What inspired you to write Hurricane Summer?
AB: Hurricane Summer is inspired by all the young women who didn’t feel a sense of protection growing up. I wanted to write a story that brought awareness to the safe spaces we need to create for young women who are figuring out their sexual agency. I was really driven by the father-daughter dynamic, and with this book, I wanted to explore how that relationship could shape the course of a young woman’s life. Tilla is no longer protected by the chastity of girlhood, and we see how quickly society weaponizes her sexuality, and how her pleasure is used for her persecution. Hurricane Summer is a celebration of a young woman’s pleasure and agency, by following her journey in how she reclaims herself and takes it back.
What is your favorite thing about being a writer?
AB: I love how writing gives me the ability to free my own voice. Too often as creatives, we have to wait for others to tell us that our voice is worthy of being heard. I think that idea is really changing, especially right now, when we look at who is “allowed” to tell stories. I love how much power speaking up has given me over my life. I hope I can continue to do that and inspire others to use their voices as well.
What is the book that inspired you to want to become an author?
AB: Tomi Adeyemi’s Children of Blood and Bone,hands down. Tomi was the example for me that you can do anything you put your mind to. She was an incredible mentor to me, and a huge champion for me believing in myself. I hope to pay it forward and be that example for others. We are all worthy.
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