Featured Interview With Olapeju Simoyan
Tell us a little about yourself. Where were you raised? Where do you live now?
I was born in Washington, DC and grew up in Nigeria. I live in Pennsylvania, and have lived in various parts of this state since 2002. Prior to moving to Pennsylvania, I lived in New York and Maryland. I grew up in a diplomatic family, so I am used to traveling and I take my camera with me when I do. My future plans include publishing a series of travel photography books. So far, I have one book in that genre – ” Scranton, A Place to Call Home.”
I don’t have pets, but I love nature and wildlife photography and illustrate my books with my own photography. My nature photography is featured in my books “The Amazing World of Butterflies” and ” Giraffes Are Amazing”.
At what age did you realize your fascination with books? When did you start writing?
I have wanted to be a writer at least since the age of ten. The adults in my life told me that writing was something you do in your spare time, so I was never encouraged to become a professional writer.
After years of training and working in healthcare, which included writing for peer-reviewed publications, I decided to pursue my childhood dream of narrative writing. By this time, I had discovered another passion – photography, and I now combine both passions in my work.
Who are your favorite authors to read? What is your favorite genre to read. Who Inspires you in your writings?
My writing spans covers very diverse topics, so I read different genres. Right now, I am reading “Music and Mind”, a book that was edited by Renee Fleming, the world – famous soprano. In the book, professionals from various backgrounds share their insights and in some cases, research related to the impact of music on the brain and the emerging field of music in medicine.
Tell us a little about your latest book?
This collection of essays complements the album “Peju Sings! The Little Drummer Boy and Other Christmas Favorites,” which features thirteen Christmas songs recorded by the author and was first released in 2023. In this book, the author explores the stories behind each song, delving into the lives of the lyricists and composers, the context in which the songs were written, and other intriguing details. Readers will gain a fresh perspective on beloved carols like “O Holy Night” and “Silent Night” as they uncover their rich history. The themes of hope and peace that resonate through these timeless songs are also reflected in newer classics like “Feliz Navidad,” which transcended cultural barriers to become a bilingual favorite.
This book’s educational content will appeal to a broad audience, including those who may not celebrate Christmas. For those who do, it offers surprising insights into the origins of some of their favorite carols. No matter your background, this book invites you to be inspired by its stories and enjoy its message of celebration and reflection year-round.
Connect with the Author on their Websites and Social media profiles