RUN received a 4+ star review, making it an IndieReader Approved title.
Following find an interview with author M.A.N.
What is the name of the book and when was it published?
The name of the book is RUN and it was published on October 24th of last year (2017).
What’s the book’s first line?
Run’s first line is more of a character statement, introducing the eldest brother of two that star in this tale of racial discrimination and survival.
“My name is Jabari Wilson, a 17 year old kid who was in the wrong place at the wrong time.”
What’s the book about? Give us the “pitch”.
RUN is about two brothers, Jabari and Jaheem, who are forced to flee after barely surviving a police stop gone horribly awry. With their lives on the line for a crime they never committed, they must make their way out of the country while they desperately avoid being recognized by law enforcement.
What inspired you to write the book? A particular person? An event?
RUN was an idea that popped into my head a long time ago. ‘Driving while Black’ and police discrimination have been issues for as long s I’ve been alive. Recent events highlighted in the media only helped it come to fruition and to the forefront of my pending projects. I felt it was a story that needed to be told and read from a certain point of view that I hoped to provide.
What’s the main reason someone should really read this book?
To gain perspective with and empathize with victims of systemic racism, especially when it’s carried out by the police. Also to read a book that entertains them while not stretching too far out of the bounds of reality and presents a real-life situation in a different light, that will keep them on the edge of their seats.
What’s the most distinctive thing about the main character? Who-real or fictional-would you say the character reminds you of?
Jabari is a prime example of the phrase ‘my Brother’s Keeper’, in that almost everything he does is for his brother, Jaheem’s sake. He also has some intelligence and tries to think things through, and like all ‘good’ people, wants to do so with as little violence as possible. He’s simultaneously protector, thinker, and resolution specialist all in one. As an anime nerd, I’d relate him to the likes of Itachi Uchiha or the 4th Raikage from Naruto, based entirely on how he puts his brother first. For more popular culture, I’d say he’s similar to a Captain America with how he tries to avoid fighting when possible and will do anything for his most treasured people.
When did you first decide to become an author?
I decided to become an author around 2011 when I noticed (was told) that I had a talent for it. That’s when I wrote a collection of short stories that I combined into a book (10 Great Tales of M.A.N.) and my first novel, Blade Forged in Darkness.
Is this the first book you’ve written?
No, it’s my third, after Blade Forged in Darkness and He Who Leads, both action fantasy/sci-fi novels that were well-received by the public.
Is there something in particular that motivates you?
I just want to tell my story (the stories that pop into my head) and take pride in seeing the end result and creating both worlds and characters for others to enjoy.