J.R. Rice Shares His Journey, Writing Process, and the Power of Storytelling

From Poetry to Prose: The Evolution of a Storyteller

J.R. Rice discusses his novel Broken Pencils, the impact of mental health on his writing, his experiences abroad, and the power of storytelling in connecting with readers on a profound level.

J.R. Rice is a literary force whose work resonates with raw emotion, unflinching honesty, and a deep sense of purpose. An award-winning author, poet, educator, and spoken word artist, Rice brings a unique voice to contemporary literature, weaving together his personal experiences with the broader struggles of identity, mental health, and self-discovery. His critically acclaimed novel Broken Pencils has garnered 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. As the first instalment in the Broken Pencils series, his poetry collection I Was, Am, Will Be expands on these themes, taking readers on a profound journey of transformation.

A writer shaped by his experiences, Rice’s time abroad in Greece, under the mentorship of George Crane, refined his voice into one that is both precise and powerful. His mastery of minimalism, combined with the rhythmic energy of spoken word, breathes life into his storytelling, creating narratives that are as lyrical as they are deeply affecting. His commitment to both the written and spoken word is evident not only in his books but also in his dedication to fostering artistic communities, from hosting poetry slams to mentoring young creatives.

In this exclusive interview, Rice speaks candidly about his creative process, the personal struggles that fuel his writing, and his mission to inspire others through his work. With Broken Pencils and I Was, Am, Will Be, he continues to break barriers, offering readers stories that are urgent, heartfelt, and undeniably necessary.

J.R. Rice is a masterful storyteller, blending poetry and prose to create deeply personal narratives that inspire, challenge, and transform readers.

What inspired you to write about Jonah Tarver’s journey in I WAS, AM, WILL BE?

After experiencing the traumatic loss of my father, a breakup with my ex-girlfriend, and being laid off from my teaching job, I left America to travel through Europe. I spent time in Greece and Spain, searching for purpose during a turbulent period in my life. I encountered incredible people and had unforgettable adventures that reshaped my perspective, which heavily influenced my poetry book I Was, Am, Will Be.

In the book, the reader follows Jonah Tarver from Broken Pencils, now a 25-year-old Black American on a three-month journey through Spain, Greece, France, and Amsterdam. Jonah embarks on a quest exploring determination, destiny, and death, taking the reader along on his heroic journey, continuing the Broken Pencils series.

How did your experiences abroad, particularly in Greece, shape your writing style and voice?

Living and studying in Paros, Greece, under the mentorship of George Crane, author of Bones of the Master, was a transformative experience. I was the Black Jedi to his Beatnik Yoda. He taught me about minimalism, emphasizing the importance of removing excess and giving purpose to every sentence, line, and word. This approach had a profound influence on my writing style and voice.

What role does spoken word artistry play in your creative process as a writer?

Spoken word artistry is integral to my writing because I incorporate elements like repetition, similes, extended metaphors, and rhythmic language into my novels to create an engaging experience for readers, especially when read aloud. Beyond writing, I use spoken word to build community, hosting and curating events like the local artist showcase series, SOCIAL SATURDAY, and organizing fundraisers in the Bay Area.

How do you balance your teaching career with your writing and artistic pursuits?

Balancing my full-time teaching job with my creative pursuits has been challenging. I work 40 hours a week as an English teacher and spend my free time writing, performing spoken word, hosting events, creating content, and more. While I feel skilled in each role, I often worry about becoming a “Jack of all trades, master of none,” which creates anxiety about where to focus my time. It’s a blessing and a curse to be talented in multiple areas, yet I often struggle with committing fully to one without feeling regret about the others. I remind myself of Henry Thoreau’s quote: “My life has been the poem I would have writ. But I could not both live and utter it.”

What challenges did you face while writing Broken Pencils, and how did you overcome them?

Writing Broken Pencils was deeply personal and challenging. Like Jonah Tarver, I struggle with bipolar disorder and have a history of mental health challenges, including depression, mania, panic attacks, and suicidal ideation. Initially, I aimed to highlight mental health from a young Black teenager’s perspective. But as I worked on the book, I confronted my own traumas and reflected on the causes and effects of my struggles.

In recent years, I’ve prioritized self-care, regularly engaging in activities that promote mental health. Broken Pencils has had a profound impact on my life, helping me develop a deeper understanding and love for my imperfect but beautiful self.

Can you describe the significance of your characters’ personal struggles in your novels?

In Broken Pencils, the protagonist, Jonah Tarver, a troubled Black teenager from Oakland, believes life is pointless, like a broken pencil. On the night of his senior prom and the anniversary of his best friend’s death, Jonah embarks on a journey to find his purpose.

The story was inspired by my own struggles with mental health. I’ve battled depression and manic episodes since my teenage years, carrying the shame of not being understood. Through Jonah’s journey, I wanted to explore the challenges of living with bipolar disorder, inviting readers to experience the emotional highs and lows, and ultimately, the beauty of embracing life’s struggles.

What advice would you give to aspiring writers who want to make an impact with their work?

My advice is to stay authentic and true to your voice. Write from your experiences and emotions to connect with others across cultures and boundaries. Give a voice to the voiceless—the people whose stories show resilience through struggle. It’s also vital to preserve the legacy of our ancestors by carrying their stories into the present, so future generations can do the same. This honors their sacrifices and triumphs while continuing their legacy.