I recently had the pleasure of speaking with CJ Watson. If you’re unfamiliar with CJ as an author, then you should recognize him from his stint playing with Golden State Warriors, Chicago Bulls, Brooklyn Nets, Indiana Pacers, or Orlando Magic. He is a man who has achieved the type of success that most of fantasize about. It was only fitting that our conversation focused on dreams.
Phoenix: The theme of dreams permeates through your brand your books. At what point in your life did you realize that dreams had the capability of becoming a reality?
CJ: I realized that when I started really getting into basketball. Hard work helped me achieved my dreams.
Phoenix: CJ’s Big Dreams speaks directly to the youth. It urges them to work towards their dreams from a young age. What advice would you give to parents about shaping and giving life to their child’s dreams?
CJ: Parents have to nurture the dreams of their children. Support them in whatever they do.
Phoenix: Whether there it’s romance, historical, or young adult, every book has a bit of the author’s truth inside of it. In CJ’s Big Dream, what truth did you incorporate?
CJ: Every word of CJ’s Big Dream is true. It’s my life. I didn’t want to put out a project that wasn’t true to me.
Phoenix: Going from NBA star to children’s author is quite a jump. What made you decide to take the leap?
CJ: Once I was done playing basketball, I wanted to do something to give back to the community and inspire the children. I wanted to share my story.
Phoenix: If there is one thing you’d like readers to walk away with from your book, what would it be?
CJ: Go after your dreams. It’ll take a lot of hard work and determination, but they can come true.
Phoenix: Where can readers find you?
CJ: I’m touring all the time to various schools and communities. Follow along and purchase the book at cjpens.com