The authors and panelists of the Bronx Book Festival responded to personal questions about their lives, the writing process, and current literary inspirations. To see their panels and hear more about their books, RSVP for the Bronx Book Festival below.

LORRAINE AVILA

AUTHOR OF MALCRIADA

Why did you become an author?

I’ve always been a writer. Challenging myself to put my stories out there felt like the right move to own my voice and my writing style. 

What are you reading right now?

Lots of poetry—currently If They Come For Us by Fatimah Ashgar—and short stories by Zora Neale Hurston and Octavia Butler.

Have you ever been to the Bronx? If so, what's a favorite memory you have? If not, what do you know or think about the Bronx?

I was born and raised here. My favorite memories have been walking out of my neighborhood, walking down the block to the four train on “good days,” and knowing I am worthy. And if I am worthy everything and everyone around me is too.

 What is a quote you live by?

"If you are silent about your pain, they'll kill you and say you enjoyed it." —Zora Neale Hurston