Irish Cooper lost her dad at age 10, life was never the same
Irish Cooper grew up in what she called the ‘hood. The Baton Rouge, Louisiana, native was no stranger to abuse, drug deals and murders, including her dad’s, who was taken from her when she was 10 years old. It left “a hole in my heart,” she explains. Cooper’s mother worked at fast-food restaurants trying to make a life for her family.
In 2008, Cooper earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, becoming the first in her family to graduate from college. In 2012, she earned a second bachelor’s degree in the field of psychology. In her memoir, titled Fabricated Looks, Cooper shares what she calls her “tears” and “skeletons.” An aspiring filmmaker, she is currently producing and directing, Behind Closed Doors, a short film documenting her story. Also, she is the founder of Heeling Hearts, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping others overcome their inner struggles and showing them how to turn their pain into their success.
Read what she has to say.
What inspired you to write your first book?
Life! I’ve always knew I would write a book; particularly about my life because I felt I had experienced and been exposed to so much at such a young age. But I thought actually writing it would have happened during my latter years. However, the trials and tribulations that I was experiencing during the time when I begun writing inspired me to share my story sooner because I knew it would help and/or encourage someone else dealing with my same issues.
Do you have a specific writing style?
No, I just write from within.
What books have most impacted your life (or life as an author)?
There’s no particular book or author that have impacted my life. However, I like reading bios and memoirs. I like to read about people’s backgrounds; where they come from and how they became who they are.
What books are you currently reading? Why this author?
My book, Fabricated Looks, because this is what has had me occupied for the past 4 years.
What new authors have piqued your interest?
Again, I read a lot of bios and memoirs, so I’m not up-to-date with the new authors.
If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything about your latest work?
No. I say that because I perfected it to the point I wouldn’t have any regrets about it later. I proof read my book at least 4-6 times before I actually had it printed.
Is there anything you find particularly challenging about writing or coming up with a concept for your book?
I find fiction challenging. I’m not good with “make believe.” I didn’t have a problem coming up with a concept for my book because it is my life…writing facts are so much easier.
What was the hardest part of completing this project?
Formatting the inside contents. I had hired several typesetters, but I am extremely picky and anal about a lot of things. It took me about a year just to get it to my likings.
What advice would you give other writers?
(1) Never doubt yourself. (2) Don’t read other books while you’re writing yours; it only complicates your creativity. (3) Write in a style that works for you, but that your readers will enjoy. (4) Perception is everything. Be very mindful about how you present your work to the world.
Describe the process of getting published.
I self-published my book (for many reasons). But after typing it, the first thing I did was registered my work for a copyright and a library of congress number. Then, I purchased an ISBN and bar code. From there, I worked with a copy editor to proof my grammar and sentence structures, and a graphic designer to create the cover. Once all the components were properly placed, I found a printing service company to print the books. Self-publishing is fairly easy; however it is very very time consuming. Self-publishing is not for lazy folks.
What were the literary, psychological and/or logistical challenges in bringing your work to life?
Bringing my work to life was psychologically challenging because I had to relive a lot of painful moments. I had to dig up many buried wounds and undo bandages on scars that weren’t fully healed.
Everyone’s process for writing is different. Explain yours.
For me, writing is my form of venting. It helps me release emotions and thoughts that I may can’t rely at the time or be ready to speak upon verbally.
What are five of your favorite books and why?
I honestly don’t have any favorite books. But I enjoyed reading Adele’s bio by Marc Shapiro; Good in a Crisis by Margaret Overton, and Lost & Found by Sarah Jakes.
Please provide three “good to know” fact about yourself. Be creative. Tell us about your first job or the inspiration behind your writing.
(1) I like to shower in the dark.
(2) My very first job was working as a cashier at a grocery store.
(3) I cry during 75 percent of the movies I watch or stories I read.
What is the mission you set out to accomplish with your voice in this book?
My mission is to inspire and encourage others. To show them what strength looks like even when you should be breaking down. I want others to know that healing from deep sufferings is possible and that every dream or vision you have can become tangible if you pursue it.
Who are the authors you reread and why?
None.
A great book has what?
Laughter, tears and suspense.
Where would you travel if you could to write you next book?
An exotic island.
What is the gift of reading and why does it open up a new world?
Reading is knowledge.
