Today we talk about Rich and Elite, a book by James Ekunode published with our publishing house Europe Books.
Europe Books had the pleasure of interviewing the author James Ekunode to get to know him better, where he found the inspiration to write his book Rich and Elite, as well as how he chose the title of his book.
Below you can find our interview. Take a seat and enjoy your reading!!!
- Where and when did you find the inspiration to write your book?
My creative process with this book began unexpectedly, amidst the solitude of the pandemic, with a Turkish drama my mother was engrossed in. I can’t recall the specific title, which is frustrating, but the narrative itself was utterly captivating. It possessed a certain energy, a vibrant pulse that resonated deeply within me. I found myself drawn into the intricate web of relationships, the dramatic twists and turns, and the cultural nuances woven throughout the story. It sparked a desire within me to create something of my own, something that captured that same electrifying essence. However, I didn’t simply want to replicate what I had seen. Instead, I felt compelled to explore the themes presented in the drama, to delve deeper into their complexities and, ultimately, to subvert them. I envisioned a story that would challenge the conventional tropes, offering a fresh perspective while still retaining the emotional core that had initially captivated me. This Turkish drama, though nameless in my memory, served as the catalyst for my own creative endeavour, a springboard for a story waiting to be told.
- What is the message you want to convey to your readers?
While there are numerous underlying themes woven throughout the narrative, three core messages stand out: perseverance, love, and the enduring strength of family. These elements, when allowed to flourish, have the power to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles. They form the bedrock of human experience, resonating deeply across cultures and socioeconomic backgrounds. These aren’t just abstract concepts; they are the driving forces that shape our lives. Perseverance, the unwavering commitment to a goal despite setbacks, fuels our resilience. Love, in its myriad forms, provides the emotional support and connection we crave. And family, however defined, offers a sense of belonging and unwavering support. Regardless of your personal history or where you find yourself in the world, these truths remain constant. They are universal principles that transcend cultural differences and societal norms. Whether facing personal challenges, navigating complex relationships, or striving for a better future, perseverance, love, and family serve as guiding lights, offering hope and strength in every setting. They are the fundamental building blocks of a fulfilling and meaningful life.
- What significant stories find expression in your book?
That’s a good question. I wanted this book to be as original as possible so it ended up having so many significant stories, themes and narratives within the book. For example, the difference in how rich and poor people live their lives is very apparent and the main character, Saxon, serves as the bridge between the two worlds while also serving as a blockade or wall between them which adds to his mysterious and intriguing character. There’s also overarching theme of Valoria’s landscape which hints at a euro-centric feel, something I think will stand out to those who are European in particular. I’ve been told this story would appeal to young Romanians so there’s also that. The struggle for upward social mobility and identity are universal but it’s also cool that there are themes that are specific to one group or the other that they can call their own.
- How did you choose the title of your book?
The answer is not as complicated or deep. In the story, there’s a clear distinction between rich and poor. The main character, Saxon, begins the story of embarking on a new life by working for wealthy people which meant he’d be among the rich and elite. The unexpected rise to headship over the house he works for pushes him deeper into this somewhat unfamiliar realm. Throughout the story, he’s among the rich and elite, interacting with them, fighting them, outwitting them, helping them, forming relationships with them, plotting with and against them. Very few times in this story is he not around the people who fit this category. He also needs to assimilate into this world as soon as possible and adapt since the family he is in charge of depends on it. In a very real sense, every single thing that happens in this book is associated with the rich and elite whether good or bad. I wanted this title to make that very apparent and very clear so I hope readers will feel the same when reading the book and thinking about the various themes in it.
- Are you working on a new writing project, you can tell us about?
I’ve written over thirty books and many of them await publication. I recently finished writing a stand-alone book that will serve as the precursor for an upcoming series I plan on writing. So I’m constantly working on new stories to tell. I’m a bit of a madman in that sense that I’ll come up with an idea and have a completed story two months later. Being creative is right up my alley and it’s always a joy to create many stories. I remember telling a friend of mine that I’d eventually stop writing once I hit between 60-70 books. She told me that I most certainly wouldn’t stop and I laughed because she might be right! I love writing and do it even in my free time. I’ve done it so much that some think I don’t have any other interests or passions which is far from the truth. I guess I just love this more than even I realize. In any event, I hope people are willing to tag along for the ride, because I have so many works that I just know will appeal to everyone who’s willing to take a look at my book.
Europe Books thanks the author James Ekunode once again for taking the time and answering our questions. We are really pleased to have walked alongside him on the editorial path that led to the publication of his book Rich and Elite. We wish him the best of luck for his book and for his future works.
To you, my dear reader, may the many themes here told be a source of reflection and inspiration for you: perseverance, love, the strength of family, resilience, commitment to achieving the goal despite the challenges and difficulties encountered along the way are all elements which allow us every day to remember how significant it is to live our life in the best way.
So, my dear reader, all I have to say is to enjoy your reading!
Your Editor!