In the Spotlight: Bernice McFadden
By Ann Burns -- Library Journal, 11/1/2005
Bernice McFadden’s books feature strong black female characters who must face the realities of child abuse, alcoholism, and prostitution. Her first novel, Sugar, was widely applauded when it appeared in 2000. In Nowhere Is a Place, forthcoming this February, a young woman uncovers a surprising family history.
How does your new novel compare with the others?
I guess when I was developing the story my thoughts ran to novels I’ve read by Toni Morrison, Alice Walker, and J. California Cooper—stories that I feel are filled with struggle, hope, love, and the realities of life.
Have you ever considered writing nonfiction?
I have, but I am more interested in writing fact-based fiction.
Why did you choose this particular career path?
Writing chose me. If it was up to me, I would probably be a travel agent (ha, ha, ha), but writing is as much a part of me as breathing.
What advice would you give to an aspiring novelist?
Remain passionate about your art, stay true to your ideals and ideas, and know that your time will come...eventually.
Who inspires you, and who are your favorite authors?
My family and friends. I’ve found anger and love to be very inspiring as well. Toni Morrison, Alice Walker, Gloria Naylor, Terry McMillan, J. California Cooper, and Gayl Jones are my favorite authors.
What’s next on your agenda?
A fictional account of a factual person.
