JoeyPinkney.com Exclusive Interview
5 Minutes, 5 Questions With…
Don Smith, author of What I See: A New Prescription for Thought
(Eloquent Books)
What I See: A New Prescription for Thought is a series of thought-provoking essays on critical issues facing America with a special focus on Black America. Using penetrating logic and detailed analysis, author Don Smith hit on such issues as Hip-Hop, reparations, the value of black women, critical thinking, and many others.
Written with the intellect of WEB DuBois, the love of MLK Jr. and the intensity of Malcolm X, What I See: A New Prescription for Thought should be read by young and old, black and white, and all those serious about engaging in critical thinking to bring about change.
Dr. William Clifton, a Social Justice Educator for University of Wisconsin-Madison says, “Mr. Smith has written a very powerful and personal series of essays premised upon the need for ‘Critical Consciousness’ within and specifically for the African-American community. Embodying what he espouses, Mr. Smith provides a rich array of ideas for readers interested in a deeper, more personal understanding of the historical and on going impact of White Privilege on Race and Gender and Education in the United States.”
Joey Pinkney: Where did you get the inspiration to write What I See: A New Prescription for Thought?
Don Smith: I have had the desire to be a writer/lecturer for years. I wanted to produce a book that would challenge people to think, and I believe I have done this in this particular work. I wanted to challenge the conventional wisdom of the day and help people to learn to be critical thinkers, which would aid them in taking charge of their life and community.
JP: What sets What I See: A New Prescription for Thought apart from other books in the same genre?
DS: My book has depth to it, yet is very accessible to readers. I wanted this book to be read by young and old alike. Hence, put it in a language where all could glean truths from it. I also believe that this book has great heart behind it that will allow it to have longevity. The essays in this book speak directly to everyday issues that Black America faces.
JP: As an author, what are the keys to your success that led to What I See: A New Prescription for Thought getting out to the public?
DS: Perserverance….commitment….determination. I have confidence that I have a voice and have decide to share that voice with the general public.
JP: As an author, what is your writing process? How long did it take you to start and finish What I See: A New Prescription for Thought?
DS: I wrote from both inspiration and from outlines. I tend to work in burst or spurts of ideas and concepts. I usually would write for a few hours daily, as well as edit my manuscript as I went along. It took me about four months from beginning to end to complete What I See: A New Prescription for Thought.
JP: What’s next for Don Smith?
DS: I have already begun working on my next book/project. It is my desire to write and lecturer on a number of issues. I hope to be ready to publish my next book in 6-8 months. I would also love the opportunity to write as a vocation and not just on a part-time basis. I have also been approached about doing some spoken word material from my first book, a poetry book entitled Do You Feel Me?: Poetry from the Heart of a Black Man.
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