Today’s author is talented and multi-faceted. I’ve been proud to call her a friend and mentor for many years.
Rachel Berry is a word-fairy in love with the power of expression and feels blessed to be a creation of God, crowned with many royalties such as mother, wife, grandmother, daughter, best friend, aunt and so much more. Berry feels her work as an author, poet, radio talk show host, motivational speaker, community leader and book publisher are all a part of her life’s journey. Rachel says she’s excited to see where her feet are guided to next.
Where do we find you on the web?
http://www.rachelberry.webs.com/
What’s your current release? Other books available? 
My current release is Family Pictures. I am also the author of From the Heart and Heat of Me, a chapbook of poetry & prose. It’s also an interactive journal.
What’s your next project?
I’m working on a few things1. another collection of poetry 2.wo,a collection of short stories and 3. Another mainstream novel entitled Between the Tears and the Laughter.
Was there a moment that told you “I’m a writer”?
Not really, I’ve been writing stories, songs, plays and biblical speeches since elementary school so I guess I just grew into it.
How did you get starting in writing?
My mother – I was trained to be a bible student at an early age, this included doing what the religion called “ministry school assignments” where you’d be on stage and conducted a prepared speech with another person. I liked to make up my own.
Name the three qualities you think a good writer must possess. Which do you think you have?
I think there is a multitude of qualities needed but if I must pick three they’d be imagination, dedication, and the love for words. I feel I have all three, especially imagination. My mind takes me on some unexpected journeys sometimes.
What kind of activities do you do to clear your head?
I write poetry, work on a web page or create something either with my hands or on the computer. Or I’ll read a great book, go out to dinner, the movies or pick up my granddaughters and spend some time with them.
What are some of the other ways you express your creativity?
I like to make up gift baskets, frame & wrap poetry in material as gifts, decorate a room, create memory books for other people, and participate in poetry slams, event planning or hosting an event for someone.
That will certainly keep you busy!
In what way have writing friends or mentors helped you?
It’s always great to watch and learn what others are doing. Seeing or listening to other artists helps me better my craft and gives me inspiration and ideas. Also I always ask for criticism because someone always telling you that you’re good isn’t going help you correct your shortcomings.
Describe what you think a reader will learn about you after reading your book?
Probably that I’m a little crazy. But definitely that I like to tell a story that shows the challenges and celebrations, shortcomings and growth of my characters. I do this especially highlighting ordinary women doing extraordinary things.
What are you currently reading? What author(s) do you admire?
Right now I’m reading Eric Jerome Dickey’s “The Other Woman,” “Shame on It All” by Zane, and “Ms Understanding” by RL Taylor. I admire Alice Walker, Maya Angelou, Mary Higgins Clark, Eric Jerome Dickey…gosh there are so many.
Just for fun: If money were no object, what would you do?
Write, travel, dine out and then write about my travels and dining adventures.
Sounds like something I’d enjoy too! Thank you for sharing some time with readers of my blog. If anyone has questions or comments for Rachel about her work, please leave them in the comment section.
July 6, 2009 at 3:03 pm
Hey, ladies! I’m dropping in to say hi. If we can post any other book-related goodies, you know how to reach us.