Meet Jolanda “Jaewrites” Bostick | Author J.Jae

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jolanda “Jaewrites” Bostick and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jolanda “Jaewrites”, the decisions we make often shape our story in profound ways. What was one of the most difficult decisions you’ve had to make?
The most difficult decision I’ve ever had to make was leaving my marriage after fifteen years, there was no growth. And because there was no growth, I lost myself in the process.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My writing journey has been a bit bumpy but yet rewarding. Life didn’t come with a handbook. As adults, we go through experiences that become relatable so I was eager to write about it. Fear was my biggest issue and procrastination got the best of me. I feared my writing would be mediocre. I had to tell myself that my book will land in the hands of those whom it is meant for. I remember when I used to reach out to other known authors on social media just to inquire on steps of writing a book. I was willing to pay for their time and mentorship. Sadly, my messages were viewed and went without a response. I became a bit discouraged. But when I tell you, Sometimes we overlook the people that are right in front of us to go seek validation elsewhere. An old classmate Shiketa Duberry had been my friend on social media for years. She was already a self-published author. Soon as I contacted her, she welcomed me with open arms. Shiketa took me up under her wing and while mentoring me I was able to publish my first novel “Let Love Happen” The Redemption. Some people come into your life to make it better, that’s exactly what Shiketa did, thanks girl! As a newly self-published author, I released my first novel “Let Love Happen” The Redemption in May of 2019. A write about reality which led to my nomination as Author Of The Year awarded by the Derrick Danzel Days Foundation, I’m forever thankful. In May of 2020, I released UN-INVITED: The Suffering, a novel that sheds light on Mental Health disorders such as anxiety and depression. Maxing out in sales, both books are very profitable. My first erotic short story book, “OH HELL YES!” was released on February 14th of 2021, Yes… On Valentine’s Day. In the beginning, I mentioned that I was soft-spoken. Being that I am very active on social media, I came up with an idea called “Free-write Saturdays.” Free-write Saturdays was thought about off the strength of those individuals who have an issue with expressing themselves. I wanted to be their voice through writing. Every week on a Wednesday, I would make my inbox accessible for those who wanted to message me any respectable topic expressing how they felt. Like a raffle, on Fridays, I would jot down each topic on a separate piece of paper and pick out of a hat choosing a topic to write a short story about. Once the free-write is finished, the individual who could remain anonymous is notified of the free-write being completed. Saturday the short story is then posted on my social media page and made public for everyone to read. My raw talent and way of writing definitely shook the minds of many. Every Wednesday faithfully, I have topics waiting on me. It is definitely an abundance and I am very grateful that my writing is acknowledged. Last but not least, I started a new venture called “The Self-Love Projekt.” I went through a silent period of depression where I lost myself. The Self-Love Projekt was birthed after a fifteen year failed marriage. The way of life can sometimes get us down as individuals and it’s up to us how to deal with it. Under the Self-Love Projekt, I want to host round-table events eventually turning them into seminars hoping to spread awareness about how important it is for us as individuals to have self-love. No matter what we go through in life, always make time for yourself. Neglecting your needs will suck the life right up out of you leaving you mentally, physically and emotionally drained. Let’s all say it together “Me time.” Get up, do your hair, get dressed, get out and treat yourself! We are no good to others if we ain’t no good to ourselves. What sets me apart from other authors is my writing skills. Each author has a unique way of writing. It is up to you to keep the reader interested. It’s up to you how you choose to market your material. A book sale is awesome but my credibility means everything. For those writers who are inspired to become authors, I released a Self-Reflection journal in March of 2021. The Self-Love Projekt, self-reflection journal is designed to promote self-care by allowing individuals to take a few minutes out of their day to recite self-love affirmations that reminds them of how great they are. They are able to write down things as simple as how your day went, your dreams, goals and aspirations. Important events that took place in their lives. Their hobbies, their strengths and weaknesses. Thoughts and feelings along with their favorite quotes. Life is too short, so I encouraged them to write out a bucket list or anything else that they feel is of importance. Always date the pages as a reminder of how far they have grown throughout their writing journey. When their book is full, the writers can make the decision to turn the journal into their very own masterpiece; a memoir, or cherish it as a souvenir, a book full of memories. They are the author over their life. In life I have learned that in order to succeed you have to communicate. The best way to market yourself is through word of mouth. Never be afraid of competition, we all can learn from each other. There is enough money out here for everyone! I will soon be selling shirts, “Books & Beaute’.” A shirt for female authors & inspired writers. I want the world to know that no matter what you go through in life… The best books are written from experience. With all do respect, our past is what made us who we are today. The most Beaute’ful thing about being an author is that the chapters in your book will never end unless you want it too! Let’s write!!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
To be honest, I don’t know many of the hot spots. I’m just learning how to spread my wings myself. Thank God my best friend is from Florida! Lol. But… Bayside in Miami Dade is definitely a good spot. It’s a park full of entertainment, party boats, “The Jungle Queen”, a boat where it takes you out to star Island to see celebrity homes. You could also do a little light shopping, it’s like a mini outside mall. We would definitely hit the Las Olas strip, Fort Lauderdale Beach and then South Beach. All three strips have numerous of retail stores, lounges, restaurants and bars. Why not act as if we are tourists (Whispering… I really am) and go sight seeing while sipping on a frozen drink from Wet Willies or Fat Tuesday’s!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I will like to dedicate my shoutout to Shiketa Duberry Days, my mentor and sisterFRIEND. I searched high and low for someone to answer questions about how to start my writing journey. Shiketa did more than just answer my questions. She held my hand through the process. Shiketa motivated me daily and then sat back and witnessed me bring one of my passions to life in the form of books. Thank you Shiketa! What are family, friends and supporters for? I will like to give a shoutout to those who have been apart of my transition through life, you all never left my side. When I wanted to give up on myself, you guys wouldn’t let me.. Now look at me… I’m blossoming! Thank You. To my supporters, without you all purchasing my books, sharing my posts… My book sales wouldn’t be booming like they are today! You guys are amazing. Thank you. Like I always say, This is only the beginning… Sit back and watch me make some stuff shake!

Website: www.Jaewrites.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/_jaewrites

Facebook: www.facebook.com/Jaewrites

Other: For motivational speaking and or event collaborations please email me The_selflove_projekt@yahoo.com

Image Credits
I would like to thank Shiketa Duberry Days and Jay Covers for my flyers… Adrian Walker for my logo