“The Struggle: Breaking Through”

Interview with writer Christopher Jamaul Jones —

1. Who are you and what do you do?
My name is Christopher Jamaul Jones, mostly known as CJ Jones. Originally from Jackson, Mississippi, though I reside in Central Texas.  I’m a published author, on and off again actor and currently Editor in Chief at Pridebuzz.com.

2. Why writing?
I’ve always been passionate about putting my thoughts and ideas on paper. In middle school, it was more about poetry. Then something weird happened in my early 20’s. I had felt as if I’d gone through enough in life to write a small book. With the goal being to help other people by sharing some of my struggles, I accomplished that the best way I could. Self-publishing was the only option. Fortunately, that move was made and it was the perfect learning experience and setup for what is to come.

3. What is your earliest memory of wanting to be a writer?
My 9th-grade year. Oh! Those memories! Growing up I didn’t have much of a voice. Fairly timid and easily convinced. I’d do some short writings and hide the notebook around the house so nobody would be able to find it and view. At that time I was more into music, a choir boy, so being a writer was a little dream in the back of my mind. A silent one.

4. What are your favorite subject(s) and style(s)?
Preferably narrative. But currently, I’m working on a project that combines both narrative and descriptive. It is important to keep the reader engaged and wondering what the next page – chapter says. To be honest, I only discovered the different writing styles a year ago. Before then I just assumed that writing was, well, simply writing. Which also means I thought everything learned in English class was a lie. However, unlike Algebra, those English classes DID come in handy after all.

5. How do you work and approach your subject?
It depends. When I’m putting together a blog piece I try to form sentences that make sense and totally in regard to one topic at hand. Though when I’m writing pages of a long story, it can get a little crowded and complicated. For example, my most recent title is “Switching: The Origin”. I wanted a story relatable and current. Therefore I used current events like elections, terror attacks, weather conditions to tell the story. It is amazing what REAL LIFE can give you as material. Then I started writing one-night last year, a short story about a guy who discovers a unique ability. Knowing it has been written before, I stopped and thought about how the gift or ability ties into current events. I know all of that sounds a little confusing, but it’s a process in my head. So it makes sense in my head. The reader will get the end result.

6. What are your favorite written works, writers?
Suzanne Collins, K.A. Applegate, Oprah Winfrey, Rhonda Byrne and R.L. Stine – just to name a few. Mostly because they wrote during my upbringing. So the material was at my reach at an early age. From book fairs or the school library.

7. What are the best responses you have had to your work?
Well, that’s a great question! My first book was a bit of a shocker. Only because I mentioned some stuff that made people feel uncomfortable while reading. Other than that, folks are usually clapping or telling me how well spoken I am. I’m not the BEST writer on the planet, by far. But I am a person of substance and ideas. I think my format and flow are great things to showcase.

Christopher Jamaul Jones

8. What do you like about your work?
I like the new direction. Most certainly! This will be my first venture into fiction. I’ve put aside the drama and biography idea to add something better to society. To fairly answer the question, I also enjoy looking at other peoples concepts and material. I’d rather promote someone else before promoting my own. Adding to that, that is exactly what I do at Pridebuz.com. I filter through potential and showcase voices. Originally I was offered a blogging position, which I still hold, but lately, it has been about the NEXT voice. And I absolutely love it. Samaya Montage was the person who saw my writing potential. She leads Pridebuzz.com and I’m grateful for that. That platform is going to be great for the LGBTQ community and supporters.

9. What advice would you give to other writers?
I’d tell other writers, mainly new writers, to follow their fingers. Meaning “just let it flow”! A publication is supposed to be YOUR own. So make it YOUR own. Take a moment to look at the independently published material. Offer advice and offer professional critiques. Unfortunately, I’ve run into some snobby folks. Please, don’t be a snob. Be helpful.

10. Where do you see yourself in 5-10 years?
In five years I see myself on a hit series, going into its season two. Yes! I’m talking about getting back into acting. However, primarily I see myself having a successful fictional book series whilst attending signings across the country! ‘Switching: The Origin’ was scheduled for release on May 8th, 2017, but this has been removed. I do not have the official release date right now, but after sorting a few options for a proper release, I’ll share that date on social media.

Soon to Be Released:

“Switching – The-Origin”

Details —
“A new Urban- Fantasy series is near! Switching: The Origin, follows Avis, a young motivated and self-righteous individual.  While on his journey to find himself, he discovers extraordinary things. One of those things being his ability to communicate, and ultimately transform into select animals. Unable to control his powers at first, Avis, places his family and close friends in the face of danger after an accidental public exposure event.  When a government assigned task force attempts to retrieve Avis, he vanishes to protect the ones he loves. Struggling to distinguish ally from enemy, he finds a group of those like himself. Resurfacing as a team, they stand together with a purpose.”

CJ Jones

LINKS—

Check us out at Pride Buzz:  www.pridebuzz.com
My Most Recent Material is Available on Tumblr:  https://jonesthingz.tumblr.com/
Follow My Instagram! (I’ll Follow Back):  https://www.instagram.com/anti_social_boss/
Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/cjjonesactor

“Art and passion go hand in hand” – with love