Kristin Hunt author of I'm Much Better On Paper
Thank you for allowing Woman Boss Wednesday to feature you! Before we begin, can you tell the reader(s) a little about yourself?
No, jk. My name is Kristin. I’m from Atlanta. Bornt & raised. I’m 25. I love writing, reading, watching movies & annoying my brothers. Oh. Also, I’m a Georgia State student, with a 9-5 job that has nothing to do with my chosen career path.
You wrote your first book “I’m Much Better On Paper” can you tell the reader(s) what they can expect from “I’m Much Better On Paper”?
I’m Much Better On Paper is honestly like my journal. But also a synopsis of my life experiences as well as my family. Racism, feminism, and dating are funny, real anecdotes I added because they are uniting yet personal experiences. I talk about my mom a lot and what she went through with observing domestic violence. I talk about my parent’s divorce.
I am just super awkward and shy about yeah just about everything so this book and writing helped me in so many ways I feel. (hence the title)
So, I was going through your Instagram (you know the post where you announced your book) what was the writing process like? Who kept you motivated? How did you overcome the discouragement?
Girl, the writing process was stressful. What to leave out, what to leave in. I was super back and forth and annoying to myself and others probably. It still makes me cringe looking at it because I over critique the book still, and it is two months later now. But at some point I just had to say fuck it. Also writing a book is half the struggle, the trying to gather an audience, editing, promotion is a whole different story. Deciding to publish independently vs. waiting around for a publishing company was a big thing for me too. I can’t tell you to this day if it paid off. My mom and younger brother kept me motivated. It is tough still addressing it with my mom, but her struggle was so real, I wanted to include it, and were so close, it was like how could I not write about someone who is my best friend, rock, and everything. She believes in anything I do even if she doesn’t quite get it or agree. That type of devotion is priceless and makes me so thankful. My younger brother is just so motivational. His belief in me is unwavering. It makes me want to cry. Overcoming the discouragement was between me and God. He gave me the passion and voice for a reason. It’s on me to use it.
What advice can you give to anyone that feels like their voice doesn’t matter?
I would just say . . . trust your talent BUT do the work.I know it sounds corny but I’m very happy just doing what I feel, I’m supposed to be here for. And also don’t ignore urges for your work.
What is one of your favorite poems you wrote in “I’m Much Better On Paper”?
My favorite is a tie. STOP-in the Racism chapter because it just hits home for me. I wrote it because I feel media representation for us is not fair. It will always be timely REMEMBRANCE- in “Love Letter to my Parents” chapter makes me nostalgic and oh so happy. It is the second time I mention my uncle who passed away. It takes me back to the first time I saw my mom cry.I think I was 10 or 11.
In the book you talk about racism and how at a volleyball sleepover your (white) classmates began using racial slurs and laughing. How did this make you feel?
It made me feel less than and stupid. It also created this tension and divide that even though I’m really good at this sport, you don’t see me as equal you see me as a threat. It was an eye opener for sure.
What are three main tips you’d like to give to women who want to become a writer?
Follow your passion and what you like to write/talk about, no matter your color we write amazing in all genres, I don’t care what anyone says.
It’s going to get tough, don’t stop.
Make writing goals and keep up with them.
What do you enjoy doing outside of poetry and writing?
People watching is definitely a favorite. Going to the movies, I love to go out to eat. I can spend all day in a library or Barnes and Noble. I really love to be around books. I also have an online shopping addiction.
Will there be another book soon or are you thinking of doing a Part 2 of “I’m Much Better On Paper”?
There is another book in the works! I’m excited for it. It is a different title and them for my next collection. I hope to release in 2019.
Could you name three women who inspires you and why?
I can’t just name three, that is so unfair.
My mom because she is always there for me.
Ava Duvernay, because she just does the damn thing, like how do you go from to to directing Jay-Z’s ?! She proves diversity and versatility are ripe and for the taking.
Viola Davis because she makes me fall in love with every character she plays.
I would also like to extend honorable mentions to Shonda Rhimes, Issa Rae, Gabrielle Union and Jada Pinkett Smith.
Okay, I’m really done.
Instagram:
Comments