Monday, October 19, 2020

Interview - The Queen of Harlem Commandments by Michelle Smalls



- What is your “day” job if you are not a full time author?

I am an influencer, serial entrepreneur, real estate broker, owner of multiple investment properties, and a philanthropist. For well over a decade, I have been a social impact leader focusing most of my work on servicing the youth in my community.

- If you wrote a book about your life what would the title be?

The Queen of Harlem Commandments

- What is the hardest thing about being an author?

I believe when you're writing from a place of truth and authenticity, you're blessed to face little to no challenges. Because I wrote this at my own pace it was more like therapy than writing a book. I was blessed with a seamless process. 

- What is the best thing about being an author?

You get to write your truth and your able to inspire and/or empower your demographics

- What book changed your life?

The Bible


- What were some of your favorite books growing up?

Maya Angelou ‘I know why the caged birds sing’

- What books are currently in your to be read pile?

Becoming by Michelle Obama


- Which do you prefer eBooks, print, or audio books?

 Print

 
- If you could live inside the world of a book or series which world would it be and why?

I'll relive Chapter 12 of my very own book " Love With Your Mind and Not Your Heart”

Throughout my entire book, this chapter stretched me the most. The growth I experienced during that season of my life was monumental for me. I faced my pain head on and eventually grew from the pain that I was experiencing. Love is such a touchy subject for me. I allowed myself to hurt, fall and now I'm better than ever! It will be an honor to RELIVE those moments again from the bliss to the pain.

                     

The Queen of Harlem Commandments 
Michelle Smalls

Genre: Biographical Fiction 
Publisher: Michelle Smalls
Date of Publication: August 18th 2020
ISBN: 979-8674253112
ASIN:  B08FW293RG
Number of pages: 218
Word Count: 42,000

Book Description: 

The Queen of Harlem Commandments is the first book by Michelle Smalls, a Harlem powerhouse who turned her pain into prosperity by following a code of conduct she first learned living the life of a street boss. Ms. Smalls's journey is not unlike many young women of color living in the inner cities that learn early in life how to rise above pain, loss, and disappointment.
 
Through it all, the Queen made no excuses. Instead, she made commandments.

This book shares Ms. Smalls' moments of heartache, triumphs, betrayal, and disloyalty. She believes in order to survive and be successful in the hustle of life, you must respect the Code and follow the Commandments.





Excerpt 

NEVER TAKE YOUR SHOES OFF.

"I remember when you didn't have shit, and your bed was on the floor," said my son's father.

I am sharing my story because not all that glitters is gold. Do you think you want to walk in my shoes? Let me tell you, my inner soles (from the little pink pumps to my Fendi boots) have nothing but tears, pain, and disappointments. My teenage years and early twenties were not the brightest. I dealt with plenty of hurt and deception.

Yes! I once was a bum. Yes! I have a criminal history. Yes! I've done things I am not proud of in life. But something I learned early in life: The best thing you can do in life is to accept your past. Once you fully accept the turmoil and embarrassment, no one can use it against you. You will have the confidence, courage, and strength to stand within your very own power. You will inevitably build your character and your life commandments.

My son's father's expression about me was 100% facts! There was a moment in my life when my bed was on the floor, and I did not have shit. His words were unable to penetrate me because I've grown to be emotionally detached and accept my past. His goal was to humiliate me in public in front of a crowd of millions, at the club while shooting a reality series. We were in front of the producers and executives, and yet I was able to laugh it off. Some shit is not even worth my attention! I didn't even entertain him with a response.

I went from sleeping on the floor to owning a $700,000 home, multiple investment properties, owning businesses, becoming a real estate broker in multiple states, and a philanthropist. My accomplishments came from being focused, hardworking, and determined to "Never take my shoes off."

I am Michelle Smalls also known as the Queen of Harlem.

You think you know me, but you have no idea!

Welcome to my journey.



About The Author:

Michelle Smalls is known as “Queen of Harlem” to many in the community. Michelle’s goal is to put smiles on the faces of young people, by way of giving back to the community at large. Michelle is an influencer, serial entrepreneur, real estate broker, and philanthropist. For well over a decade, Michelle smalls, as a social impact leader, has always placed a high priority on youth and the community.

Michelle intuitively sees the needs and desires of her community, as an inspirational leader who focuses on problem-solving. She takes full action and hosts outstanding charity events like her Christmas Toys and Coats drive, Community Halloween party, Back to school drive, preparing teens for their proms, and having an all-girls basketball team.

Ms. Smalls is a pillar in the Harlem community. She is transforming the lives of our youth by empowering them with love and opportunities that could build a tighter bond in our lifetime.
 



  




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