For our October PREM1ER pick, The Occidental Book of the Dead, we were delighted to put a few questions to T. Geronimo Johnson about his extraordinary new novel.
However, in keeping with the book's distinctive voice and sharp satire, our questions have been answered by none other than da Whizz, the novel's self-proclaimed true author, America's original ghostwriter and the larger-than-life persona through whom Johnson explores the complexities of American history, race and identity.
So, rather than a traditional author Q&A, we're handing things over to da Whizz himself for a rather different perspective on the book...
1: What first sparked the idea for this novel?
Obama. My congregation needed a novel to remind them that civil rights were largely performative and to assure them that my down-low strategies continued to rampage little black brains.
2: How did you approach writing Jonson's relationship with Tucker, particularly given their very different backgrounds?
Easy. Every “Jonson” wants a white friend for Christmas.
3: Was there anything you particularly wanted readers to question about their own assumptions as they moved through the story?
The fear that I will ever be vanquished.
4: What was the most difficult scene for you to write?
Never let them see you sweat!
5: If you could ask your readers one question after they finish the book, what would it be?
Feel better now?
