Dreaming Big: 8 Questions with Teen Author Tristan “Trizzy” Martinez

By Tristin “True” Phillips | Kid Correspondent – Black By God

Hi, it’s me, Tristin — but everyone calls me True! I’m 8 years old and I got to do something really exciting: interview a teen author from Charleston, West Virginia. His name is Tristan “Trizzy” Martinez, and he’s only 15 years old.

We both almost share the same first name — mine is Tristin, his is Tristan — and that made meeting him even cooler. First, I sent him 8 questions for Black By God. Then, I got to meet him in person, shake his hand, and even get a signed copy of his book.

8 Questions with Trizzy

True: Why did you want to write a book?
Trizzy: I thought I’d give it a try because it’s kind of like writing a song.

True: Do you write every day?
Trizzy: Not every day, but sometimes after school.

True: What’s your book about?
Trizzy: It’s about me having a concert in my dreams. I think it’s good for the youth.

True: Do you like music or writing more?
Trizzy: Music! Especially freestyling.

True: Who are your favorite artists?
Trizzy: My favorite rappers are Eminem and Meek Mill. My favorite singers are Michael Jackson and Chris Brown.

True: Who’s your favorite writer?
Trizzy: Dr. Seuss.

True: What was the best part of making the book?
Trizzy: Creating the graphics with my mom.

True: What advice would you give to other kids?
Trizzy: Stay true to you and remember you can do anything.

📚 True’s Book Review

I sat down and read Trizzy’s Midnight Mic Drop from start to finish. The story kept my attention the whole way. It’s about a kid who turns his bedroom into a stage for a midnight concert, and it was super fun to imagine.

I really liked the artwork too — it was colorful and matched the story perfectly. The whole book felt creative, playful, and inspiring. It made me feel like I could dream big too.

🛒 About the Book & How to Get It

Title: Trizzy’s Midnight Mic Drop
Author: Tristan Nazir Martinez
What It’s About: A playful, musical bedtime story where Trizzy takes the stage in his dreams for an epic midnight performance. Perfect for kids who love music, rhymes, and imagination.
Format: Paperback children’s book
Where to Buy: Available now on Amazon.

Why It Matters

At just 15, Tristan “Trizzy” Martinez is showing what’s possible when young people follow their creativity. His story is proof that kids and teens don’t have to wait to chase their dreams. For readers of Black By God, it’s also a reminder that Black Appalachian youth are full of imagination, talent, and brilliance worth celebrating.

True’s Final Thoughts

I think Trizzy is awesome because he’s proving that teens can be authors, musicians, and anything they want to be. Meeting him and reading his book made me feel inspired.

And the coolest part? We almost have the same first name — Tristin and Tristan!If you’re young and reading this, maybe you can try writing too. Or music. Or art. Or whatever you dream about. Just like Trizzy says: stay true to you.