We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Nathan Jarelle a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Nathan, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today The first dollar you earn is always exciting – it’s like the start of a new chapter and so we’d love to hear about the first time you sold or generated revenue from your creative work?
My first book sale happened at a post office. I was carrying around a copy of my first novel, Beyond Poetry, when a cashier noticed its cover and asked if I had one to spare. I didn’t at the time, but my house was a mile away (laughing). I jetted home, grabbed an extra copy and returned to the post office and completed my first sale. The book was $15, but the clerk gave me $20 and told me to keep the change. To be honest, it wasn’t really about the money. I was just so thrilled that someone took notice of my book and wanted to support me. I still have that $20.
Nathan, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
I am an author, speaker and poet from the Washington, D.C. area (a.k.a. DMV). I’m currently working on a series entitled Beyond Poetry, and I’m releasing the third book in 2024 and hopefully many more in the coming years.
How did you build your audience on social media?
It’s nice to post stuff about my successes here and there, but I also try to give something valuable for my readers. Every so often, I post a poem, quote or some food for thought.
Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?
I don’t have any expectations when it comes to this journey other than continuing to write books. I’m not doing it for the money, fame or acclaim. Telling stories that resonate with my readers is my bottom line. I am a true artist at heart, hoping to get better at my craft.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.natejayreads.com
- Instagram: author.natejay
- Facebook: Iamnatejay