The great thing about journalism is that there is so much exposure to all kinds of people who can turn up later as characters, whether you intend it or not.

One thing I know that's true about horror fans of any color is they like to be scared. And the easiest place to be scared is in a new thing.

Sure, we think it would be great to live forever, but it really wouldn't.

Somehow, I realized I could write books about black characters who reflected my own experiences or otherworldly experiences - not just stories of history, poverty and oppression.

Fashion is a great thing, it's a way to express who you are.

As a very young writer - kindergarten through about fifth grade - I most often wrote about black characters. My very early stories were science fiction and fantasy, with kids stowing away on spaceships and a girl named Tilly who was trying to get into the 'Guinness Book of World Records.'