Yolanda Wilson 'Coví to the World' Interview | Respect the Author
Where are you from?
I’m from Brooklyn, New York!
Tell us the story of how you got into writing
I’ve been writing creatively ever since I was in elementary school. I would write poems to express my emotions because I couldn’t express myself verbally. I’m still struggling with that today, being vulnerable out loud gives me anxiety. Also, when I was a teenager I use to write raps for fun. My friends and I would sit on my bed writing our rhymes to YouTube instrumentals. We’d look up synonyms and create metaphors to better our bars. Those were the good ole days. I’d still write a rap today if one comes to mind. Really, all the things I do now creatively as an adult, I’ve been doing since I was a little girl.
What was your favorite book growing up?
My favorite books growing up were all Junie B. Jones’ books. That’s what I called them back then because the author wrote her name so big on the cover you’d think it was the title. I can’t tell you the actual title of any of her books, they were more like subtitles.
What is your favorite book as an adult?
I don’t have a favorite book, but the last book I read was “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho. I enjoyed the lesson in it, which for me was as long as you’re in pursuit of your dreams then the universe will help you achieve it. That is actually what I’m experiencing now, this interview right here is an example of it. Thanks to you and the universe for your contribution to my dreams.
What is the name of your new book?
The name of my book is “Coví To The World”
What inspired you to write the book?
“Coví to the World” was inspired by my daughter, Yahza. She’s really shy and timid like Coví in the story. If Yahza doesn’t feel comfortable around someone she’d cry. If she walked into a crowded space, she’d cry. Some people didn’t know how to react to her when she’d act that way. They’d force a hug while she is crying or yell at her playfully and I did not like that. Partly, I felt the pandemic had a lot to do with how she interacted in groups. The pandemic had everything shut down, it was a ghost town. The fear of contracting Coronavirus was in everyone, so social distancing was crucial. When the fear of being socially lessened that’s when Yahza’s fear heightened. We come from a quiet home where there’s barely any movement, then to enter a world full of movement was a lot for Yahza. It was a lot for Coví too, hence the name Coví is similar to the word COVID.
Tell us more about your new book
“Coví to the World” is about a boy name Coví who’s been in the house thinking of creative ways to have fun. His mom will not let him go outside because there’s a pandemic going on and she’s concerned for her household’s safety. She’s using all preventative measures to ensure everyone is in good health. However, Coví really wants to indulge in some fun with children his age. He wants to go to the park, and go to school as the other children do, but he is also afraid that he won’t be accepted.
Where do you go to get into writing mode?: In the early mornings I create my best work and I also come up with some great ideas. I love mornings. I usually write in this small corner of my room, in front my window while in silence. When I need to quiet my mind I listen to classical, jazz, gospel, and r&b music.
Who needs to read this book?
Every child needs to read “Coví To The World”, adults too get your children a book! I believe that everyone can benefit from the lesson in it.
Who inspires you?
Everyone that is pushing past their fears and discomfort to become better is an inspiration.
How important are reading and literacy for youth in this world?
Reading and literacy are extremely important for the youth. It can help them concentrate, and grow their imagination. Also, it helps with language, vocabulary, communication skills, writing skills, and overall confidence.
What is some advice you would give to someone with a dream?
My advice to the dreamers of the world is to just do it! Put it out there because you love it! Don’t worry about what people may think, what matters is that you did it! It takes courage and you will not know the impact of your gift if you harvest it in your mind. LET IT OUT!
Where can people find your new book?
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