Creators Unite! Making Diversity a Reality.
All hail the King!
Who is this lovely man? His name is Exile and he is one of the main characters in my upcoming novel A Rainbow Like You.
A TIME OF CHANGE
I started writing the book two years ago, with no idea it would be released in such a time of change. I’m very proud of the story and proud to be part of the “content uprising.”As a Caucasian writer, I’m not considered a diverse voice (as per the definition). But that doesn’t stop me from creating content with diverse voices. We are what we consume and to overcome racial inequality we need to create stories that properly reflect the world we live in.
A Rainbow Like You reflects diversity I not only see in this world, but live every day. My friends are Asian, African, Gay, Latino and First Nations and it felt impossible to write a contemporary novel set in America’s music scene that wasn’t inclusive.
As a result, three of the characters in the book are African American, one is Latino and the other is a kick-ass female LGBTQ+ icon who was an absolute riot to write! I made it crucial to buck the stereotypes so often portrayed and to ensure accuracy, a sensitivity reader reviewed the story. Set against the backdrop of a touring rock band, A Rainbow Like You explores the double-edged sword of ambition, the weight of regret and how our capacity to forgive reconciles our past and future. How thrilling to unveil a book with themes of hope and healing at such a defining moment in history!
WHAT CAN CREATORS DO?
It’s up to all of us creators to INITIATE change. I challenge you to step up to the plate. We are a big part of the solution. Think about the stories we put out there.
PS I’ll be doing book, swag and bonus chapter giveaways in the weeks prior to the book’s release so if you want in on the action, click here!
PSS – Props to the uber-talented Stu Mackay-Smith who created the Exile playing card. He’s your man if you need a top level illustrator. Eternal thanks to director extraordinaire Jason Bourque for connecting us.
