Today we’d like to introduce you to Andrew Snorton
Hi Andrew, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My journey as a published author begins in the spring of 2016.
After speaking with two peers (Darrius Gourdine and Tyressa Ty) about their transition into becoming published authors, I decided (as the magazine I wrote for shut down during this time) to expand my writing. I have a great idea but unfortunately, lost the original manuscript (make sure you back up your work!).
Once I got a few things out of my system (LOL), I shifted my focus to what would have been my second book, a book of poetry. From there, things really come together and by February 2017, my first book is published (Deeper than your deepest sleep: thoughts on love with Joseph Snorton).
Since then, I have 4 published books, an audiobook series, and even a coffee brand/collaboration!
To call it a blessing is an understatement; it’s amazing where a little faith and perseverance can take you, so I’m excited about sharing my journey and excited as to where it can lead me.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Not exactly (and that’s not just with the lost manuscript).
You have to remember when it comes to writing, you are running a marathon and not a sprint. There are times you do have to push the envelope and tempo, but not all the time.
It really does take time and it can be challenging when things do not come together according to your schedule or plan. For instance, I’ve had to reschedule book-signings/author’s talks at Beow’s Books and Brews TWICE due to health reasons (October 26, 2024 and then December 14, 2024); I am sincerely grateful for them being patient and working with me, but getting off-schedule can be hard to deal with.
The day-to-day can be a little challenging too, and not just the writing part. Any independent author will tell you it’s a DAILY operation; just because you share something one time, it does not mean people are going to automatically remember it.
You have to be consistent with sharing your story when it comes to your writing. You have to remain in constant communication with venues, festivals, and the media. And there are times you do get pulled away from your day-to-day let alone those around you being ok with the concept of what you do, but not the reality.
Again, you have to understand there’s a combo of hard and smart work which has to be done on a regular basis and at times, it’s not easy, but if you are looking to expand your reach, you have to be willing to put in the time and be consistent in doing so.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Beyond writing, my work overlaps into educational services along with press and media.
Education-wise, evolving from my time in the classroom (teaching middle school social studies, English, and journalism among other content areas), I tutor/student-coach (in-person and virtual) mainly middle and high school students. This includes core subjects along with ACT/SAT prep (as I’ve worked with different schools, nonprofits, and related organizations to conduct workshops, etc.).
On the press/media end, I’m credentialed to cover college and pro sports (including Wake Forest football since 2019) and am on the media list for a few members of Congress and other entities. I’ve also worked with businesses and events with their engagement with the press/media (i.e. interfacing with radio, television, newspapers, magazines, and emerging media such as podcasts, etc), including my work with the Alphas of Atlanta and their #AlphaDerbyWeekend (Kentucky Derby themed event).
And as a published author, I’m sincerely grateful for my collaboration with Fante’s Coffee in coming up with the #AuthorASnortonBlend (as we have a decaf, light, medium, and bourbon-infused roast). This all evolves from me being an author and my first book signing in Louisville, KY (where they are located) in August 2018 (just recall what I said about you never know where life can take you)!
What I am most proud of? Still being here!
Seriously, just my belief in myself and those who believe in what I’m doing along with their support and encouragement. Yes, I’m proud of my work ethic and product as I regularly look for ways to improve, but the fact I’m still doing IT when others fall off is something I’m proud of as I commit to maintaining my focus and perspective on it all.
As for what sets me apart? As I noted in an author’s talk in January 2024 (at The Bookhouse in Winston-Salem, NC), I’m ME.
What this means is I realize I have gifts I’m using, gifts I’ve yet to use, and gifts I’ve yet to discover. As long as I commit to making the most of each day, I’ll continue to grow and evolve; I’ll continue to go in spaces in places like Raleigh or anywhere else given the balance of my faith, work ethic, work product, and just engaging with people where they are and see where we can individually and collectively grow. I may not be the biggest, but I’m in spaces the biggest will never go.
Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
People can collaborate with me by simply reaching out to me via email (authorasnorton@gmail.com or asnortonccs@gmail.com); be it fellow authors wanting to do a collective signing or author’s talk, an organization who needs to conduct an ACT/SAT workshop, a coffee tasting/benefit event for your nonprofit, let’s start the conversation there!
As a published author, make a visit to Beow’s Books & Brews as they are carrying my books (or at least request them) and when I’m finally “right” healthwise, check out my author’s talk (likely during the 1st quarter of 2025, but make sure to connect with me). If you are a coffee lover, request our coffee at your favorite space and place so you and others can enjoy a #SipWithSnorton (again, COFFEE ladies and gentlemen, LOL).
On the education end, be it virtual or in-person, if you are in need of conducting a workshop, class, or series on navigating through the ACT/SAT, reach out to me! And even on the press/media end, let’s discuss so we can determine the best areas of overlap and make some positive things happen for all.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/authorasnorton
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/authorasnorton
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/authorasnorton
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/authorasnorton
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@authorasnorton7387
- Other: https://asnortonccs.com
