Author Candice Y. Johnson is dancing her way into the spotlight with her latest release. I recently spoke to her about Every Black Girl Dances.
Tell me about your latest book.
Every Black Girl Dances (EBGD) is the story of young, beautiful, Black filmmaker JC Burke, who’s touted as the “next Spike Lee,” but struggling with becoming the FIRST “JC.” Although it’s what initially catapulted her to fame, JC’s take on Black cinema is now landing her in the hot seat with the very people who made her a star. Will JC fall back into obscurity as quickly as she rose, or will she learn to dance on her on terms?
Why did you decide to write it?
EBGD is my heartbeat. For years, I’ve been told what I can and can’t do—artistically, creatively, and otherwise. Yet, I’ve always created my own language and danced to my own rhythm. I want every woman who feels like JC (unheard, disrespected, and brushed aside) to see themselves in the pages and discover their own voice.
Who is your favorite character in the book and why?
I love me some JC; however, I adore Luke—the amazing teacher who comes along for her journey to her self-discovery. Luke is a brother who sees the world through survivor’s glasses…and the frames fit well!
What was the hardest part about writing the story?
Allowing JC to speak to me, until we found our rhythm together. The story went through more than a few drafts and incarnations before we found our footing, but I believe we finally got the steps just right.
If you were to write a book about your life, what would be the title and why?
Blame it on Favor…because the favor of God is why I’m still here!
What would you tell your 16-year-old self?
Do it now, Candice! You don’t have to wait until you feel worthy to wear your crown.
What is something readers would be surprised to know about you?
People would be shocked to know how shy I am….and that I probably should have been a comedian in real time!
Tell me about a book that changed your life and why.
Temptation by Victoria Christopher Murray. It introduced me to a whole new world between the pages that I didn’t realize existed. From then on, I devoured our books and was inspired to write! All these years later, she’s still shaping the canvas with The First Ladies and more to come!
What books have you read lately and loved?
The Thing About Home Rhonda McKnight. She sure knows how to tell a fabulous story!!!
What books are you excited to read?
I’ll devour anything by Kennedy Ryan—she’s so fire!
What’s next for you?
I’m working on a number of books—children’s and adult—and I’m moving into something MAJOR. Details coming soon!
Do you have anything you would like to add?
There’s so much I can say about where God is taking me on this creative journey, and I just thank Him for the vision and the gift every day. The support I am receiving from my fellow authors has been astounding, and I love them so much, and I appreciate you for allowing me this opportunity to share my story with your awesome readers!
Use the Black Fiction Addiction affiliate link to purchase your copy of Every Black Girl Dances.
To learn more about Candice Y. Johnson, Author, Ghostwriter, Editor and Choreographer, visit her website.