Davy Fidel, Author And Poet

Author's Hangout With Zizi

Davy Fidel is a talented Nigerian author and poet whose writing is deeply influenced by personal experiences and the realities of everyday life. He lost his father at the age of seven and was raised alongside five siblings by his mother. Financial constraints truncated his university degree ambtion, but that did not stop his pursuit of knowledge.

Davy educated himself through literature and, over time, he transformed his love for reading into a passion for writing, and it became an outlet to express his experiences and the world around him. He uses poetry, fiction, and essays to explore life, hardship, resilience, and everyday experiences.

His book, Street Tears, a collection of poems, was submitted for the Nigeria Prize for Literature in 2022. The poems in the book reflect many life realities, including his childhood experiences. In the poem Died Without A Word, he revisits the painful memory of his father’s death. 

Can you tell us a little about yourself and how your journey into poetry began?
 
I may want to respond to the question this way. Being that I was born into an Igbo and Catholic family before I chose a different orientation and philosophical thinking to interpret life, society, and the psychology of human beings and their behaviour towards the things they react against or not. I have always preferred to use a pseudonym that I am comfortable with, and it is Davy Fidel.

I am a writer, poet, novelist, essayist, and short story teller. My poems, "Alone on the Big Sea" and "Squirrel," were published in The Apollonian and Global Writers’ Project first-quarter edition in 2026. My short story, "Ekwensu Left Behind a Note," was selected for the Nigeria Contemporary Writers’ Anthology.

Do you remember the first poem you ever wrote and what inspired it?
 
Yes, I remember correctly. I was a teenager then. What inspired me to write my first poem was what happened to me in 1997 in Saint Mary’s Catholic Church in Lagos. It is something I am not sure I can forget. I wrote the poem six to seven years after 1997 because the memory of it breathes deeply in me, and I cannot dismiss or bury it. ‘‘Loneliness’’ caused it, and that’s the title of my first poem. I wrote it in a notebook and several other poems thereafter. To this day, I still have the notebook. I also can’t forget how I felt that day. The ordeal was an immovable flask in my heart.
 
What initially drew you to poetry rather than other forms of writing?
 

Being that I do other forms of creative art lately, like writing novels that are fiction, short stories, and essays that I spend a lot of time writing daily. After I wrote my first poem, I talked about it. My interest in poetry grew. I began reading other poets – old and new – that I could lay my hands on so I could see how they do it, since I didn’t study literature in College when I finished up in 1999. A few of them I met through their works were William Blake, William Butler Yeats, Niyi Osundare, and others that I read so I can learn. I also attended a few poetry gatherings and workshops. These processes aided my poetry writing journey.

 
How would you describe your poetic voice or style?
 
I would say it is philosophical, metaphorical, and, more importantly, uses what I see, think, and evaluate to interpret and say things about humanity through the device of poetry that is at my disposal.
 
What themes or ideas do you find yourself returning to often in your poetry?
 
Just to mention a few themes, they are nature, life, humans, death, love, politics, and others. This question also reminds me of fire, air, water, and earth. So, when I sit down to write or think of something. I always try to use the concept of dialectical materialism to interpret little things and objects around me that catch my eye. Even when I sometimes write prose poems, fiction, and short stories, I practice daily. I endeavour to caption these things in the social context of life, death, humans, love, and nature. Using Psychology and Philosophy also aids me in writing my poems.
 
What does your writing process look like? Do you write daily, or only when inspiration strikes?
 
At first, it wasn’t smooth. It was rough, frustrating, and full of distractions. But I motivated myself and never surrendered to what I struggled with and the hard parts of life. I never allowed those things to weigh me down. Given this background and knowing what I really need in this life, I practice my writing daily so I can improve
my craft, and I never stop. And as I go deeper into it- I mean, in the kinds of writing I do. I began prioritising it. Inspired or not, I write daily. I don’t have a specific day or hour to write. I think of something, I see something, I hear things; I just write and keep writing.
 
Which poets or writers have influenced your work the most, and in what way?
 
I don’t think I have any major poet or writer I can really say has influenced the way I write. The answer I can provide is that I read different books. I don’t select what I read. I just read because I want to see how it is done and why. I also want to learn the trick so I can craft mine and use what I learn when I read other poets’ or writers’ books to say the things I interpret about life, death, humans, nature, love, and even society through the concept of what I mentioned earlier.
 
Are there any non-literary influences - music, art, film, or personal experiences that shape your poetry?
 
Yes. Life experiences of people around me and the things they say about their lives – good or bad – trigger me to write. Listening to details and interpreting them is another nuance for me. I try to picture them in my mind while I position and envision what they think when they say those things. Listening to music, especially rap, and watching crime movies, medieval history, politics, romance, and others are part of it. Meditation and silence are another brew for me, including memories that have their own bite too.
 
What message or emotion do you hope readers take away from your poems?
 

Life, hope, and the future that they need to act upon. It is also about the kinds of interpretation and meaning they derive from my poems. In other words, it is how they see their lives in the poems. How they feel emotionally when they read them. How they react when life is up and down for them, how they express it, and the impact it may have on them.

How much of yourself do you pour into your work? Do you write from imagination or lived experience?
 
In answering both questions, I would say I put in everything I got – heart, head, and body. I don’t detach myself from what I write. Is it my time, mood, and how I feel? I invest hours into what I write, and I try to think them through. For imagination and lived experience, it is both ways. I see things, I read meaning into them, I envision things, and I deeply think about them. This process reminds me of a work of fiction I completed in 2025 that is unpublished. I never planned it. But because of the things I saw. The scene pushed me, and I began writing, and I completed it — 500-plus pages.
 
Tell us about the challenges in getting your first book published?
 
My dream is to have a publishing deal that would take care of everything while I concentrate on my literary works. That said, such hasn’t become a reality. I just have to deal with what is in my disposal. Publishing my first book wasn’t easy. It was tough, stressful, and time-consuming. Is it finding the appropriate market and readers? This is something the publishing house should be handling, not a writer or poet.
 
How do you market your work? What avenues have you found to work best for you, and has it been rewarding?
 
It isn’t easy for either a writer or a poet to self-publish their work and then market their books through their sweat and blood. Attending literary gatherings and small communities of readers, I endeavour to introduce my book in such spaces and to individuals I know, and who know me. I also try to utilise online communities.
For the reward, I would say it is for me to continue pushing while I search for bigger platforms.
  
Tell us about your recent poetry book, The Sun Laughs at Night, and what inspired the collection?

 

So far, ‘The Sun Laughs at Night’ has had two reviews and several complimentary comments from those who have bought their copies directly from me. I would say that the summary of the book is for people to ask questions about the existing order of things and life. Each poem speaks directly to politics, illusion, the atrocities
committed against humanity, love, fear, ideas, individualism, and other subject matter the book has tried to capture. I wouldn’t have been able to write the fifty-one poems without giving meaning to the little things I see and think about that took place at the time I wrote the book.
 
What’s one lesson poetry has taught you about life or

yourself?

Writing poetry has always taught me to listen with an open mind, think things deeply, and interpret any subject matter clearly while I write. Another thing is language and the use of words. This has taught me to learn the formulation of what I express by using the devices of poetry.
 
How do you overcome self-doubt and maintain confidence in your work?
 
I write, and I don’t stop writing. I set a target for myself, and I don’t allow what people think or say about what I do to wreck the passionate side of me. Instead, I see those things that fall from people’s mouths as oil for me to continue writing. I also don’t run around for validation. I motivate myself by reading, learning, and thinking so I can improve the things I write about and, importantly, my craft. Patience is another thing for me in writing.
 
Which of your poems means the most to you and why?

 

Hmm. This is a serious one [smile]. What I can say is that every poem I have written and am about to write means a lot to me. Saying this is my favourite poem would be difficult for me. [I smile again].
   
What advice would you give to aspiring poets who want to find their voice?

 The simple advice I would give to them, which I have always given to myself, is that they shouldn’t wait for validation or the best time to come. They mustn’t also let their status discourage them, especially those below the ladder. Rather, they should motivate themselves by taking the step to do it. They must erase all iota of doubt within them. They must also be original; especially now, the noise of Artificial Intelligence tools is destroying those who think it is the best way to explore creative writing. I may need to say that consistency is an important nail for them to be alive in writing. There is no shortcut to express this passion. Importantly, learning is endless, and it is what can keep this original part of creative writing meaningful. That’s the summary.
 
Give us an interesting fact about any of your books.
 
Hmm. [smile]. This question puts me on the hot seat. [smile again]. In simple words, I would say life, hope, and the future. These three put me on the pedestal of thinking widely.
 
How has being a writer impacted your personality growth, and where do you see yourself in the coming years with your writing?

In these few words, I would say writing has stolen me away from the world’s distractions. Writing has rebuilt, shaped, and positioned me to listen closely and carefully to the details of life. It could be small or big. Writing has also taught me to manage my time and every other thing I do. Importantly, it has kept me moving despite the ups and downs of life. Quantifying the stage I am in right now. I don’t think I am ready to let any form of unnecessary distraction come between why I write about the future and where I see myself or where this field takes me. I can’t really say. I could only say it is my consistency that would lead me to what I envision achieving while I continue doing what gives me relief, joy, and happiness despite the ruthless world we live in.
 
What do you consider your best accomplishment as a poet?
 
I would say they are consistent, self-motivating me without people’s validation, and never giving up on me in this journey of writing and never stopping writing. These armouries relieve me. Another accomplishment is my sense of humour, patience, and my daily practice so I can remain original in what I write. The final calabash for me is discipline. Through the latter, I have been able to consolidate every unrecognised effort I am putting in so I can be better in my literary works despite the challenges.
  
What has been the most powerful reaction you’ve received from someone reading your work?
 
Oh. [I smile]. I may need to say that since ‘The Sun Laughs at Night’ was released in March 2026. A few of the reactions I received when I introduce my book to individuals in the places I go are: ‘‘You are a deep thinker.’’ ‘‘You have a sense of humour.’’ ‘‘You have done a great job.’’ ‘‘This is a great achievement. I am proud of you, Fidel.’’

These words are from those who bought a copy directly from me. One of them is a German I met in a book club on the island, and it was June 30, 2026. Their words refill the gallons of water in my body. This is apart from others I have received that made me wonder.

  
What can readers expect from your future work?

Prose or poetry; the expectation shall be something imaginative, illuminating, and creating a passage in our minds.
 
Where can people read your poems and connect with you online?
 
The Sun Laughs at Night is available on Selar - https://selar.com/77b2195691. It will come out soon on other online platforms. My handle is on Instagram — davynovich. For a talk, send an email. lifeinslums@gmail.com [Please no links]

Thank you for this wonderful opportunity to talk briefly about my writing journey.

Dike Ekejiuba, Author of Historical Paranormal Fictions

Author's Hangout with Zizi

Dike Ekejiuba is a deep thinker, very philosophical, a prober and a lover of history; no wonder he delved into historical and paranormal fictions. He is the author of Iva, the book that recaptured the murder of twenty-one coal miners at the Iva Valley coal mine, Enugu, on November 18th, 1949.

Can you tell us about yourself — your life, background, and educational journey?

Although born in the east, my early life was spent in the streets of Lagos, specifically in Surulere. After primary education there, I finished tertiary learning at Government College Owerri, before studying Banking and Finance at Imo State University. I worked for about five years before obtaining an MBA from the University of Benin. 

What first sparked your love for writing? Was it a moment, a person, or a particular experience?

When I once read a version of the ‘Three Little Pigs’ tale in a book my dad had bought for me, I was left feeling like the story should have had a different and much darker ending. I then went ahead to write one... and it thoroughly frightened my little brother as well as my 8-year-old self. I’d always been a voracious reader, but that singular experience showed me I could fashion my own stories.

How did you discover your writing genre? What drew you to it?

My genre (historical paranormal fiction) stems from the kind of stories I’ve always been most interested in–less-known history, mythology, indigenous lore and mystery, as well as the supernatural. I’ve written in other genres, of course, and while I love dabbling in suspense thrillers, for me, these that always held the greatest fascination.

Where do your story ideas usually come from, and how do you develop them?

With the knowledge that much of our indigenous history, legend, and lore remains poorly documented and underrepresented, I explored how much evidence of historical events with a paranormal aspect exists right here in our cities, towns, and villages. Doing so, I understood how much of the stories surrounding such true events have never fully been explored and decided to detail them in fiction format... artifacts like the soapstone statuettes of Esie, a town in western Nigeria; the sacred tomb of Bilikisu Sungbo–famous for being said to be the actual biblical Queen of Sheba–in Ijebu-Ode, and the Nsude pyramids of Enugu. These and others are real, tangible evidence of some strange and sometimes wondrous events in our history that deserve not to be forgotten.

Were there any authors or books that deeply influenced you, either growing up or as an adult?

Growing up, my favourite Western authors tended to be in the horror and supernatural suspense genres–writers like Stephen King, Clive Barker, and Neil Gaiman, as well as science fiction authors like Isaac Asimov, Frank Herbert, Phillip K. Dick, and Clifford Simak, shaped my interest in those genres. After a period of not fully appreciating African literary writers, as I grew older, I loved the simple but powerful evocations of Chinua Achebe, John Munonye’s stylings (he actually taught me in college), Soyinka’s prose, and Elechi Amadi’s content. This makes me seem eclectic, to be sure, but if I really had to pick an influence among the indigenous writers I know, it would be Cyprian Ekwensi. I believe his works are still largely unsung in our lifetime, and that he was one of the few great suspense writers we ever had.

What kind of research goes into your writing? How long do you usually spend gathering material before starting a book?

We all grew up hearing fables and urban legends that were cautionary tales for our childhoods. Memories of them, as well as my investigation into what constitutes our various cultures, have proved to be a treasure trove of such accounts, both ancient and modern. Following up on them sometimes proves daunting, I find, and has involved travelling down to historical relic sites, museums, and locations of such events to gather first-hand accounts. Besides that, I employ internet websites and chatrooms to fill out any plotline holes that would prevent my writing from being viable historical fiction. It takes me about a month to gather the information needed to start a book and, barring any unforeseen delays, I usually take about three to four months to produce a first draft.

What’s the strangest or most unexpected thing you’ve ever had to research for your writing?

Visiting the tomb of Bilikisu Sungbo–the woman that the locals claimed was the legendary Queen of Sheba–was a unique experience. Any man entering the tomb ground (women were not allowed inside) was required to go barefoot. Also, any who prayed to her could expect to see their wishes granted, so I prayed for billions, of course! In addition, inspecting the desolate forest site of the Iva coal mines of Enugu, accompanied by a pair of cutlass-carrying young men in a period rife with abduction and ransom of strangers, was nerve-wracking, to say the least.

What were some of the biggest challenges you faced while publishing your first book?

My challenges were pretty much the same as experienced by most writers in a genre as uncommon as mine: time, good editing, publication cost and most importantly, promotion. As I couldn’t attract a traditional publishing company, I had to self-publish the two volumes of ‘Distant Shores’, my novel about the infamous ‘Igbo Landing’ event of 1803.

How many books have you written so far, and do you have a personal favourite?

My published books total four so far, and hopefully I’ll be adding a fifth before the year's end. Of those at various stages of completion, I currently have five: three novels and two short story collections. Picking a favourite of all my works would be like asking which of my children I consider dearest to me–each one was a labour of love... and despair, oftentimes. 

What would you consider your greatest achievement or proudest moment as a writer?

Like any other author, I guess, a great achievement beyond the thrill of finally seeing your vision in black and white would be to gain the recognition of your peers in the field. Right now, I would say being once introduced as an expert on the subject matter of my first book to a room full of erudite scholars and lecturers of Igbo history was a nice feeling, even if I didn’t deserve it!

How do you balance your writing life with your daily work or other responsibilities?

Oh, it's not easy. The pace of activity needed to sustain and raise a family these days is quite daunting. For me, it was only when I scaled back my private business activities due to health concerns that I was able to do more and then consider publishing stuff I’d been scribbling for years beforehand. It’s still difficult, but my family has come to accept my unrelenting passion for this ‘writing thing’ and usually affords me time and space to indulge. Of course, it helps that the kids aren’t so small anymore that they need constant monitoring.

What are some of the most important lessons you’ve learned on your writing journey?

To that, I’ll say I’m still learning and finding my way. My real writing journey really began about five years ago, and I’ve come to appreciate that patience and the willingness to learn and improve your craft are of utmost importance. When it comes to marketing and promotion, I’ve discovered that we as Nigerians seem to have a bias against our own homegrown talents, which is not healthy.

How do you market your books, and which methods have worked best for you?

Beyond the usual marketing tools touted by so-called ‘social media experts’ these days (most of which prove ineffective, anyway), I took advantage of my stories being mainly based on real historical events, or of people, and places. Consequently, I was able to attend ground public events where they are showcased. The last of such was the 75th anniversary of the Iva Coal Mine massacre, which was held in Enugu last year, and on which occasion I was able to hold a joint book launch and reading of my book titled ‘IVA’. The upside of such is the almost guaranteed sales of my books on site, whereas outside of them buzz has remained relatively low. I also try to place my books with book lovers like me who have a large following, to have them talk about it.

What advice would you give to aspiring writers who wish to follow in your footsteps?

Ha–ha... I would say they should not expect to make a good living solely from fiction writing for mass consumption. It’s not to say that there aren’t good returns to be made–after all, the field encompasses a lot more, such as scriptwriting, ghost writing, copywriting, etc, but being a genre author in this day and age requires commitment and patience. Without such qualities, a new writer might face quick disillusionment.

How would you describe the Nigerian creative and literary landscape compared to previous years?

Exciting. And disappointing, but not in equal measure. The recent boom in black speculative fiction is something I love, but the marked dwindling of attention span created by social media is impacting badly on readership levels. Granted, in the past, such diversions were non-existent, but the extent of imaginative laziness–worsened by the advent of AI–is something that doesn’t bode well for creative development, in my opinion. Others may not agree.

How does your family feel about your writing career?

As I previously alluded, their reactions vary discriminately between general amusement and occasional pride. I choose to ignore the former and fully embrace the latter.

Do you see any of your children showing interest in writing as well?

My first son dutifully reads some of what I publish; my last-born son cannot be bothered, but my only daughter, who took to loving storybooks the same way I did in my childhood, is one of my biggest cheerleaders. She has probably read more of my works (whether published or not) than anyone else in the world.

How do you unwind? What are your hobbies or passions outside of writing?

Luckily, I’ve managed to turn my favourite hobby–writing–into a real passion of sorts. Otherwise, I sometimes ride my hybrid sports bicycle along the length of Lagos Coastal Highway as a form of relaxation and exercise. I’m also a big fan of movies, especially ones based on books by any of my beloved authors, as well as characters drawn from comic books and graphic novels.

Where can readers connect with you and learn more about your books?

Since my author website became largely inoperative last year. I now rely more on my link tree, which is: http://linktr.ee/dikeekejiuba. Contained there are links to my published works on both Amazon and Selar, as well as links to my Instagram and my Facebook author page.

T.C Wanyanwu, Author & Poet

Author's Hangout With Zizi

ThankGod Chimenem Wanyanwu, widely known as T.C. Wanyanwu, is a multifaceted author based in Port Harcourt, Nigeria. He is also a media consultant and A Pan-Africanist. Renowned for his impactful works. He is a researcher who explores themes of self-discovery, societal reform, and cultural identity. Wanyanwu is a motivational speaker and certified human developer who leverages education and digital publishing to empower others. Additionally, he is a passionate blogger, book reviewer, and Kingdom Man committed to advancing Christian values.

One thing I noticed while interacting with him is the passion and enthusiasm he brings to his work, whether writing or helping others grow. There is always an inner joy that glows on his face when he speaks about the things he loves, such as writing and books.

Tell us about yourself.

My name is ThankGod Chimenem Wanyanwu, widely known as T.C. Wanyanwu, and I’m a Nigerian-born author, poet, and publishing consultant passionate about storytelling that challenges norms, reawakens minds, and inspires self-reflection. I specialise in crafting works that blend rhythm, rhyme, metaphor, and deep themes—especially those surrounding race, identity, faith, love, and personal awakening. I run a YouTube channel (T. C. Wanyanwu) and also help beginners navigate the world of book publishing on Amazon. I believe in using creativity to heal, educate, and spark change.

How and when did your writing journey begin?

My writing journey began early in life. As a child, I often scribbled thoughts, dreams, and reflections into notebooks, instinctively turning real-life experiences into lyrical expressions. However, it wasn’t until my university days in India that I began writing seriously. It was during this formative period that I published my first book, Jesus Is a Black Man: An Inconvenient Truth—a bold exploration of race, faith, and historical distortion. I immersed myself in poetry and short stories that tackled societal contradictions and personal struggles. Over time, this passion evolved into crafting full-length works that challenge, enlighten, and inspire.

What genre do you write?

I primarily write poetry, non-fiction, fiction (including historical novels), and reflective essays. My poetry often blends social commentary with spirituality, history, and personal transformation, while my fiction delves into love, sin, identity, and redemption

Where and how do you get ideas for your writing?

My ideas come from life itself—my upbringing, African culture, spiritual reflections, media programming, historical realities, and the everyday paradoxes we often ignore. I also draw heavily from conversations, dreams, and silent observations. Sometimes, a single phrase or feeling can birth an entire book.

Is there any author or book that influenced you in any way, either growing up or as an adult?

Yes, growing up, I was influenced by Chinua Achebe for his portrayal of African identity, Maya Angelou for the depth and resilience in her poetry, and later James Baldwin, whose raw honesty shaped my desire to speak boldly about race and identity. Their works permitted me to embrace my truth.

What are the challenges you encountered in getting your first book published?

The major challenges were a lack of guidance, funding, and access to professional publishing resources. I had to learn a lot through trial and error—typesetting, cover design, marketing. Eventually, I taught myself how to publish on Amazon and now help others do the same.

Tell us about your recent poetry book, Whitewashed Black Jesus, and what inspired the collection of poems in the book.

Whitewashed Black Jesus is a poetic collection that explores racial identity, subconscious programming, religious misrepresentation, and the psychological effects of colonial imagery. It was inspired by my personal journey as an African who grew up seeing white saviours and Eurocentric standards dominate spirituality, beauty, and success. The book challenges these constructs, using rhyme and rhythm to awaken the reader.

How long does it take you to write a poem?

It varies. Some poems come in a burst of inspiration and are done in 15–30 minutes, especially when emotions are high. Others may take days or even weeks, as I revise metaphors, tighten the rhythm, and ensure the message is powerfully delivered.

In your writing journey, what are the most important lessons you’ve learned?

The most important lesson is that your truth will always find its audience. Also, consistency and vulnerability matter. I’ve learned to embrace criticism, invest in my craft, and never underestimate the power of storytelling to transform lives.

Give us an interesting fact about the writing of any of your books.

While writing Whitewashed Black Jesus, I often wrote entire stanzas in my head during long walks or quiet nights, then rushed to type them before they vanished. The title itself came from a conversation with a friend who questioned why Jesus always appeared white in African churches.

How has being a writer helped your personality growth, and where do you see yourself in the coming years with your writing?

Writing has helped me become more self-aware, confident, and purpose-driven. It has allowed me to confront my fears, ask hard questions, and connect with people deeply. In the coming years, I see myself publishing more impactful books, mentoring young writers, and using multimedia platforms to share African stories globally.

What are your other interests outside writing?

I enjoy public speaking, technology, music, teaching, and digital publishing. I’m also interested in history, psychology, and helping young people discover their voices.

Where and how do you get ideas for your books? Most of them are fantastic.

Thank you! I get ideas from real-life events, hidden histories, spiritual insights, and cultural observations. I pay attention to the unseen messages in what we’re taught, what we believe, and what we repeat without question. Often, a contradiction in society inspires me to write.

What kind of research do you do, and how long do you spend researching before beginning a book?

My research is multi-layered. I read historical books, religious texts, articles, and documentaries. For some books, I spend weeks to months offline researching, especially when dealing with spiritual, cultural, or historical themes. I verify facts and often speak with people from different backgrounds to deepen my perspective.

How many books have you written? Any favourite?

I’ve written several books, including Whitewashed Black Jesus, fiction titles like Sin Got Me, and others in progress. 

Already published are: 

8 e-Commerce Options & Online Wealth Creation; 

6 Simple Steps To Digitise And Market Your Book By Yourself; 

Awake Through Self-Discovery: Solution Manual; 

Gambling – My Ordeal and Past Experience; 

Judgment Day Of The Lord; 

12 Enslavement Tricks Of Satan And How To Escape Them; 

10 Scriptural Warnings Against Bowing Down to Images Created as God: Uncensored Idolatry in the Church; 

Jesus Is A Black Man: An Inconvenient Truth; 

NnaNna The Strong-willed Child. Whitewashed Black Jesus is a personal favourite because of its bold message, poetic beauty, and cultural importance.

What are your goals, and what do you consider to be your best accomplishment as a writer?

My goal is to inspire a generation of conscious, confident African storytellers. My greatest accomplishment is creating a platform that enables others to publish their books, especially those who previously thought it was impossible. I’ve also built a solid YouTube audience around my work.

What else are you great at that few people know about?

Few people know that I’m also good at graphic design, editing, video scripting, and content strategy. I also have a gift for teaching complex ideas in simple, relatable ways.

What’s your favourite music/film?

I love soulful music, especially songs with deep lyrics—Lauren Daigle, Asa, and old-school gospel. As for films, I enjoy introspective dramas, faith-based movies, and historical films such as The Pursuit of Happyness, Amistad, and Harriet.

How do you relax, and what are your hobbies aside from writing?

I relax by listening to music, walking, reflecting, or watching thought-provoking content. I also enjoy journaling, reading poetry aloud, and connecting with people who think deeply.

How do you market your books? What avenues have you found to work best for you, and has it been rewarding?

I use Amazon KDP and Selar.co, YouTube, WhatsApp Channels, word of mouth, and social media storytelling. I’ve found that authentic connection with readers and consistent visibility are more effective than just ads. It’s been rewarding because people trust what I create.

What advice will you give to aspiring writers, especially those who would want to follow in your footsteps?

Start now. Don’t wait for perfect conditions. Learn how publishing works, invest in editing and design, and don’t be afraid to tell your truth. Even if your voice trembles, use it. Your story matters.

What is your assessment of the Nigerian creative landscape today compared to years ago?

It’s evolving. There’s more access to tools and platforms, but there’s still a need for stronger support systems and more original African narratives. I’m encouraged by the growing number of bold voices, but we must guard against copying Western styles blindly.

What feedback do you receive from your readers about your books?

I’ve received feedback that my books are deep, moving, thought-provoking, and healing. Many say they never saw certain issues the way I present them. Some readers message me with tears, saying I gave words to what they’ve felt for years.

How and where can readers learn more about your books?

Readers can connect with me via my Facebook page (facebook.com/authortcwanyanwu), YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@tcwanyanwu or my WhatsApp Channel (https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va9GC4lAjPXM21r0po2g). My books are available on Amazon, and I share updates, reflections, and writing tips regularly across my platforms