Member Spotlight: Tonya Duncan Ellis

Why is writing important to you and why do you think it’s an important medium for the world? Writing is a way for me to communicate my thoughts and feelings and to inspire, entertain, and educate readers. In addition to keeping us updated and informed, recreational reading helps us relax and is a great form of self-care, which is so important during these tumultuous times.

What are your tried and tested remedies to cure writer’s block? When I get stuck during a writing project I like to take a walk or ride my bike. I love to be in nature, and going outside, seeing birds, trees, and sunshine really gets my creative juices flowing.

What is your favorite time to write? Early morning is my favorite time to write. I come up with lots of ideas when I’m sleeping, and I like to write them down as soon as I get up, so I don’t forget them. Waking up super early to work on my writing projects ensures I meet my word count targets without interruption from my family or other obligations.

What’s the best piece of writing advice you’ve ever received and would like to impart to other writers? Don’t wait for the muse to come to write. Block time for your writing and stay consistent with it. Consistency is the key to writing success.

What excites you most about being a writer in today’s age? The ability to reach readers worldwide on a myriad of platforms (social media, virtual events, videos, etc.) excites me most about being a writer in today’s age. I’m also thrilled with the options to have my work seen and published that weren’t available in the past.

Tonya Duncan Ellis’s Sophie Washington: Class Retreat is out now.