Contributor Spotlight: Asanta M. Brooks
Asanta Brooks is an author and freelance writer. Her passion for writing stemmed from creating and illustrating comic strips as a child, which lead to her becoming involved with the high school paper and excelling as a feature writer for her college paper. She resides in Jackson with her adorably energetic four-year-old son, Alex, and today we’re excited to share a little more about her and why she’s a part of Our Jackson Home.
Asanta M. Brooks
Writer
Hometown: Gadsden, Tennessee
Has called Jackson home since: 2017
Occupation: Freelance writer
Involved at: Freelancers Union
Find her on: Instagram
Favorite quote: “Know the world in yourself. Never look for yourself in the world, for this would be to project your illusion.” – Egyptian Proverb
What brought you to Jackson?
To start a new life with my son as a single parent after living here off and on for about ten years.
Why are you a part of Our Jackson Home?
OJH saved me from giving up on my passion! I was going through a difficult time, and writing was definitely a part of my cure. I needed an outlet, something to keep me focused and to surround myself around positive and creative writers as well. It so happened that OJH popped up through a google search. I emailed the editor saying I was interested in becoming a contributor, and the rest is history.
What are some of your favorite stories that you’ve written?
The Never Unraveled piece is one of my favorites. The Wilbourn sisters welcomed me into the shop with open arms. We laughed and congregated; it didn’t feel like an interview at all. Me being an aspiring seamstress, I learned a snippet of what goes on behind the “seams” of things (laughs). This was my first article written, and till this day I can remember the quote they shared with me recited by their mother: “Your name will go further than you will go. Your reputation will never die.”
“As long as Jacksonians resume and take pride in their city, nothing but great things will manifest.”
What do you dream for Jackson in the next ten years?
I hope to see the continuing of positive growth and development within the city as a whole. As long as Jacksonians resume and take pride in their city, nothing but great things will manifest.
What is your favorite spot in Jackson?
The good ole fairgrounds! If I don’t have any errands, I enjoy eating my lunch there and duck watching. To me, it’s calming and relaxing. I call it my Zen Oasis.
What is your favorite restaurant/meal in Jackson?
Picasso Bistro & Pizzeria. Everything I have tried has been delicious.
