Brooklyn born author Justinah McFadden is taking her poetry writing career by storm. Not only has she released four books and more poems than you can count--she is now diving into the world of novelist. The four time author is releasing her first novel in 2010 titled, "The Thirteenth Day." The book is set in the era of WWII and surrounds a conspiracy. When asked for a few words on the plot of the book, Justinah teases us with, "When the truth of the conspiracy comes to the light, it surpasses hate by measures and brings hope to the world." This is sure to be a compelling story, to say the least. A novel that will definitely be a challenge for the reader to set down.

We here at Spoken Word New York were privileged to have the opportunity to sit down with the busy author. We wanted her fans to know more about the poet and spoken word artist. Read on to learn more of how she got started writing poetry, learn a bit of her background and find out what her future plans are for writing.

What inspired you to become a writer?
The thing that inspired me to become a writer was when I realized that I was put here on earth for just that purpose. The journey and road which led me to become a writer was a long one and sometimes difficult, but no matter what occurred in my life, I never gave up hope. It was during those times that I would go deep within myself and write from the depths of my being. I never had to take courses or force my work to sound like something fancy. Its been a God given gift, so it came natural--like breathing air and drinking water...I needed it as part of my survival.

How did you get started?
I got started when God, life, and the universe decided that it was the right time. I have this theory--you'll know if something is right because it falls into place with ease. No force involved. I wrote my first book and submitted it to several publishing companies. This was a huge step of faith. I just had to trust God and believe in my writing and here I am. I've been writing poetry since I was 8. I published my first poem at 17. And I published my first book at 23.

Your accomplishments?
I'm a very humble person so I tend to say I'm blessed and the things I accomplish are a blessing through God. I believe publishing 4 books with 3 new ones on the way is a blessing. Being able to dream and express vision is a blessing. And when you see your dreams and blessings unfold and take you to new heights, it's an accomplishment. I feel like I'm on my way and I have so much left to do and I'm ready for it all.

What are your favorites; poems, stories, books? Why?
My favorite poet is Langston Hughes. I love Langston Hughes as a writer and poet. I've always admired his courage. He was a great African-American voice during a time when we needed it most and when we didn't have a voice in America. I love the honesty and rawness of his work. One of my favorite authors/books is Wally Lamb, I Know This Much Is True. In this particular story there is hope and a mystery within each page. It keeps you engulfed from beginning to end. I love the book, The Shack, by William P. Young. I love spiritual, historical and motivational books. I am also a huge fan of Toni Morrison.

You speak of family in your books. How do they influence you? Friends-do they play a factor in your writing?
Family and real friends are an important part of my life. They're the gel that puts it all together. Those are the people promoting, pushing and helping me ultimately. In fact, my best friend is constantly giving me new ideas about how to make myself more marketable. It's great to have their support, it means a lot.

What are your future plans in writing?
I'm coming out with my first Novel in 2010.... It's going to be an awesome project. I will also be publishing smaller works in between. I'm so excited!

Who is your target audience?
I honestly don't have a target audience. I feel that everyone can relate to my writing, from children to the elderly. I write about life. Faith, hope, believing, self love, forgiveness. Mostly, I want readers who have read my work, to finish it feeling uplifted. A thought process should start and leave them examining their own world. I write for human kind.

Who do you NOT want to target in your books...who do you NOT write for?
There isn't anyone I don't write for. I feel if there is a person full of hate, jealousy, resentments, stuck in the past; my books will help them examine their world. Almost like an eye opener.

Who do your books relate more to--men or women?
Again I feel like either gender can and will relate. However, with that said, I am a woman, which makes my poems written from a woman's point of view. For instance, in my first book, Tainted Thoughts on a Purple River, the very first poem is, "The Woman Within." Suggesting that a female can relate to that particular piece. On the same note when I talk about love, God and self, I'm speaking to both genders. I also have a large male based audience and both genders purchase my books. I receive lots of love and empathy from both sides. It's awesome!

What improvements would you make...changes, if any?
I honestly wouldn't change anything from my past because it shaped me into the woman I am today. The only thing I would have done differently is start my publishing sooner. But everything is at Gods speed. His will--not my own.

Was there work that you wanted to put into certain books that you left out and for what reasons?
Never...I write exactly what comes to mind...I rarely edit anything. The truth, when you're in it for real, nothing is ever too personal.

How often do you write?

I write everyday! Every chance I can. I'm constantly evolving and thinking and ready to pour my thoughts out on paper.

In her poetry and prose book titled, "Bardvillian Symphonies," Onika Pascal reveals how the life of one individual can come as a revelation to the unitiated reader and bring joy to the poetry enthusiast. The practical style of the poems is very pleasing to the eyes and allows each reader to actually feel what each line is expressing to them. Within each poem you will find the design and structure very easy to read. Her innovative style of writing also makes the poems very interesting and inspiring.

Beginning with the first poem in this excellent book, "Listening To God, 1985," with such words as, "I'd listen to Him the way I listened to him back in 1985. Like a child," set the stage for a refreshing and an encouraging read. Here she presents to us how important the power of prayer is and that calling upon God can be done by just listening to the humming of voices that surround you.

Another great poem is, "Half Past Noon." This is also an enchanting and touching poem to read. Pascal says, "When buckets of rain poured from God's well at half past noon on any given day...Our waterfall laid dab smack in the middle of Heavens Triangle." Imagine the rain coming down upon you like a waterfall from Heaven. Speaking to the mind, body, and soul; can you imagine the purifying feeling that accompanies that?

In her poem "Proud Girl", she speaks to women of all race, creeds and colors. Her message is to empower women and to show each and every one of us the true meaning of womanhood. In her poem, "Tongues of Women 1825," she dives much deeper into the aspect of courage of women in a particular time in history. She speaks soundly of the power of women in the lines, "Please forgive the gibberish that rolls off my tongue, for I know not the law of silence, but have the strength to pull rain out the sky to wipe my eyes."

In her titled poem, "Bardvillian Symphonies," she shows her humbleness and expresses to the world her desires for giving and receiving love. Throughout the lines of this spectacular poem, you will find yourself thinking of how important it is to have love in your life and having that special someone to grow old with. The stanza that reads, "With you I can count all the stars in the sky, use the clouds to create a path to bring God down from Heaven, to bless our love to live until he call us home." Who wouldn't want to have a love so strong with another that it is blessed and protected by God? This is a very touching poem. A poem all poetry lovers will surely appreciate and enjoy.

Onika Pascal is a writer that any avid poetry lover or would-be poetry lover will enjoy reading the works of. With stories that connect to your conscience and allow you to feel exactly what she was feeling in the moment of the stories. If you are not already a fan of Pascal's work you are sure to be once you've put this book down. This is a must-have for your literary and poetic collection.

Whether you are an avid fan of poetry or just a beginner, you will love learning more about Spoken Word New York and all that goes on there. On this site you will find all of the exciting new Spoken Word Poetry events taking place in New York City and find the latest information on the hottest new-comers, as well as the veterans.

Poetry Author Onika Pascal is one of the many Spoken Word Poetry artists in the New York metropolitan area that you can find spotlighted on this site. She is the new face of New York poetry. If you live in the Brooklyn area, you can find Pascal in many hot spots reciting from one of her poetry books or reciting Spoken Word to her many fans. Check out Spoken Word New York for the latest new on all the upcoming events in your New York City area.

Spoken Word New York will be your one-stop spot for information on the best spoken word/poetry writing artists in the New York metropolitan area. This site will aid you in finding out who's hot and who's not, when it comes to Spoken Word /Poetry artists in New York. It will highlight some of the freshest artists as well as the well-known. You will get a first-hand glimpse into the creative minds of some of your favorite poets; learn what motivates them; and see how they make their poetic magic.

Spoken Word New York will be the first place you visit when you want to know the latest on New York City events. Our events calender lists upcoming open mic nights, book signings, author readings and release parties. Visit this site often to check out the HOTTEST Spoken Word New York poets and get all of the latest information on where your favorite poet will be performing and appearing next. Join in on the fun!

If you are a poet and have aspirations of following in your poetic idols footsteps, get out there and get known. You could become the next poet to be highlighted. Spoken Word New York is THE hot-spot for your passion for the spoken word and poetry. Enjoy!

Soule International Restaurant proudly presents Onika Pascal in celebration of her sequel book, "Collections of a See Through Soul - Bardvillian Symphonies". Soule will be hosting an evening of Spoken Word and Poetry readings from the pages of this delightful and profound book of poetry and prose. Bardvillian Symphonies offers the reader true insight into the mind of Onika Pascal and allows us to join her in her journey through enlightenment and spiritual involvement. If you are a true fan of poetry, this is a book that any poetry lover or would-be poetry lover may learn from and love.

Along with the book signing and readings, Soule International will also be offering an Open Mic for the evening. Throughout the night, Spoken Word artists and Poets will be encouraged to recite their own works and share their joys and passions for poetry. Family and friends are all welcomed to join in and celebrate this joyous occasion.

Ms. Pascal is graciously allowing fans of her works to read from her books and will be offering a Q&A session during the event. Guests of the event will be allowed to ask questions concerning the author’s books, her inspirations and whatever else the fans are interesting in knowing of the author. You are sure to have the most delightful poetic evening of your life. If you are a fan of the Spoken Word and Poetry, you will not want to miss this event. Autographed books will be sold at a price of $10.00 each.

Soule International Restaurant is located in the heart of Brooklyn at 920 Fulton St. in the Clinton Hills area. Come in and enjoy a free night of the hottest poetry in New York by a brilliant writer and author, Onika Pascal. Stay for the best Caribbean/Soul food in Brooklyn, leave with your heart lighter and your spirits lifted higher. See you there!