Can you tell us a bit about your background and how you got started in your field?

Absolutely! My name is L. N. Bokete, and I'm an author and screenplay writer with a diverse portfolio that includes the Totem Spirit Walker Series, Tokoloshe, and Pisces Family, along with several web series on my YouTube channel such as Flash Marriage to a Snake, Burning Embers, and Black Sparrow. I've always had a passion for storytelling, and even though I was born in the USA I had the privilege of living in multiple Southern African countries. I was surrounded by rich cultural narratives that sparked my imagination. This early exposure to folklore and African mythology  though my father inspired me to pursue a career in writing, aiming to share these unique stories with the world. My journey in screenplay was a desire to see more diverse stories being shared on screen.

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What inspired you to pursue a career in writing?

My inspiration came from a deep love of storytelling and a desire to provide an African twist to some of the western Fantasy stories I enjoyed. This then resulted in me looking at how can we bring some of African folklore to life, which can be seen in Totem, Spirit Walker and Tokoloshe.. From a young age, I was captivated by the stories my dad told me, full of mythical creatures and heroic figures. This fascination with folklore, combined with my love for reading, naturally evolved into a passion for writing. I wanted to create stories that not only entertained but also educated and inspired others, especially the younger generation.

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Who are some of your biggest influences and inspirations in your career?

I've been influenced by a blend of traditional storytellers from my childhood and contemporary authors who push the boundaries of genre and narrative. Writers like Chinua Achebe and Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o have profoundly impacted my understanding of African literature. Additionally, the works of fantasy authors like Nnedi Okorafor and Neil Gaiman inspire me to weave the fantastical with the real, creating worlds that resonate on multiple levels.