Danette Majette was born in Long Branch, New Jersey, and moved to Norfolk, Virginia when she was five. After graduating from high school and going into the U.S. Marine Corps, Danette's love for fashion led her to Nordstrom where she worked as a manager. It was there that she was advised be a friend and co-worker to write her first novel "I Shoulda Seen It Comin' which debuted in 2005. She followed this success two years later with her second novel 'Deep" which successfully made the Essence Magazine bestseller list in 2008.
Danette currently resides in Maryland with her two children, Bryan Majette and Marketa Salley. Marketa is a featured author in 'Teenage Bluez II'. A series of urban short stories written for and by teens. Her third novel 'Good Girl Gone Bad' is set to be released in April 2009.
Ella: Danette please introduce us to your new book.
My new book "Good Girl Gone Bad" is about three married women who are all at the same time faced with financial hardships. They need money and they need it quick so they come up with a scheme that insures them a big pay day until their flawless plan goes completely up in smoke. This is a book that will feel so real to the average reader considering we’ve all had hardships at one time or another, the differences show up in how we chose to deal with the issue.
Ella: Finish this sentence: I am Powerful because...
I am Powerful because...I have proven that you can take negative experiences in life and turn them into positive ones.
Ella: What makes your book stand out and would entice a reader pick it up?
I think my cover and the title of the book will peak the reader's curiosity and entice them to pick my book up. Society has shown us that drama sells, therefore everyone wants to know the story behind what made these good women turn bad. Believe me…it’s a crazy ride!
Ella: Ultimately, what do you want readers to gain from your book?
I’d like for my readers to walk away with a sense of compassion for another woman’s issues. So many of us like to judge, yet we don’t realize we could be the one in that situation. In addition, use Good Girl Gone Bad as a precautionary tale. These ladies found a solution to their problem…just not a legal one. Beware and most definitely…do not follow in their footsteps.
Ella: What is the most surprising thing you have learned in creating books?
I think a lot of people come into this business as I did thinking it's a piece of cake but it really isn't. From the creative aspect to the revising and marketing of the book requires dedication and perseverance. It's even difficult at times. Of course, at the end of the day it's worth it.
Ella: What would you say has been your most significant achievement as a writer?
My second book "Deep" made the Essence Magazine Best Seller List in March 2008. It was a great honor.
Ella: What advice would you give a new writer?
Start by taking some creative writing classes. Also they should read different styles of writing from other authors then craft their own style.
Ella: Name 3 things that it takes to make a successful author, in your opinion?
Commitment, Imagination, and Motivation.
Ella: How may our fans contact you for book signings or speaking engagements?
Danette Majette
P.O. Box 471396
District Heights, MD 20753
Email: dcmajette@gmail.com
Buy Books: www.lifechangingbooks.net
