J.R. Rice Shares His Inspiring Journey, Writing Process, and Powerful Storytelling

Journey Through Struggle, Inspiration, And Storytelling With J.R. Rice

J.R. Rice discusses his personal struggles, travels, writing process, and commitment to mental health and spoken word artistry in this inspiring interview.

J.R. Rice’s writing is a force of nature, blending raw emotion with compelling storytelling. His journey, from personal hardship to literary success, is an inspiration for writers and readers alike. As Rice continues to tackle the complexities of mental health, identity, and self-discovery, his work stands as a testament to the healing power of words. His unique voice is one to watch in the literary world, as he brings profound depth to both his prose and poetry.

J.R. Rice’s work is raw, profound, and deeply inspiring, blending poetry and prose to touch readers on a transformative level.

J.R. Rice is an award-winning author, poet, educator, and spoken word artist whose literary works delve into the intricacies of identity, mental health, and self-discovery. His critically acclaimed novel Broken Pencils and his poetry collection I Was, Am, Will Be have touched readers deeply, offering a unique perspective on mental health and personal transformation. Rice’s works have earned him prestigious accolades, including the 2024 Literary Titan Gold Book Award and the 2024 Pencraft Summer Best Book Award for Young Adult Coming-of-Age Fiction.

In an exclusive interview, Rice reflects on his journey as a writer, the profound impact of his travels abroad, and the deep role of spoken word artistry in his storytelling. With Broken Pencils as the first in the series, Rice continues to captivate audiences with narratives that are as powerful as they are poignant.

A Journey of Transformation
Rice’s journey as a writer began amidst personal struggles, including the loss of his father, a breakup, and being laid off from his teaching job. This difficult period led him to leave the United States and embark on a life-changing adventure through Europe. His travels, particularly in Greece and Spain, played a significant role in shaping the themes of his works, most notably in I Was, Am, Will Be, which follows the protagonist Jonah Tarver’s search for purpose and understanding while traversing Spain, Greece, France, and Amsterdam.

“I encountered incredible people and unforgettable experiences that reshaped my perspective on life,” Rice shares. “These travels and the lessons I learned along the way heavily influenced the writing of I Was, Am, Will Be.”

Mentorship in Greece and the Art of Minimalism
Rice’s time in Paros, Greece, studying under the mentorship of George Crane, author of Bones of the Master, was pivotal in refining his writing style. Crane’s teachings on minimalism—eliminating excess and focusing on precision—had a lasting impact on Rice’s approach to storytelling. This influence is evident in the raw, concise power of his writing, combining the elements of spoken word with traditional prose to create deeply emotional and engaging narratives.

Spoken Word and Community
As a spoken word artist, Rice integrates rhythm, repetition, and extended metaphors into his novels, elevating the reader’s experience. His commitment to spoken word extends beyond writing, as he actively fosters artistic communities by hosting events like SOCIAL SATURDAY and organizing fundraisers in the Bay Area.

The Struggles Behind Broken Pencils and Mental Health
Writing Broken Pencils was both a cathartic and difficult process for Rice, as it mirrored his own struggles with mental health, including bipolar disorder. The novel’s protagonist, Jonah Tarver, grapples with depression, self-worth, and suicidal ideation, reflecting Rice’s personal battles with these issues. Through Jonah’s journey, Rice sought to give a voice to young Black individuals who are often misunderstood, while also shedding light on the impact of mental health on personal identity.

“Writing Broken Pencils allowed me to explore my own traumas and better understand the role mental health has played in shaping my life,” Rice explains. “It helped me embrace my imperfections and develop a deeper love for myself.”

Advice for Aspiring Writers
For aspiring writers, Rice offers simple yet powerful advice: “Stay authentic and true to your voice. Write from your experiences and emotions to connect with others across cultures and boundaries. Share the stories of the voiceless—those who have shown resilience through struggle.”

As Rice continues to break barriers in both poetry and prose, his work remains an inspiring testament to the transformative power of storytelling.

Originally published in Reader’s House Magazine.