Home is Where the Story is: Joanne Hillhouse on the Importance of Roots in her Writing

In this episode of Badass Black Girl, M.J. talks with Joanne Hillhouse, writer and educator, and author of seven books of fiction. They discuss which genre(s) she prefers, her writing process, and the moment she knew she had talent as a writer. They also discuss imposter syndrome, and how it can be a driving force. M.J. and Joanne talk about their individual notions of success and what that means to them and the value of networking. They discuss Joanne’s connection to Antigua and how it grounds her writing. This leads to a far-reaching discussion of books they both read as children and what they are both reading right now, as well as the importance and emergence of global Black literature. M.J. also asks Joanne what’s next for her in terms of projects she is looking to complete.

Antiguan and Barbudan author Joanne C. Hillhouse is the author of seven books of fiction – children’s picture books Lost! A Caribbean Sea Adventure, With Grace, and The Jungle Outside; teen/young adult books Musical Youth and The Boy from Willow Bend; and adult contemporary novels Dancing Nude in the Moonlight and Oh Gad!. Joanne has also been published in numerous journals and anthologies including NAACP Image award-nominated New Daughters of Africa, critically acclaimed Pepperpot: Best New Stories from the Caribbean, and African American Literary Award winning Letter for My Mother. Also check out her literary blog here, home of the Wadadli Pen writing program for young people that Joanne started in Antigua and Barbuda in 2004.