It’s A Book Thing Presents: An Interview with Mary Muduuli, author of The Book Of Hope: How Women Rise Up, Take Charge and Win in Retirement

Author’s Bio: Mary dedicated over four decades to development economics, with pivotal roles at institutions like the World Bank and the African Development Bank. Her journey from Uganda to North America has been marked by academic and professional pursuits​ and underscored by a commitment to ​grab opportunities, seek excellence and meaningful contributions​ to society. 

Now, in her golden years, she champions women's economic empowerment to achieve "Hope for a Better Future" for all and younger living for the retired. ​She has authored two books in retirement, including The Book Of Hope (published) and Silver Linings (an audio), focusing on self-help, growth and success in a challenging world. She received the 2023 Lynn Quille Award for Economic Empowerment, by the Focus On Women Magazine (USA). Mary helps women to find their purpose and navigate life with confidence, without feeling helpless and overwhelmed by the crazy world and events in their lives. 

Deliah Lawrence: What inspired you to write​ your book?

Mary Muduuli: The observations throughout my career about the crazy world we live in today, full of fatalism (threats to life and property - some man-made like war, conflict, genocide, climate emergency and others natural like fires, droughts, hurricanes, floods, epidemics, etc.), sense of hopelessness to change life realities;   

The injustices, torture, assault and inequalities particularly against women, rooted in a male dominated world, cultural norms, traditions and practices;

Achievements by women around the world, warriors working as agents of change, for themselves and to impact others;

My strong belief that women, based on women’s gifts and roles and society’s expectations, have capability and a special calling to give “Hope for Better” to humanity; and

My own story, which proved to me that it is possible to reduce stress, depression and hopelessness when we follow certain strategies and use certain tools.    

​DL: What elements do you think make a compelling story?

MM: I believe the following elements make a compelling story:

• Story resonating with society's issues or realities.
• Real people life examples as part of your research.
• Offering practical strategies, tools and or solutions.
• Depicting writer's own vulnerability, experience and achievements.
• Short for comfortable reading and contains a generous touch of humor. 

DL: What obstacles did you encounter while writing the book?

MM: I encountered the following obstacles while writing my book:

• Getting started and dealing with procrastination.
• Multitasking and juggling family schedules, home chores and book writing.
• Content research work and finding real people to interview for real life stories and convincing them to be named.
• Prioritizing materials to include and aiming to perfect drafts.
• Finding financing. 
• Complying with publisher's red tape and guidelines.
• Working with virtual editors.

DL: If you could choose a superpower, what would it be and why?

MM: Flight as a superpower because there are times when I want to travel the world but cannot due to time and financial constraints, but always wish I could just get there. I am well-travelled, been to over 40 countries, but there are parts of this world, especially in Latin America, Eastern Europe and Asia I really wish to see in my life. 

DL: If you were hosting a dinner party, which three authors, present or past, would be your dream guests and why?

MM:  1) Helen Keller – I am so fascinated by her ability to write despite her disability. 2) Michelle Obama - She is such a powerful writer and so inspiring. 3) Wangari Maathai - Her African woman spirit and strong political activism, fighting for the environment is entertaining. 

DL: What tips would you give to aspiring writers?

MM: I would give them the following tips:

• Throw out ideas but settle for relevant audience(s), their pain/need and what you offer them.
• Determine title to keep you focused.
• Get started and keep going, do not procrastinate.
• Don't aim at perfecting drafts and create your own content.
• Make your book easy to read and illustrated.
• Determine how to use the book for impacting society, as many will not read it.
• Decide on marketing strategy early. 

DL: What is your favorite line from a book?

MM: My favorite line by Dr. Maya Angelou: "No matter how miserable a hand we have been dealt, we have the power to create our own destinies and to determine our future." 

DL: What are three fun facts about yourself?

MM: 1) I love listening to different types of music and dancing, sometimes by myself. 2) I enjoy comedy and laughter very much. 3) I love cooking, often spicy, sometimes making up recipes on the fly, just as I make the dish. 

DL: What new projects are you currently working on?

MM: As an Executive Contributor, I write articles in the UK based Rich Woman Magazine, Monday editions, in an effort to impact retirement styles of its readers, championing the concept of "living younger." 

DL: Where can readers learn more about you?

MM: Readers can get more information here:

• My page: https://www.thebookofhope.ca
• Amazon (Kindle): https://www.amazon.com/dp/B098ZZSJZK?ref_=pe_3052080_276849420
• Facebook: https://www.Facebook.com/Mary.Muduuli.7
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marymuduuli/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-c-muduuli-3285731a2

DL: Thanks so much for being here with us today. I know my readers will enjoy getting to know you and your work.

MM: Thank you!