2022 Local Authors Expo Spotlight: Amber Underwood

Just a few months ago, author Amber Underwood came to the Birmingham Public Library for The Local Pen in conversations with R. Jordan Davis. Now, she is returning as a part of the 2022 Local Authors Expo this Saturday, November 5, 10:00 a.m.—2:00 p.m.

Underwood talked with us again in a short Q&A to give readers more insight on her motivations. 

BPL: Tell me about your book.

Underwood: The name of my book is Hupomone: The Journey of a Young Woman Forsaking Stereotypes to Become Who God Called Her to Be. By definition, hupomone is the characteristic of someone who is not defined by what they go through, and they hold on to their faith in life regardless of what life throws at them. Hupomone defined in this story, is understanding that when I know who I am, I can steadfastly overcome, endure, and fulfill the call on my life. I use my story to empower others to keep on keeping on because ultimately, that is how we all become.

BPL: What inspired you to write your book(s)?

Underwood: Transparently, I never wanted to write a book. I knew I had the gift of writing, but I never planned to write beyond my private journals. I didn't want to be the one to inspire others with my words because much pain lived there. But after running from my calling, and realizing the healing that would take place in others was bigger than me, things began making sense. When my best friend passed away, she left me with a single word—HUPOMON—on her license plate. That word carried me through college and has since become my purpose. If it weren't for my best friend, Porcia, there would be no Hupomone.

BPL: Who is your favorite author and why?

Underwood: Honestly, I don't have a "favorite" author. I have learned that every book I read and every author penning the words can teach me something about myself and introduce me to a different style of writing.

BPL: What do you hope readers get out of your books?

Underwood: I hope that readers are empowered to embrace who they've been created to be so they can fulfill their destiny, their purpose, and live a whole and purpose driven life. We have all been made for more and I hope when readers walk away from reading my book, they can believe in their stories.

BPL: Any advice you would give for new authors or those desiring to become an author?

Underwood: Becoming an author is a journey that introduces you to another level of yourself. It comes with heart surgery, a surgery that makes over everything about you as an individual. If you allow yourself to fully embrace that journey, you'll be unleashed into a writer that will pave the way for others to heal, laugh, cry, or whatever they need, and embrace their gifts and talents. 

You can purchase a copy of Hupomone on Bookshop or purchase a copy at the Local Authors Expo this Saturday, November 5, at the Central Library, 10:00 a.m.—2:00 p.m.

Click here to see the full list of the authors and publishers coming.