Charles Leon Fantroy Jr. was born and raised in Washington D.C. His journey
through the trenches of a Federal Penitentiary started at seventeen years old.
He honed and practiced his writing skills during his years of incarceration
behind the four walls of Leavenworth, as a way to express himself. Now at the
conscious age of thirty six, he has finally perfected his true passion, which
is to share his rhythmical array of completed poems, fictional novels, as well
as full length movie scripts. He has continued to educate himself in completing
eighteen months at Stratford University as a certified internet specialist.
Charles Leon Fantroy Jr. is soon to be released from prison where he looks to
delve into a bright future of continuing to write quality novels and movie
scripts as well as being a positive influence to society.
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Thank you
for your time in answering our questions about getting published. Let’s
begin by having you explain to us why you decided to become an author and pen
this book?
Charles: My
journey has been a long one, and through my journey I've documented my thoughts
over the years in a way that some may refer to as spoken word poetry. Initially
the thought of publishing my poems wasn't a thought. But the more and more I've
realized that the words I've penned onto paper can possibly have a
positive influence on someone, at that
second the decision was made to share my thoughts with the world.
Is this your
first book?
Charles: Yes
this is my first published book.
With this
particular book, how did you publish – traditional, small press, Indie, etc. –
and why did you choose this method?
Charles: I am
published through a traditional publication company. I chose JourStarr
Publications not just because the timing was right, but because of the
professionalism in which the company presented themselves.
Can you tell
us a little about your publishing journey?
The pros and cons?
Charles: A
number of years ago I was sought out by a well known publication company, in
regards to one of my novels that I had written. It was a humbling experience,
but inevitably I turned the offer down.
What lessons
do you feel you learned about your particular publishing journey and about the
publishing industry as a whole?
Charles: Well,
I've learned first and foremost, that the first deal from a publication company
isn't always the best deal. I would advise all authors to know their worth in
respects to their body of material. I believe that the publishing industry is
blossoming with promising authors. As long as publication companies don't sacrifice
quantity over quality.
Would you
recommend this method of publishing to other authors?
Charles: Yes, I
would recommend the traditional way of publishing for any one who is
interested. There is nothing at all wrong with self publishing in my eyes. But
if you're dealing with a traditional publication company, you have a broader
outlet in regards to marketing, distribution, and a whole slew of knowledgeable
professionals who are adapt in the field of literary writing.
What’s the
best advice you can give to aspiring authors?
Charles: First,
I would say to believe in yourself, because if you don't believe in your own
craft, how can you expect someone to believe in you. Secondly, don't get
discouraged, continue to write and once that first book is published then
you've completed a spectacular feat, making the journey all worth the while.
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