Ife Alicto Interview & Ife: My Name Means Love Giveaway

Let's Welcome Ife Alicto, Author of Ife: My Name Means Love to From Our Bookshelf.

Here's a little bit about Ife:

Ife Alicto ( Ife is pronounced "ee-fey") was born on the beautiful island of Trinidad and Tobago in the West Indies. She grew up in the neighborhood of Harlem in New Your City. She is currently serving in the United States Navy. She is married with four children. She has a beautiful, blended family.

Ife Alicto's website: Ife - Ife My Name Means Love

Now for our interview:

What was your favorite book when you were 8 years old?

I did not have a favorite book. I tried to get into the book called Babysitters Club, but I did not relate. I started liking novels when I got older. When I read The Coldest Winter Ever, I was hooked, and I continue to read novels and that type of format. The book was from my generation. The book changed my life. I think that is one of the reasons why I am serving in the military. There are many reasons why I enlisted but reading that book made me realize there is more to life than nice clothes.

What book didn't you connect to as a kid and found the connection as an adult?

I did not connect to many books because there were not many children's books that reflect the image of me when I was growing up. I still can't relate to books I didn't relate to as a child. I just found books that I could relate to, if that makes sense.

What is your favorite genre to read (Fiction/ Realistic Fiction/ Nonfiction)?

Nonfiction

Who are your favorite Children's Authors?

Sister Souljah. Not a children's author, but she did affect my childhood.

Which children's book would you like to read that you have not read yet?

I would have to say all. I have bought many books since I have become a mother that reflects myself and my children. And now that my children are reading a lot of books, it is very exciting to see them enjoy images that reflect them.

At what age did you write your first creative writing piece? What was it?

When I was 13 years old, I wrote my first creative piece. It was about a girl that could fly and teleport through time.

What is your favorite genre to write (Poetry/Short Stories/Plays, etc.)?

I prefer to write short stories because I have an imaginary mind and struggle to keep to one plot, so I prefer short times because it allows me to feel free to have more than one thought.

What was the most challenging creative writing piece that you thought you couldn't write?

I found writing to be very challenging in my current book because first I wanted to write a fiction book and then turned it into a personal memoir, and I was going back-and-forth on each piece and chapter, so it was very challenging to get my thoughts in order.

Do you keep a writing journal?

Yes, I keep a journal of my thoughts, how I feel, what I'm feeling, what I did, and how I did it. If I can picture something in my head and I wanted it to come to life in journaling, this is a good way to manifest your dreams.

In what genre would you like to write that you haven't written yet?

I would like to write a series of books that has a very imaginary plot and timeline.

What inspired you to write Ife: My Name Means Love?

I was inspired by my 11-year-old son, Ilais. He was in a book club at school called, The Battle of the Books. They read a book I found interesting. It was a personal memoir in color. I have always wanted to write a book, but I wasn't sure what it would be about. I still struggle as an adult with basic English comprehension. I really didn't think I could do it, but I got up one day, and I said I am going to write about myself for my children so they can know where I came from, my legacy.

What is the Theme?

The theme is a personal memoir. It is a journey of my life in my youth and learning to love my name.

What ages is the book for?

The book is for 11year old and up.

One last question:

What is one thing you learned on your reading and writing journey that you use in your daily life?

I learned that you have to have patience. I know that's a cliché, but patience and taking your time to read through everything would allow you to create and manifest your dreams.

Now, here is your chance to win Ife: My Name Means Love Bundle!

(Giveaway Bundle includes: hardcover book, bag, planner with pen, and bookmark)