Author Mo Shines was born in Brooklyn and raised in the Bronx. His was almost another childhood lost until he made a conscious decision not to continue repeating the losing cycles of many young men in his neighborhood including his father who had been incarcerated and murdered shortly after his release from prison.
Mo Shines’ writing derives from the harsh and grim realities he was exposed to growing up. He's a former NYC Correction Officer who has been on both sides of the law but chose to walk a righteous path. His novels include “Brazen” and “Officer Down.” ‘Me & Grandma,’ a short story, was published in Nikki Turner’s “Street Chronicles: Christmas in the Hood.” He is currently working on his third novel, which will drop this summer.
A graduate of the New York Film Academy, Mo Shines has directed and edited 4 short films: “Wrong Place, Wrong Time” (2001), “Anger Management” (2002), “Amerika” (2003), “Crazy Man Sam” (2009) and over 11 music videos, including D-Block artist Bully. Mo has written/co-written over 9 video treatments for Music Video Director Dr. Teeth.
An enterprising young man with diverse talents, Mo is on his way towards making his mark in the entertainment industry.
GETTING TO KNOW MO SHINES…
Dead or alive, what one author would you like to collaborate with? Donald Goines Why? I read all of his books growing up and he inspired me to want to write books.
Who has had the most impact on your life? My mother...
If you had to share your life story with young males, what would you want them to know? That I've made mistakes just like anyone else. But don't let that stop you from chasing your dreams and trying to better your life.
Do you have any pet peeves? Doubters are my pet peeve. I can't stand people who doubt ideas or dreams.
If you were trying to entice someone to your city, what would you recommend as must see/do/eat? I'd tell them to head to City Island for some great seafood.
What’s your favorite non-alcohol drink? Water.
Do you balance your checkbook? Yes. Only because I have to.
There’s nothing sexier about a woman than… her eyes and lips
Pen or pencil? Pen.
What’s one question that you hate to be asked? Can you shoot my music video for free?
PRAISE FOR BRAZEN
“This tightly written novel written by newcomer Mo Shines was thoroughly enjoyable. His spin on dirty cops in the 'hood is a breath of fresh air in a genre consumed by baby momma drama situations and the like.” - Englishruler
“In this fast paced novel Mo Shines details two dirty NYPD cops and one officer's attempt to bring them down.”- Hotchklate
“Mo Shines has written a gritty expose that reads like a movie. It is one of those books you can see while reading. Those who like action-packed, suspenseful movies with explosions, street life, or even readers of crime thrillers will enjoy this title.” – The RAWSISTAZ Reviewers
PRAISE FOR OFFICER DOWN
“Officer Down speaks for all the minorities gunned down in the streets. Mo Shines' pen game is undeniable!” - Swizz Beatz, multi-platinum producer & Full Surface CEO
“Mo Shines pens another first round draft pick with ‘Officer Down.’ His writing handcuffs you to the steering wheel of this novel and won't let you go until the ride is over.” - Y. Blak Moore, author of Triple Take, The Apostles, and Slipping
“A page turner, it is a captivating read. Mo Shines’ comfortable way with words and gift of telling a story resonates.” – OOSA
Mo Shines will be donating 10% of his proceeds from his novel “Officer Down” over the next 6 months to help the family of Trayvon Martin in their trying times. The money can go towards anything to help the family in obtaining justice not just for Trayvon but for all our teens. Mo knows it might not be much, but he wants to help.
For more information about Mo Shines, please visit:
Twitter: @MoShines
Facebook: Facebook.com/MoShines
