The Diary of Hakim Jones is a fascinating character story about the obstacles a person faces when growing up in the inner city. What was your inspiration for the character and stories in the novel?

The Diary of Hakim Jones is basically my life story with some fiction added. Most of these experiences I write about in this book are based upon similar experiences I have been through in my life. I hope to inspire the young men and women in our urban areas to never give up on their goals no matter how hard the road ahead may seem and I also hope to make those who are not familiar with the inner cities aware of the many hardships and struggles that go on in communities where the educational system has failed, along with a depleted economic system, and the loss of just basic family and community values.

This story is about a boy growing up in Newark, NJ. The background for the story I felt was well done. How are you familiar with Newark and New Jersey?

I grew up in Newark NJ and still live their today. I am also an employee for the city of Newark. I believe readers who have grown up in the inner cities around the country can relate to my book.

This story is told in a diary format. Why did you choose to tell the story in this format? How did that play into your development of the character?

The story is written in diary form because at first I was just writing down random events that had taken place in my life. But then I thought to myself, why not write the book in a diary (format) so that I could make it possible for readers (to feel like) they are watching a movie while reading my book.

What is the next book that your fans can expect to see from you and when is that coming out?

I want to try something a little different for my next novel. I was thinking about a possible inner city horror story. As a writer I want to be able to diversify my books so I can appeal to a wide range of readers. I have already started working on it so hopefully it will be done within the next year

Life in the hood is tough; violence and drugs are everyday realities, and motivation to change can be hard to come by. The Diary of Hakim Jones is a gritty story of a young man who grew up in one of the most violent neighborhoods in America, but he finds out that through vision and perseverance, he can escape to a different life, one he would never have dreamed possible. Enlightening and inspiring for all readers, The Diary of Hakim Jones is especially meaningful to anyone who grew up in a rough environment, showing that a good work ethic and the will to succeed can break through seemingly impossible barriers. Realistic, motivational, and hard-hitting, this true-to-life novel will inspire you to see past your limitations.