Interview with Markeise Washington

Jen: This week we welcome Markeise Washington to Book Talk with J & J. Markeise, will you please share a short bio with us.
Markeise: I’m originally from South Philadelphia. I’ve been living in Delaware for a while now. I am a proud father and I would say a workaholic. I have been writing since I can remember. I am an author, publisher, and an entrepreneur. I like to joke a lot but when it comes to business I’m as serious as can be.

Jen: Tell us about Entrepreneur and where it's available for purchase.
Markeise: I am in the process of re-releasing my novel through my company 5ive Star Publications. I had a couple issues and I will have it available for purchase very soon. It will be available through www.5ivestarpublications.com Feb. 2009. The story follows Swift a college graduate trying to break into corporate America. When the doors keep slamming in his face he takes he frustrations to his best friend Block. Block is the most feared hustler in the streets of Philly. When there efforts are combined they both see opportunity. When Block is incarcerated it is at that point when Swift is thrust into the arms of the streets.

Jen: You’re the owner of 5ive Star Publications. Why did you go into publishing? Tell us more about the company.
Markeise: The publishing world takes careful research. I didn’t do mine when I decided to put my book out initially. As a result I winded up taking my bumps and bruises and turning them into a positive. 5ive Star Publications was born to cater to authors without a platform to speak. I wanted to attack every genre. We have contemporary fiction, urban fiction, and children’s literature just to name a few. We are always looking for fresh talent. In 2009 we plan to announce ourselves with the literary world.

Jen: If someone is interested in learning more about the company, who can they contact and what is the website?
Markeise: Anybody interested in the company can go to the website www.5ivestarpublications.com or they can contact the V.P. of 5ive Star Publications at Sharminat@5ivestarpublications.com. All emails are answered and we love to hear feedback.

Jen: Describe your writing in three words.
Markeise: Explosive, Cinematic, and Authentic

Jen: How do you approach your writing? Do you plot or go with the flow?
Markeise: I go with the flow because I used to write in a composition book then take that to my laptop. Now I cut the book out and go straight to the laptop. When I get in front of a computer my creative juices flow and stories are born.

Jen: Do you have a writing routine?
Markeise: I just wait to the house is silent and everybody is asleep. The complete silence clears my mind so I’m able to focus.

Jen: What’s the most challenging aspect of writing? Easiest?
Markeise: The most challenging aspect is to find time to do it! I wear different hats on different days. When I actually get the chance to just write I’m excited. It’s hard because I have to read manuscripts and prep my own. It’s gets hectic but my partners Keith Washington and Sharmina Ellis help me pick up the slack when needed.

Jen: Where do you draw your inspiration?
Markeise: All types of things. I could be watching TV. I could hear something while I’m in the mall. Real life also plays a huge part because things I’ve experienced help me put together some of my work.

Jen: Who are some of your favorite authors and books? What are you reading now?

Markeise: My favorite authors are K’wan and Mary Higgins Clark. My top five favorite books are Addicted by Zane, Nervous by Zane, Eve by K’wan, Pretend You Don't See Her by Mary Higgins Clark, and The Coldest Winter Ever by Sister Souljah. I’m currently reading a new manuscript I plan to hopefully put out next year!

Jen: What's next for you?
Markeise: There are so many things. I have Entrepreneur about to be re-introduced to the reading public in Feb. 2009 as well as the follow up Entrepreneur II: The Transition in 2009. I have A Father’s Struggle to soon follow that. We have Southside Hustler by Rich Mclaughlin coming in Jan. 2009. We also have a children’s book entitled JC and Mr. T coming 2009 from author Gil Trudell.

Jen: Where can you be found on the web?
Markeise: I can be found at http://www.5ivestarpublications.com or http://www.myspace.com/5ivestarpublications.

Jen: Do you have anything you’d like to ask our readers?
Markeise: I would ask the readers to keep a look out for 5ive Star Publications. We plan to be in a bookstore near you!

Jen: Thanks Markeise for being with us and telling us about your new company. Readers, if you'd like to be entered in a contest for a copy of Entrepreneur, leave a comment here before Thursday, Dec 11. Please leave your email address in the post if you are not going to subscribe to the post comments or stopping back by the blog to see if you're a winner.