Hi! I’m Malisa. I am a first time author but have had a passion for writing since junior high.
I spend my days hoping to make an impact with kids as an elementary school counselor, as well as working with the newly bereaved with a hospice in OKC, that I’ve worked with since 2013. I also hang out, taxi, pull my hair out doing school work, bite my tongue, feed, clothe, etc… with my husband and three kids.
My first book is a labor of love born from a vision I got when I was in 8th grade. I had already experienced a lifetime’s worth of trauma but knew more was in store for me. Something told me that I would one day take all of that pain and make it my strength. I decided that I was going to help others with my story. So while I certainly have more left in me to write, this was always going to be the start for me.
I hope that you will read my story and that you will feel hope and meaning for your own life.
Where are you from?
I’m originally from Moore, Oklahoma and now live in Yukon, Oklahoma. Both are suburbs right outside of Oklahoma City.
Why do you write?
I write to express myself. I’m known for lengthy Facebook posts that I’m sure my friends grow tired of.
What do you write about?
I usually just write about whatever is weighing me down.
Do you have a specific writing style?
I think I have a pretty conversational writing style.
What are obstacles that come in the way of writing?
My biggest obstacle with writing is my own fear. I can get pretty nervous about how it will be received.
How long have you been writing?
I’ve been writing for as long as I can remember but this is my first book!
When did you first realize you wanted to become a writer?
In 8th grade I had a very distinct moment where I just knew I wanted to be a writer. I was really struggling with my family stuff and something just told me that I would be able to use those experiences to help others one day.
How long does it take to write a book?
I had the first draft of this book done in a week and then the second draft done in another two weeks.
What challenges do you come across when writing/creating your story?
My biggest challenge in writing this book was to try and not make the reader so sad that they couldn’t make it to the end and see the work I’ve been able to overcome. It was hard to keep a flow of events without bogging it down. I feel like I left so much out but it was an important part of the process. Picking what to leave out felt just as important as what to leave in.
What does your family think of your writing?
I mean… I think they like my Facebook posts. Ha! I gave my brother a sneak peak of one chapter. Other than that, nobody has read any of the book.
Do you see writing as a career?
I want writing to be a career and I’m hopeful that it will be.
Do you have anything specific you’d like to tell the readers?
I just want the reader to know that my biggest intent with writing this book was to show that it is possible to overcome even the worst of circumstances.
The book is releasing on 29th April 2021.
Check out Malisa’s website here
International Book Promotion 