The Press and Journal (Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire)
MY LIFE FARIDAH ÀBÍKÉÍYÍMÍDÉ
Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé is an author who studied at the University of Aberdeen. Her novel, Ace of Spades, is an incendiary thriller that delves deep into institutionalised racism. Faridah will be taking part in the Granite Noir Bold New Voices showcase at The Lemon Tree today at 12pm. Visit www.aberdeenperformingarts.com for more information on Granite Noir events this weekend.
First record bought?
The Warblers’ Glee album.
Book that changed your life? The Death of Vivek Oji by Akwaeke Emezi.
Most expensive purchase? My teeth – if I don’t count my degree or my mortgage.
First job?
Sainsbury’s bakery.
Favourite time of day?
The evening when the sun is just setting.
Last time you cried?
This morning – it was the result of laughing a lot at something my sister said.
Worst fashion faux pas?
My mum would say my yellow buffalo platform shoes. I would say all the times I have worn suspenders.
Favourite holiday destination? Amsterdam.
Idea of holiday hell?
Any place where it’s always warm.
Biggest phobia? Outer space.
What are you watching on TV?
Private Practice.
Favourite movie?
The Devil Wears Prada.
How do you relax?
I listen to music super loud and crochet/knit.
Best advice you’ve been given?
Failure isn’t the opposite of success, it’s part of it.
Who you last spoke to on the phone?
My sister.
First thing you did this morning?
Made tea.
Worst mistake?
The amount of fizzy drinks I consumed at university. It made my teeth rotten hence the reason my teeth are my most expensive purchase.
Your inspiration?
Malcolm X.
Would most like to meet?
Alive – Akwaeke Emezi; Dead – Oscar Wilde.
Childhood crush?
I don’t typically get crushes on people.
Weirdest fan gift (or present you’ve received)?
I haven’t received any weird presents, just really lovely fan art.
Quirky habits?
I own more than 50 mugs.
Worst meal?
Anything with legumes because I’m allergic and the near-death experience typically ruins the meal.
What makes you laugh?
Videos of people falling.
Most embarrassing moment?
When I fell in public and didn’t get back up.
Sean Connery or Daniel Craig?
I have never watched James Bond but I liked Daniel Craig in Knives Out.
Beauty is?
A social construct.