Fourteen-year-old Victoria Jonquil Turner, A.K.A Tori Turner, is working her way to the top. The New Orleans native is an author, entrepreneur, teen queen, motivational speaker, model, and aspiring actress. She recently released her first book, “When I Decided to D.R.EA.M. BIG” along with the “D.R.E.A.M. Journal.”
Tori founded D.R.E.A.M. BIG Foundation at 12 and started her own business, T Star Entertainment Inc, at when she was 13. She has also modeled for different companies and is currently the teen spokesmodel for Diva Couture Cosmetics and Bella Dame Bijoux. As if her schedule isn’t busy enough, Tori also reigns as the 2012 Miss Black Louisiana USA Talented Teen. Tori travels across the country to inspire others kids to go after their dreams.
Tori recently discussed her new book. Check out what she had to say.
What inspired you to write your book?
I was inspired to write “When I Decided to D.R.E.A.M. BIG!” because as I traveled speaking as Miss Black Louisiana USA Talented Teen, I would always be received in such a positive way. Young girls and their Moms would approach me to say how much my words of encouragement on going after your goals and youth empowerment were an inspiration. I decided to write these things down so that my audience would have something to take with them and remember all of the inspiration that I shared. I wanted them to be able to have these inspirations with them always.
Who is your favorite character in the book and why?
The person reading the book is the main character and my favorite character because I want my reader to know that I am speaking directly to them screaming at the top of my lungs letting them know they can be and accomplish anything! God said it! He said we can do ALL things through him!
Who is the intended audience for the book?
My intended audience is young girls between the ages of 10 and 17, although anyone can read it and be inspired at any age.
What do you want the readers to walk away feeling after they have read your book?
I want my readers to walk away from my book feeling empowered to go after any goal or dream. I want them to believe deep down that they can accomplish and be anything that they set there minds to!
What are some of your favorite books?
I absolutely love to read. Right now some of my favorites are the Caster Chronicles, The Uglies Series and Think Big by Dr. Ben Carson. Of course, I have been an avid reader since I was very little so I have read Junie B. Jones, traditional children’s stories, Chronicles of Narnia and even my books that my Mom used to read like Babysitters Club and Sweet Valley Twins.
Who are some of the authors that have influenced your writing?
For this inspirational book, my writing was influenced by so many big dreamers and big thinkers such as Oprah Winfrey, Dr. Ben Carson, Walt Disney, President Obama, Steve Harvey, to name a few. My writing in general is influenced by all of the authors that I read like Sarah Dessen, Scott Westerfield, Kami Garcia, etc.
What are your thoughts on the publishing process and getting your book to the readers?
The publishing process was a lot harder than I thought and I see that getting the book to the reader will be a lot of work also. This is definitely something that you have to be committed to. It’s like I say to my reader…it’s a marathon, not a sprint. You have to stick with it and be in it to win it!
Where is your book available?
Currently it is available for presale on Amazon.com; but it will later be available on Kindle and in paperback via my website, my publisher’s website and I hope in book stores around the US and the world. Of course there will be those opportunities to purchase the book directly from my team at my speaking engagements and book signings. Stay connected to me via social media and via my website to know when I come to a city near you.
How can readers reach you to learn more about your current and future titles?
I am on Facebook - toriturner.biz; Twitter Tori_Turner; Instagram officialtoriturner or you can view my website at www.toriturner.biz
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