I started writing on my 29th birthday in the summer of 1969. It was a novel titled "A Class of Leaders," based on my teaching experience at an all Black high school in South Central Los Angeles. This book set the tone for all my future writing in that I write mainly from experience. I wrote the first draft of "A Class of Leaders" in a few months and it took me two more years to revise and finish it. So far I've written 12 books.

Going through the long process of trying to find a publisher or agent for my books and stories was disheartening. Hence, I became an indie author.

My greatest joy in life is to write in my journal. I feel as free as a bird. I can soar, glide, swoop, dive, imagine, feel, think, go back in time, peer into the future or vent my anger. I'm not trying to please anyone but myself. All my books and stories are derived from my journal entries.

There are many great authors in the world, even unknown authors. However, three authors have had a great influence on my writing: Henry Miller, Jack Kerouac and my favorite of all favorites, William Saroyan. All three wrote from their experience, like I do, and all three left their heart and soul on the page.

My writing process is to write as fast as I can, letting it all hang out. I then go back and revise until I'm completely satisfied with what I've written.

My wonderful desk has a large wooden top with metal drawers on either side of it. It's a sturdy desk that used to belong to the U.S. Department of Labor. I bought it for $25 at a Salvation Army store two decades ago. On it is a large computer screen with a keyboard, a printer, a bottle of water if I get thirsty and two large mugs, one filled with pens and pencils, the other with Sharpies. Strewn about my desk are notes and stories that I'm working on.