Bernadette Gage
Author Interview - Bernadette Gage
Author of A Beautiful Sunrise
Abi is a brilliant, determined young woman from Apo kingdom whose greatest fight is not against her circumstances, but for her own potential. Despite the expectations of her community and the weight of tradition, she refuses to let her early marriage or family pressures derail her dreams. With fierce resolve, she pushes forward towards higher education and keeps learning even when those around her try to hold her back.
Her world transforms when she moves abroad to continue her studies. Immersed in a new culture, and surrounded by new opportunities, Abi discovers her voice and a powerful purpose: advocating for women who face the same barriers she once did. As she grows academically, personally, and globally, she begins to imagine a future shaped not by obligations, but by possibilities. So, A Beautiful Sunrise ends up becoming a story of a woman choosing herself, her mind, her growth, and the sunrise she is determined to claim.
Author Interview - Bernadette Gage
Author I draw inspiration from:
Charles R Swindoll - Come Before Winter and Share in My Hope & Growing Strong in the Seasons of Life
Author Interview - Bernadette Gage | Author I Draw Inspiration From
Favorite place to read a book:
On my sofa or patio
Book character I’d like to be stuck in an elevator with:
I loved comics growing up. So, I would pick Thompson & Thomson, the twin detectives in Tintin series by Herge.
I imagine they would get into an intense argument over whether to say hello to the young lady riding the elevator with them. Just as they finally come to the consensus that it is okay to say hello, then the elevator door opens, and they both trip and fall over each other!
Author Interview - Bernadette Gage | Book Character I’d Like to be Stuck in an Elevator With
The moment I knew I wanted to become an author:
As a little girl growing up in Nigeria, I was privileged to have so many story books. My big sister chose to buy books as gifts instead of toys, so I built a reading culture early. As I read some of these stories it transported me to magical world of fairytales. As I grew older, I started to make up my own stories that were hand written and never published.
Hardback, paperback, ebook or audiobook:
Hardback
I love hardback formats because they are more durable and I can travel around with them comfortably compared to paperback, because of wear and tear. For work, I do a lot of research which means I read a lot on my computer.So, if I want to read for pleasure, I prefer to read print copies not eBooks. However, eBooks are usually more affordable. Also, I have listened to a couple of audiobooks, but I still associate reading with opening a physical book copy. Thus, I'm somewhat of a slow adopter in this area, but I am catching on.
The last book I read:
Americanah by Chimamanda Adichie
I really enjoyed reading it as it was quite fascinating to follow Ifemelu’s journey through the story as she navigated cultural and racial issues and her relationship choices.
Author Interview - Bernadette Gage | The Last Book I Read
Pen & paper or computer:
It all depends on whether it pertains to work or something I consider serious, in which case I will type my notes on the computer. While for journaling and reflections, or more personal writing, I still prefer my pen and paper. This practice keeps it more personal for me.
Feel free to elaborate here a bit on your writing process.
I will share some details about the writing process for "A Beautiful Sunrise" which happens to be my first novel. The process started out as very laid-back writing of short stories, eventually it grew into a novel that took a while to finish and publish. This is because, years ago, I started writing informal story collections and reflections on some important issues I cared about. I wrote separate pieces as I developed scenes and characters. I had a friend read some of my writing and offer her critique. Then I took a creative writing class and followed up with a course in Media and Medicine at Harvard. Once I completed the program, I did not have any more valid excuse not to finish my novel. So, I moved into the professional editing phase and worked with a couple of reputable editors to review and polish my work.
Book character I think I’d be best friends with:
I could not think of any character from books I have read. I like people with a great sense of humor and I could not immediately recall any with this trait.
If I weren’t an author, I’d be a:
I am not a professional writer by training but rather a health professional who loves writing. Many years ago, I had the opportunity to provide health care services to women and children in Nigeria after medical school and this experience shaped my choice to pursue public health training when I moved to the US. Over the years, I have come to appreciate the value of education not only as a vital factor for career opportunities and professional advancement, but also as a key social determinant of health. So, this influenced my decision to find a creative way to inspire and motivate women and girls, and I chose to communicate my message by using the power of storytelling.
Favorite decade in fashion history:
In the 1990’s and 2000s as a college student, I loved heavily washed-out jeans, denim jackets and tracksuits.
Place I’d most like to travel:
Italy, because of the friendly people, their cuisine, the history and geography of the country.
My signature drink:
Ginger Ale
Favorite artist:
I will share two of my favorite writers. Francine Rivers & Chimamanda Adichie. Many years ago, I read “The Mark of the Lion Series” by Francine Rivers and I was in awe of her unique style of blending faith and creative storytelling. I remember staying up late into the nights while reading that series. More recently, I read some of Chimamanda Adichie’s books including “Half of a Yellow Sun” and “Purple Hibiscus” and I was truly inspired by her storytelling prowess and her authenticity.
Number one on my bucket list:
A trip to Hawaii
Anything else you'd like to add:
Yes, I would love to connect with anyone who wants to learn more about my book or my work on girls education and women's empowerment through my organization – Grit & Spunk Impact Lab
Find more from the author:
Facebook: Bernadette Okwu-Gage - https://www.facebook.com/ikwubiela.okwu/
A Beautiful Sunrise Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/abeautifulsunrise/
Instagram: Bernadette Okwu-Gage (bernie.okwu) - https://www.instagram.com/?hl=en
About Bernadette Gage:
Bernadette Gage
I consider myself a lifelong learner because I am very passionate about education and I value opportunities for continuous learning and growth. However, growing up in Nigeria opened my eyes to issues of gender inequalities that were pervasive, even in education. I chose to use the power of story to draw attention to serious societal issues affecting young women and girls across the globe. My hope is that this story will inspire women and girls to keep chasing their dreams despite obstacle or challenges they may face. In addition, I hope Abi's story would also motivate leaders who read it to strive for policies and programs that are more inclusive and supportive of young girls and women development and empowerment. Professionally, my training is in medicine and public health, but I love projects that incorporate or harness the power of storytelling. In my spare time, I love to watch comedies and travel with my husband.
