Karissa Hubbard is a woman of God with a kind heart, a coach, and a Children’s author, who loves her family and friends and wants to glorify the kingdom of God. We enjoyed having this Author Interview – Karissa Hubbard for our blog. Check out this fantastic author and follow them for more amazing stories.
Karissa S. Hubbard resides in Houston, TX, where she is a coach, an internationally-certified Christian counselor, an inspirational speaker, and an author. Karissa holds a B.A. in Journalism with a double emphasis in Print and Broadcast from Arkansas Tech University.
She loves God and strives to live a life that glorifies His name every day. Her first publication, The Popular Girl, has won her the Top Expressionist Award from Broadcast Houston and the Most Outstanding Alumni award from Arkansas Tech University.
She has also been interviewed by Voyage Houston and The Doing Far More Show on Eyeconic Television while traveling around the state speaking on her work. In 2022, she was named one of the Top 30 Influential Women: Movers and Shakers by K.I.S.H. Magazine.
When did you start writing?
I started writing at a very young age, and I can remember being in preschool and asking my mom for a Lisa Frank journal. I am not sure what I was writing, but that definitely started my writing journey.
What was it like growing up?
I grew up wanting to be “the first girl in the NBA.” Basketball has always been my first love, and I spent every day playing it. At the age of 13, I was diagnosed with a kidney disease that shook up my and my family’s world. That would be the first time I got to really understand who God would be in my life. Life always has its adversities, but it is what makes your journey yours.
How was your early life?
I grew up very close with my family. I saw my grandma every day and my cousins as well. We are a basketball family, so I was always watching one of my aunts or playing myself.
What has been the biggest influence in your career?
My biggest influence has been my niece, she is who the main character is named after, and I just wanted her to have an outline as she grows up. I want her not to chase popularity but be ok with exactly who she is.
Tell us about your newest release.
My newest release was The Popular Girl: First Communion; it is about a young lady who is partaking in Communion for the first time and the twists and turns that interfere with it. It is a fun read for all ages.
Which book of yours would you call your favorite child?
Definitely First Communion. I just think the story is so cute, but it also gives a clear message we all can learn from.
What inspired you to write this book?
My athletic coordinator at the time, Everett White, who is also a minister, came up to me one day and said, “I want you to write a book about a hood rat and a Church mouse,” and I did!
What are you usually found doing when you’re not writing?
I am usually taking a nap or hanging with my family and friends or somewhere in the gym.
What does your writing space look like?
It looks different. Sometimes it’s my bedroom; sometimes, it is a coffee shop. Wherever I can get my creative juices flowing is where the magic happens.
If you wrote your autobiography, what would you name it?
Karissa Explains It All
How long did it take to write your novel, and what was your process?
It took me maybe a week. I am big on just write the story first; then, you can go back and make changes. So, I usually try to write it all in one setting and get my thoughts out, then tweak it from there.
Favorite reads?
Honestly, I’m a big supporter of my friends, so anything my friends have written, I enjoy reading.
Do you have any book recommendations?
Mentoring strategies for African American males
What’s your next big project?
My next big project is Book #3. I hear so many males that think The Popular Girl isn’t for them, so I’m trying to create something that can be for everyone. I am also planning a Popular Girl Brunch in my city.
Do you have any advice for aspiring authors?
I would say if you are an aspiring author, write the book! You never know who needs to hear your story or who you can inspire. Just always do it for the right reasons.
Follow Karissa
Https://authorkarissahubbard.square.site/
Instagram @authorkarissahubbard
YouTube https://youtube.com/@KarissaExplainssItAll
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