We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Aminata Coote. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Aminata below.

Aminata, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Learning the craft is often a unique journey from every creative – we’d love to hear about your journey and if knowing what you know now, you would have done anything differently to speed up the learning process.

Canvas Rebel Interview – January 17, 2025

Q: How did you learn to do what you do?

A: I’ve always loved writing, and English Language and Literature were my “easy” subjects in school.

When I decided I wanted to become a writer, I read articles about writing, bought courses and books, listened to podcasts and YouTube videos, attended webinars, conferences, and online training, and listened to authors who were already successful. But one of the best things I did (and do) to get better is to keep writing.

There’s still so much I don’t know or can improve, so I spend time each week (sometimes daily) learning more about my craft.

Q: Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process?

A: I would have written more when I was younger—even when the story got hard, I would have finished it. I also would have joined author communities.

Q: What skills do you think were most essential?

A: A writer needs many essential skills, but one of the major ones is consistency. When we create a habit of writing, learning, improving the craft, and learning more about the business, our efforts will pay off in time.

Q: What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?

A: For a long time, it was the accessibility of information. I live in the Caribbean and a lot of things are not available to me here. But thankfully, the internet has made a lot of things more accessible.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I’m a Christian contemporary romance, devotional, and Bible study author. I started writing when a classmate suggested I’d read so many books that I should be able to write one. I took it as a challenge. That was my second year of high school and I haven’t looked back.

I write stories about flawed people who come in contact with an awesome God and are changed for the better.

My novels feature people of color pursuing their goals, achieving success, and finding love.

I write for the woman who loves a good romantic story but wants one without the open-bedroom door scenes. They’ll find stories that remind them love conquers all, and will encourage them in their faith.

I hope my books will inspire readers to go after their dreams and improve their relationships with God.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?

Non-writers assume I control my characters and should be able to “tell” them what to do. That’s not quite how it works.

While I create the backstory and traits, etc, there comes a point when the characters become real to me.

When they do, I may have an idea for a direction I want to take with the story but can’t force the characters to do it. And yes, I know how strange that sounds. But when you try to force them, readers will realize the character is not being authentic.

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

I’m still building my reputation by focusing on consistency. I want my readers to know that when they pick up one of my novels, they’ll get a character they can relate to.

The characters will have a spiritual journey and fall in love.

When they read one of my nonfiction books, I aim to edify them and reveal an aspect of God’s character.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://aminatacoote.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aminatacoote/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AminataCoote
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@AminataCoote
• Other: BookBub https://tinyurl.com/AminataCooteBookBub

  Goodreads https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/17239871.Aminata_Coote

  Amazon Author Page https://www.amazon.com/stores/Aminata-Coote/author/B0773CSDKG