women from around the world.
Why should we read it?
Wild Heart, Peaceful Soul provides inspiration to those who love deeply, sometimes fall hard but always lead with their hearts. It feels like you are having a cozy conversation with your best friend who is telling her deepest and darkest secrets.
List of other books you’ve written (if applicable)
My first book was Growing into Greatness with God: 7 Paths for Greatness for our sons and daughters, which teaches kids to recognize the greatness they were born with and to nourish the love, faith, courage, leadership, happiness, gratitude, and confidence planted within them as they learn to become their best selves.
What books have influenced your life most?
Dr. Maya Angelou and Toni Morrison have been wonderful inspirations to me. Beloved and I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings are my favorites. Dr. Angelou’s poems, “Phenomenal Woman” and “Still, I Rise” gave me the courage to walk confidently in the world. I discovered that I was most excited to write when a “heart” issue was involved – love, struggle, passion, heartache, unrequited love. I lead with my heart in almost every area of my life so the inspiration came often and random poems turned into a poetry book. I am grateful to have been exposed to reading at a young age.
Books by Maya Angelou and Toni Morrison also sparked my love for issues that are close to the heart of women.