Where are you from?

United States. Born and raised in California, currently living in Florida.

Tell us the story of how you got into writing

Writing always came naturally. I won a poetry contest in 5th grade, received an award for quality writing excellence in 8th grade, got a bachelor's degree in literature and writing, and a master's degree in English. 

Writing is my superpower. I have always been good at conveying messages in print, having written for blogs and small print publications in the past. Three years ago I was inspired to create a children's book for my kids. After getting that project under my belt, I started looking forward to my next book. That's when A Book for Black Girls was first conceptualized.

What was your favorite book growing up?

Charlotte's Web, E. B. White 
Wuthering Heights, Emily Bronte 
The Bluest Eye, Toni Morrison

What is your favorite book as an adult?

Becoming, by Michelle Obama; The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F--- by Mark Manson; The Four Agreements, by Don Miguel Ruiz

What inspires you to write?

People are searching for guidance, and they aren't necessarily looking to get that from a professor or counselor, but just another regular person who has picked up some strategies for mastering life. I want to help those people.

Tell us more about your new book

Sharing some details of the lessons I've learned from my own battles with insecurities, self-doubt, not creating boundaries, and not owning all of myself. All of these manifested in anxiety and depression for me as I struggled to fit in, to make the progress I saw others making, to find my own path, so to speak. 

This book is going to offer tips and strategies for those also suffering from anxiety and depression, along with daily mantras and helpful affirmations for modern times.

Where do you go to get into writing mode?

I always do my best writing at the beach or just after a beach trip. The beach is my happy place.

Who needs to read this book?

Anyone who has struggled with anxiety and depression; anyone looking for guidance for developing positive self talk

Who inspires you?

Valorie Burton, Nia Imani Franklin, Franchesca Ramsey

How important is reading and literacy for youth in this world?

Vital. People are losing money and assets right now because they failed to read the fine print. Reading and critical thinking skills go hand in hand.

What is some advice you would give to someone with a dream to create something they dream of?

Decide what it is, first. Maybe you want to find a way to bring more clean water to small villages in Africa, maybe you want to help diabetic patients monitor their insulin levels more closely and effectively. But decide the impact you want to make, then move in the direction of that goal. Do not worry about the length of your stride, or even if you are taking enough steps. As long as you are moving, you are winning.

Where can people find your new book? http://www.middayreset.com

Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/msantoinettechanel

Twitter: http://twitter.com/msantoinette510

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