With the Writer Spotlight Series, we create a positive image for young girls to refer to by having conversations with different writers and illustrators. This month we have been doing Q&As with many writers, to get to know more about them and their work. Here, we are showcasing all the questions we have asked author Leah Osakwe. We discuss her new book, Rock Band: Music and Misfits.
Melissa Gitari and Mattie Whitehead from Little Tiger brought the idea to me, and I’m really happy they did. It was obvious that Galaxy and her bandmates, Sabrina, Zaya and Grace, probably didn’t look like the “typical” rock stars that many people expect to see. So, the inspiration for the story was to celebrate uniqueness, going after your dreams even when there are obstacles in the way, and the beauty of four teenage Black girls paving their own path.
Did you listen to any specific bands or songs while writing?
I listened to a lot of music while writing! I’d never heard of Big Joanie or Nova Twins before writing this book, but their songs were a big source of inspiration for the band, especially because they’re Black women in the punk/rock music scene.
Listening to Alien Superstar by Beyoncé also helped me bring Galaxy’s character to life. It’s all about being out of this world (that’s why she’s called Galaxy!), confident and unique, which is Galaxy all over. I also listened to Avril Lavigne, Queen and quite a bit of screamo (which was a first) to help me capture the sounds, feelings and intensity of the musical scenes in the book.
The book explores identity, friendship, and belonging. What message did you hope readers would take away?
The message I hope readers will take away is that being a “misfit” isn’t as bad as it sounds! It’s what sets you apart and makes you special, and that’s something to embrace. I also want readers to know that you’re not limited to the lane that other people expect you to stay in; you can always create your own. And having supportive friends in your corner is everything.
Outside of writing, what brings you joy or helps you reset creatively?
I absolutely love being at home and doing nothing but eating and watching films or a series. Sometimes my brain needs a break and my body needs a bed day.
What does community mean to you, especially as a creative person?
I think writing books can be quite isolating sometimes. Sometimes, I have to turn down plans to focus on meeting deadlines and be really disciplined with my free time to make sure I get things done. So, having a community can be comforting. It’s good to connect with people who understand what it’s like to have writer’s block, know how it feels to sometimes doubt your abilities, but also share the joy that comes with creating something that’s yours. It’s always encouraging to know that you’re not alone.
Do you have any advice for young writers or creative misfits out there?
You don’t need permission to be creative. Write or create whatever feels
right to you.Dedicate a little bit of time each day to your craft, so it becomes part of your routine. It’ll make tackling that daunting project a bit easier. And even if you think people have heard it all before, don't let that stop you. They haven’t heard it in your voice.
Quick Fire Round
“So many things I’m going through, so much that I wanna do. It’s starting to become so clear to me, tomorrow ain’t really guaranteed.” Why Don’t We Fall in Love by Amerie will never leave my head.
One thing you absolutely cannot write without?
My glasses.
If you could instantly master any instrument, what would it be?
The piano. I used to play it, so I’d love to pick it up again. Maybe when I have
more time!
About the author
Leah Osakwe is the author of the Absolutely Nonny and Little Voices series.
She's always writing—whether that be for apps and digital products, or fiction for children. She lives in Essex, UK.