Newly minted New York Times bestselling author LaDarrion Williams took time from his busy schedule to discuss his debut novel. I recently spoke with him about Blood at the Root.
Tell me about your latest book.
Blood at the Root is not only a young adult fantasy book, but it is also about the interiority of a Black boy name Malik Baron and his journey with life. His journey with his ancestry while he attends a magical HBCU called Caiman University. And he is trying to put together the tools to piece himself back together that’s been broken by the folks that was supposed to love him.
Why did you decide to write it?
I wanted to write it because I think Black boys usually are not seen as the hero of the stories. Especially YA and YA fantasy stories. If they are there, they are usually there to be the token Black friend, sell drugs, or be there to teach people about racism. I wanted to write a fantasy story about a Black boy from Alabama with ancestral magic. He’s the custodian of his own image, and I wanted that to be the driving force of Blood at the Root.
What do you want readers to learn from the story?
I want folks to learn that Black history is so vast and complex and beautiful. It is filled with pain, yes. But also so much joy and laughter and music. Blackness is at the epicenter of this story because it is magical.
When did you fall in love with the written word?
When Malik told me that he belongs here and he is part of something way bigger.
If you could pick another profession, what would it be and why?
Literally nothing. I am an artist at heart, and if I was something else, I wouldn’t want to exist.
What’s the best part of being an author?
Okay, so I love going to the bookstores and seeing my books there. That’s something I will never get over.
What’s the worst part of being an author?
Honestly, mentorship. I am yearning for mentorship. Especially from a Black author who’s been through it because it is a lonely job, and I would just like to…sit, talk, breathe, cuss, and laugh. But also to just be guided. Because a lot of things that I am fighting for and advocating for is alone. Other than my amazing agent and editors.
What books have you read lately and loved?
You know, I read a lot of plays, mostly. Because I love story and dialogue and characters so much. I will always ride for my favorite playwrights like Lorraine Hansberry, August Wilson, and Dominique Morrisseau.
What’s next for you?
Book 2! Because deadlines are real. Also, I’ll be heading up to Connecticut for a residency at the Eugene O’Neill Playwrights Conference.
Do you have anything you would like to add?
Yes. When you see Black artists posting their works or asking for help, please consider helping out. We are here, and we are writing the Black fantasies, the Black Sci-fi stories, but we need folks to PULL UP! Pulling up is so instrumental in a Black artist’s life.
Use the Black Fiction Addiction affiliate link to purchase your copy of Blood at the Root.
To learn more about LaDarrion Williams, follow him @Itsladarrion on all platforms.