So, what have you written?
I currently have a blog site where I publish inspirational writings for my readers. Some are in the form of poetry while most are thoughtful life lessons anyone can use. While it is a Christian site, the information is quite practical which makes some pieces relatable even for unbelievers.
The same applies to the Fresh Manna posts (words of wisdom/encouragement) shared on social media (Facebook, Twitter). I currently released Fresh Manna: A 40 Day Journey to Your Promise and a New Beginning with God, which is a 40 day devotional/personal growth book.
Where can we buy or see them?
Fresh Manna, A 40 Day Journey is currently available online through Amazon, Barnes & Noble Books-A-Million and other online retailers, to include Amazon international platforms. The blog posts are on www.shawandarandolph.com
Readers can follow me on Facebook: www.facebook.com/randolph_Freshmanna
Give us insight into your main character
Fresh Manna’s main character is the reader. The book is based on the Israelites’ Exodus Journey as they were released from captivity, discovering their identity in God, learned to live in covenant with Him, and ultimately entering into their Promised Land. Fresh Manna, takes the reader on their personal journey over a course of 40 days. During this time they get to rediscover their identity in God and strengthen/establish their covenant with Him. It challenges the readers to reflect upon their beliefs and seek their promises from God.
When did you decide to become a writer?
I believe writing kind of chose me. I cannot say that I dreamed of becoming a writer although I have always thought of having my personal story written one day. I truly believed this would have been my first and only book, which I was in the process of writing when I began Fresh Manna. Now, I am realizing there are many other items I will eventually publish. Perhaps, Fresh Manna ignited something I was unaware existed.
Were you good at English?
Funny story. I enjoyed English and writing papers were a breeze for me but I admit, I would always just write last minute and still end up with good grades. Freshman year of college, my professor called me lazy. He had me sit outside of his office and rewrite a paper, after having a long talk with me about my lack of effort. He was the only one to call me out and challenge me, so I worked harder for him.
Do you believe in writer’s block?
Absolutely! Currently, I am in seminary school so, we are constantly writing. Last summer, while finishing Fresh Manna, I was also tasked with writing creative pieces for a class. In addition, I had four major papers to write. I shared with my cousin, that I felt that the “bank” was empty. I had nothing left to give. There was no way I could possibly write that much at once on different areas. Learning to take breaks and finding what keeps your inspired is the key to getting through the blocks. I spent some time sitting on the beach and in prayer. Just me and God on the shore. That’s how it all worked out.
Do you read your book reviews? How do you deal with bad or good ones?
I am actually looking forward to reading reviews from readers. So far, readers have not shared their thoughts but I highly encouraged them to. I welcome all reviews. If a reader disagrees with an area of the book or dislikes an area, I would like to know what that is and why rather than simply they disliked it.
I have had positive (verbal) feedback from some people and have encouraged them to share any and all feedback on Amazon if they desire.
Do you Google yourself?
Yes. So, I have learned to Google myself before publishing my book. This had more to do with understanding employment and internet findings. I was in the military so I was always mindful of what would come up in a Google search. Now, when I Google my name, it is exciting that my name fills up a page. It is either about my blog, book, or my travel business. Sometimes, my Air Force career comes up with old interviews or articles. Pretty awesome.
What are you currently working on?
I currently have two items I started working on but are nowhere near completed. Both require much more research before turning into actual manuscripts and publishing. One, I can share. It deals with some of the common things we see, do, or hear in church, where these things derived from and how they have been taken out of context. The purpose is to correct habits and build stronger theological foundations and Biblical principles. It is a work in progress.
What does literary success look like to you?
Of course, it would be great to sell tons of books. I mean, what author would not want to make money selling their books or have their book on a best sellers list, right?
Seriously, If I sold 1000 books but my readers were not impacted by what they read, I would not consider that a success. For me, it is not the number sold rather the number of readers impacted by what they have read that equates success. This is also another reason I would love to see reviews. It is great to see the book is selling but more important to hear how the reader’s journey is coming along.
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About the Author
Shawanda R. Randolph retired from the United States Air Force after 20 years of service. God would use her keen sense of wisdom, insight, and innate leadership skills, to help guide, direct, and influence those around her, especially those in leadership and potential leadership positions. It was her discipline, worth ethic, and problem-solving skills that led both superiors and fellow associates to depend on her counsel. As, a result, many flourished under her advisement and mentorship. Even then, she understood that it was God who gave her the courage and desire to watch others walk their God-given paths in and outside of the military.
Once Shawanda received this revelation, she understood what would be an essential concept to her ministry: Identity. She knew that once people discovered who they were in God, they would be more effective leaders. She learned that people often separated their professional, personal and spiritual lives. However, as God used her life as a model, He showed her that the three were inter-connected. He used everything he called her to be to propel her into the ministry full-time.
Shawanda holds an MBA in Health Care Administration from Wilmington University and currently pursuing a Master’s in Theology and Ministry with Fuller Theological Seminary. She is the proud mother of one very special son.
At “Fresh Manna” she offers prayers, wisdom, and prophetic instruction on some of the most pressing issues in society today. Fresh Manna’s mission is to not only to nourish the soul of the lost, and replenish those who have accepted Jesus into their hearts but build the next generation of God’s leaders.
She recently published Fresh Manna: A 40 Day Journey To Your Promise and New Beginning With God, currently available on shawandarandolph.com, Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books-A-Million and other online retailers.
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