[Sept. 2018]
Dr. Alfriciquea Major is the author of “Fact or Fiction”, a fictional book based on her life story. After surviving Criminal Domestic Violence (CDV), she wrote this book in hopes of helping others know that it is hard, but there are life and happiness after the abuse.
Dr. Major has been teaching for twenty-one years, last year was her first year teaching English I. Her students had a pass rate of 100% on their EOC Standardized Test. There is no surprise that she was the Teacher of the Year for 2018-2019. Her educational background consists of graduating from both Claflin University and South Carolina State University receiving her Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education, a Master’s Degree in Secondary English, and a Doctorate Degree in Administration. She is also an Alpha Kappa Alpha, Sorority, Inc.
Today, Dr. Major is a proud wife to Kevin and their three amazing sons, Joseph, JoCobe, and Kaiden. Her philosophy can be summed up in one of my favorite quotes by the renowned author, Dr. Maya Angelou, “If you don’t like something, change it. If you can’t change it, change your attitude.” Don’t complain. She tries her best to make every day a good day regardless of the aches and pains because she knows someone somewhere is less fortunate. Dr. Alfriciquea Major is an author and teacher that loves to read, write, and travel.
YVONNE PIERRE: Tell us about your book “Fact or Fiction”.
DR. ALFRICIQUEA MAJOR: Fact or Fiction is about my life. The title came from looking back over my life; I could not believe some of the things I endured in silence. My story is a Lifetime movie waiting to happen. The book is about a young naïve sheltered girl that just wanted to do what others her age did. With a young single Pentecostal mother raising her, she did not have such luck. China, the main character, did not have much common sense, but she was very book smart. Getting with the manipulative Tim, her nose was wide open and she never imagined he would take her on such a journey.
YVONNE: What inspired you to write it?
DR. MAJOR: Going through the things that I experienced, taught me that it is not as easy as everyone assumes. Living through it is the only way anyone could truly understand. I have always talked about writing my story and with the support of my husband, Kevin; I was inspired to write this book in hopes of helping at least one person “escape”. People do not understand that abusive relationships have your mind, body, and sometimes soul trapped under their command. I wrote this book in hopes of it being someone’s light. Experiencing it and living through it has truly allowed me to be an example of hope and writing it helped me heal and count my blessings.
YVONNE: What exactly does Criminal Domestic Violence mean?
DR. MAJOR: Criminal Domestic Violence (CDV) refers to violent acts committed by a family or household member against another. These include child abuse or the mistreatment of one’s spouse. It can involve physical and or psychological abuse. It is a serious criminal offense. It affects men and women from all backgrounds and anyone can find themselves subject to a criminal arrest and prosecution for a misdemeanor or felony level domestic violence charge. It is something I would not want anyone to ever have to experience.
YVONNE: Why did you decide to make it a fictional book versus a memoir?
DR. MAJOR: In most cases, fiction sells more than a memoir. I decided to make it fictional because I felt it would reach more people. Most people that experience abuse wants to escape it by reading fictional books. Mine is real yet it sounds far-fetched whereas, the name was borne. If my book helps at least one person, I will feel my mission was accomplished.
YVONNE: What was the most challenging part of writing this book and how did you overcome it?
DR. MAJOR: The most challenging, yet rewarding part of writing the book was reliving the events in my mind. I cried, laughed, and got overwhelmed with emotions. Through it all, it helped to cleanse my soul. So many did not make it out; yet, I made it! This alone caused me to rejoice and give thanks to the Lord.
YVONNE: What have you learned about yourself on your writing journey? 
DR. MAJOR: During my journey, I relived the events that made me stronger. There were things that I could not believe I went through and survived. The saying, “What doesn’t kill you, only makes you stronger”, is a true statement! I realized I was stronger than I ever imagined. I believe God’s reason for all this is to be an example to help others.
YVONNE: What words of advice would you give aspiring writers?
DR. MAJOR: My advice to future writers would be to write about what you are passionate about. The words flow easily when it is something you believe in.
Always be true to yourself. Use your talents and experience for good.
YVONNE: Are you planning on releasing more books?
DR. MAJOR: Yes. Look out for book number two within the next year!
For more information about Dr. Alfriciquea Major, visit https://outskirtspress.com/factorfiction
