Right before our eyes, Amber McBride, a professor of English at The University of Virginia, has transformed into her new role: author. I recently spoke with her about her debut novel-in-verse, Me(Moth).
Tell me about ME (MOTH).
Me (Moth) is a book about a girl named Moth and a boy named Sani. They both feel invisible in their primarily white suburbs, and they decide to take a road trip to the Navajo nation. They share stories and heal along the way and see each other. It’s a story about ancestry, traditions and identity.
What inspired you to write it?
The inspiration was twofold. First, I started writing this after my grandfather passed away in February of 2019. Not long after his funeral, a family member mentioned seeing coins left on his headstone, which is a Hoodoo tradition. I was interested in learning more about Hoodoo outside of my general knowledge, and it became a path to healing for me. Second, I wanted to tell a story about being marginalized and unseen in America. My cousins are Navajo, and their experiences often overlapped with mine. My aunt, who is Navajo, was a brilliant resource when it came to crafting the character of Sani.
When did you fall in love with the written word?
I was the kid reading Toni Morrison and Pride and Prejudice in middle school. I always loved books. I became serious about poetry when I was in the eighth grade and won a contest. I have been writing poetry ever since. I think language is magic and creating worlds is magical.
What’s the best part of being an author?
Sharing what you create and releasing it into the world!
What’s the hardest part of being an author?
Sharing what you create and releasing it into the world to be judged!
What books have you read lately and loved?
I have read a lot of brilliant books lately, but my favorites are—Bloodwarm by Taylor Byas, Legendborn by Tracy Deonn, The Tradition by Jericho Brown, and Ghost Girl by Ally Malinenko.
What book(s) are you most excited to read next?
I love reading middle grade, young adult, and adult books. These are my most anticipated book that are not out yet or were just released: This Appearing House by Ally Malinenko, Cameron Battle and the Hidden Kingdoms by Jamar J. Perry, The Taking of Jack Livingston by Ryan Douglass, To Break a Covenant by Alison Ames and In the Shadow Garden by Liz Parker.
Who would you cast in a movie to play your main characters?
One of the reasons I wrote this book is because of a lack of diversity in entertainment. I can’t think of a teen Navajo actor that could play Sani, which is what I would want. I also think I would want the character of Moth to be played by a Black girl they find in a drama department somewhere. Hypothetically of course.
What’s next for you?
My second novel in verse, We Are All So Good at Smiling comes out August 2022. I also have a few other things that are still not announced yet—you know writing secrets, but very excited!
Do you have anything you would like to add?
I hope readers enjoy the book!
Use the Black Fiction Addiction affiliate link to purchase your copy of Me (Moth).
To learn more about Amber McBride, professor of English at The University of Virginia, connect with her on social media or visit her website.
Twitter: twitter.com/ambsmcbride
Instagram: instagram.com/ambsmcbride
Website: Amber-Mcbride.com