Author Spotlight
Antosa Hamilton - Isherwood
How did you become a writer?
From as far back as I can remember and from what my family have told me, I was always with pen and paper in hand sketching, painting, doodling or writing. Creating & all forms of art utterly entrance me so over the years without thought I have organically evolved into a Children's Author/Illustrator & poet
Tell us a bit about what you are working on/writing just now?
My four Children's books were first published in 1992 and sold internationally. Regrettably the publishers failed to honour my contract or to pay me any royalties! (sales of 1st published works 200,000 copies) I was given my legal publishing rights and copyright of all art work and so began my journey to reprint & republish my children's books. Starting from scratch! With ‘Don’t Run Rhino’
You’re registered on our Live Literature database to carry out events in the community – why do you think it is important that you meet your readers?
My ethos is in spite of life’s circumstances ‘I shall, I will become whatever I want to be because I can!' I want to share this and think my events encourage and inspire people to take that leap and create something.
Do you have a favourite project that you’ve taken part in?
Yes! A Unique 20th Century 16,000 kilometre Epic East and Central African Exploration, Safari & Adventure of a life time. As a lone parent I set out with my 4 sons on an East and Central Africa 20thCentury Expedition, stopping and exploring the wonders of East and Central Africa - one of the first white women to ever have done so. Completely unforgettable and naturally it informs and inspires much of my work. This year I'm very honoured to be promoting at literary events in conjunction with the National Library of Scotland the Celebratory Bicentenary of Dr David Livingstone's birth.
What three things make a great event?
- Real,
- Honest,
- Most of all whatever you do must always come from your heart! Events must always inspire so that anyone leaving can think ‘What do I want to really do with my life? And yes I can accomplish whatever that may be’! To spark inspiration in anyone for me is the essence of making a great event.