Meet the author: Musu Bangura
Hello, readers! This month’s author interview is with Musu Bangura, a Maryland-based writer whose most recent work, “Big Sister in America”, is a heartbreaking short story about a young woman who flees war in her home of Sierra Leone. She faces many challenges as she begins a new life in America, but meets each one with strength and determination. In 2020, I was a guest on Ms. Bangura’s podcast The Writer’s Haven (you can listen to that episode HERE), and I admire her commitment to her craft and her desire to use story as a means to examine and talk about tough issues.
Meet the Author: Musu Bangura!
What are your favorite and least favorite parts of the writing process? My favorite part of the process has to be when I come up with a new storyline and scene. I get so excited to get it down on paper and when I finally do, the least favorite part happens - the editing.
Where is someplace you feel most at home? It's kind of difficult to answer that, given the past year and a half, but pre COVID, I would have to say Florida, the small, quaint town of Ybor.
Who is someone who has inspired you creatively? Toni Morrison and my editor.
What kind of books do you gravitate toward in your own reading life? Traditionally it has always been women's fiction novels, but lately it has been poetry.
What is your super power? Faith and self-care
What is one of the best pieces of advice you’ve ever gotten? In the writing journey it can get extremely discouraging when your work isn't getting the recognition you know it deserves. I've been told by those familiar with my work to keep going, "all it takes is one yes". All it takes is one person to see your vision and support it. Words like that give me more confidence in what I've written, reassuring myself that I have a great story to share with the world.
You can find out more about Ms. Bangura and her work at her website MusuWrites
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Bye, y’all!
“As clay anchors a tree in light and wind, May your outer life grow from peace within.” ~ John O’Donohue