Exclusive Interview With Author "Nicole Draffen"
Meet our author - a dynamic and curious individual who is always on the lookout for new challenges and opportunities to learn. With a passion for tearing things apart and understanding their inner workings, our author has become a master at fixing and building things from scratch.
Traveling the world and exploring new cultures has always been a source of inspiration for our author. The social and cultural consciousness of the people they meet, and the things they observe, constantly fuel their natural inclination to understand and study the value of cultural norms. These experiences have culminated in a book that promises to be both insightful and thought-provoking.
But that's not all there is to our author. When they're not busy changing the world, you can find them in their garden tending to a vast array of plants, or practicing Feng Shui on everything in sight. They're also an avid collector of old paintings, a lover of jazz festivals, and an enthusiastic antiquer. Running is another one of their passions, and they believe that with determination and a positive attitude, anyone can achieve their dreams.
In short, our author is a multi-talented individual with a zest for life and a thirst for knowledge. Their unique perspective and boundless energy make them an exciting addition to any conversation or project.
Tell us a bit about yourself and your background in writing.
My name is Nicole Draffen, and I'm a writer, educator, and expert on issues related to cultural identity. I have a background in writing that stretches back to my childhood, when I first discovered the power of words to convey emotions and ideas. As I grew older, my passion for writing deepened, and I began to explore different forms and genres, from poetry to fiction to nonfiction.
Who or what was the inspiration behind your book?
The inspiration for my book, "Hyphened Nation," came from my own experiences as a person with a hyphenated cultural identity. I wanted to explore the challenges and opportunities that come with having a foot in two different cultural worlds, and to offer guidance and support to others who may be navigating similar experiences.
Have you gotten any feedback about your book so far? If so, what are readers saying?
I've been thrilled to receive positive feedback from readers who have found my book insightful, thought-provoking, and empowering. Many have shared their own stories of struggling with their cultural identities and have expressed gratitude for the practical advice and guidance I offer in the book.
What were the biggest challenges you faced while writing your book?
One of the biggest challenges I faced while writing my book was staying true to my own experiences and perspectives while also being mindful of the many different ways that mixed-race and hyphenated identities can manifest. I wanted to offer a nuanced and inclusive perspective that honored the diversity of experiences within the hyphenated community.
What surprised you the most about writing your book?
One thing that surprised me about writing my book was how much I learned about myself and my own cultural identity in the process. As I delved deeper into my own experiences and interviewed others with similar backgrounds, I gained a deeper appreciation for the richness and complexity of cultural identities.
What did your journey to publication teach you about yourself as a person?
My journey to publication taught me a lot about resilience, determination, and the importance of staying true to one's own vision and voice. There were times when I felt discouraged or uncertain, but I kept pushing forward, knowing that my message was important and needed.
What do you hope readers will gain from your book?
I hope that readers will gain a greater understanding and appreciation for the complexities of cultural identity, and that they will feel empowered to embrace and celebrate their own unique backgrounds. I also hope that my book will inspire greater empathy and understanding across cultural divides.
Do you have any advice for those who are interested in publishing their own book?
My advice for those interested in publishing their own book is to stay true to your own voice and vision, and to persevere through any setbacks or obstacles that come your way. Surround yourself with supportive and knowledgeable people who can help guide you through the process, and don't be afraid to take risks and try new things.
Where can readers purchase your book or connect with you online?
"Hyphened-Nation" is available for purchase on Amazon and other online retailers, and readers can connect with me on my website, www.hyphened-nation.com, or on social media.
Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I'm grateful for the opportunity to share my perspective and experiences with others, and I hope that my work will help to build bridges across cultural divides and create a more inclusive and understanding world.
