Indie Shine Memorial Weekend Edition- DD Wright

Welcome to another edition of Indie Shine, a place for Rebirthoflisa to shine the spotlight on indie artists. Today we welcome poet and author, DD. Wright.

©DD Wright used with permission

 

Bio: 

D.D. Wright was born in Harlem NY but raised in the Bronx. She graduated from Sacred Heart as well Cardinal Spellman HS. She later received her Bachelors Degree in Psychology as well as her Masters Degree in Early Childhood Education, from Lehman College. She has been teaching since 2002 but writing since childhood.

Currently, D.D. is a successful author. She self-published her first book of poetry, Poetry 2Life in October of 2012. Followed by her second ebook of poetry, Embracing: A Poetic Perspective in April of 2013. In June of 2014, D.D. started an online talk show entitled, “Poetic Soul”.

Q &A:

What do you do and Why do you do it? 

I write books of poetry, short stories and literary letters. I enjoy universal ideas almost as much as I enjoy sharing them. Writing is therapeutic. I hope to encourage and inspire those who need it the most. Connecting/networking with other indie authors inspires me to keep the pen close.

Tell us about your most recent work. 

“For the Sake of Romance: A Chapbook For Those Who Love” is my 6th publication. It focuses on romance and loving. It is a short collection of short and slightly longer than short poems meant to revive the concept of romance. In the world we live in, its difficult for some of us to keep in mind that romance does still exist. This chapbook serves as a reminder – for all ages, that it does.

Who inspires you? 

My daughter inspires me. She is so hilarious and energetic. There are quite a few icons as well as indie authors that also inspire me. Those who are determined to overcome and grow through challenges inspire me the most.

What do you consider your “Masterpiece” at this time?

At this time, my masterpiece is the novel I am working on. I am combining the two short stories I wrote, “Coincidental Fate” and “Samson’s Story” with an additional pages to complete my first novel. It will serve as tangible proof that anything is possible. Plus the story line is one most have and will be able to relate to.

What is your motto in life? 

My motto in life is, the only person that can get in your way is you. Not only have I overcome this but have seen others be held back by themselves. Once determined, nothing nor anyone can block a soul from obtaining/accomplishing what they want.

Name your wildest dream. The one you can not imagine achieving, but would love for it to come true. 

My wildest dream would be receiving the Pulitzer Prize or Newberry Metal for a book I wrote. It isn’t the award as much as knowing that my words graced that many readers. I would love that.

What is your favorite quote?

My favorite quote is one by Tupac Shakur, “Reality is wrong, dreams are for real”. Anything is possible if you believe, yes, even dreams!

When it is all said and done, what would you like to be remembered for? 

I would like to be remembered as a caring mother, educator and writer who gave the best of herself to those she cared for. One who also stood up for the underdogs and advocated for those whose voice wasn’t courageous enough.

Tell us about your next project and when will it be available to the public? 

I am currently organizing an anthology, “While Waiting”. It will be a free ebook advising single men and women about the waiting period between where they are now as they head towards a relationship. Several indie authors will be writing poems, letters and short stories offering their wisdom on this way of life.

Where can fans purchase your work?

My books are available in both soft cover and e-books at AuthorHouse.com, Amazon.com, CreateSpace.com and Smashwords.com For autographed copies, please email me authorddwright@gmail.com. PayPal payments will be accepted.

©DD Wright used with permission

Social Media:

Instagram: @authorddwright

Facebook: @Poetry2Life

New Short Story in SOUL Magazine Issue 5

Hi Lovies,

Just a quick chat to let you guys know what I have going on. I wrote a short story called Nneka’s First about a little African American girl who deals with discrimination on her first day of kindergarten. Her parents, with the permission of her teacher, teach her classmates a lesson in tolerance.

You can read my story along with other stories and poems from some very talented writers in Issue 5 of SOUL Magazine, edited and curated by Candis Johnson, available on lulu.com. Click here to purchase it.

Happy Birthday in Heaven Mama Maya

Today I would like to send a special birthday greeting all the way up to heaven to one of my heroes, Dr. Maya Angelou. Her words and wisdom have helped me live my best life. I am still a work in progress, but at least I know some things about life. I will continue to strive to be the best person I can be because I know better than my past and I have resolved to do better.

 

How ironic is it that National Poetry Month houses Dr. Angelou’s birthday? It was cosmic alignment. I would like to share one of my favorite poems by her with you today. It is called The Mask and she used it in conjunction with Paul Laurence Dunbar’s poem We Wear the Mask. This poem has inspired a story from me as well. It is at the beginning stages of outline and character analysis, but I plan to push forward with it very soon.

 

Happy Birthday in Heaven Mama Maya…

Indie Shine – Candis Johnson

In this edition of Indie Shine, a place for rebirthoflisa to ‘Shine’ the spotlight on indie artists, we welcome writer/publisher Candis Johnson!

 

©Candis Johnson used with permission

 

Bio: 

My name is Candis Johnson. I am thirty years old from Camden NJ. I attended public school and graduated from a performing arts high school in 2006. I attended Delaware State University and graduated in 2010 with a BA degree in Mass Communications and a minor in Political Science. I published my first poetry book in 2008 via Lulu.com called “Splurging on Poetry” and a second in 2009 entitled “Somebody had to say it” Currently, I am in graduate school obtaining a MA in Business Administration. I have also created my own literary magazine called “SOUL” (Say On Universal Languages). So far I have released four issues and many more to come. My future goal is to ultimately own and operate my own publishing company.

Q & A

What do you do and Why do you do it?

Currently I am a freelance blogger and editor of SOUL magazine. As cliché as this might sound my response to this question is simple. I do it because I love it. I found my passion at age 10 or 11 and have been hooked ever since. Also, as it pertains to SOUL, the goal is to help other artists have a platform to use their voices to speak about any and everything they feel is important. Particularly unknown or undiscovered artists, writers, and poets.

Tell us about your most recent work.

My most recent work is SOUL issues 1-4. It is a literary magazine that caters to creativity such as poetry, short stories, blogs and any other creative format one wishes to use. I created soul because I felt like there was a need for undiscovered artists to have a place to use their gifts.

Who inspires you?

God is truly my greatest inspiration.

What do you consider your “Masterpiece” at this time?

At this time I would consider SOUL my “Masterpiece”

What is your motto in life? 

“Life is what you make it, so make it epic!”

Name your wildest dream. The one you can not imagine achieving, but would love for it to come true. 

This is a difficult question because I have so many dreams. However, I want to say winning a Pulitzer Prize for my work.

What is your favorite quote? 

“In complete darkness we are all the same. It is only our knowledge and wisdom that separates us. Don’t let your eyes deceive you.” Janet Jackson

When it is all said and done, what would you like to be remembered for?

I’d like to be remembered for the passion I have for my gift and for my ability to help others achieve their goals.

Tell us about your next project and when will it be available to the public?

Currently, I am working to create a website for my books so that readers and writers can get to know me better and have access to my work.

Where can fans purchase your work?

My work can be purchased from Lulu.

Social Media

©Candis Johnson used with permission

Twitter: @_harlems_child

Instagram 1: _s.o.u.lsistahmagazine_ 

Instagram2: soulliterarymagazine

Facebook: Candis Johnson

Snapchat: candythepoet

When Queens Speak!

Good Morning Lovies,

I am so excited to share with you guys a FREE anthology of poetry called “When Queens Speak” (Royalty Reaches the Masses). I am proud to say four of my poems were included in this collection in honor of National Poetry Month. I hope you will take the time to download your copy. It is only available in e-book form. Many thanks to Rashida V. for putting this together.

Here’s the blurb:

“This E-book is a wonderful Anthology of poetry written by multiple American women. It’s eclectic, thought provoking and sincere. Each poem will enlighten or awaken the mind, the heart or the soul that engages. A dope work of feminine poetic energy surged into one. This is a must read.”

Click Here to download your FREE copy via Smashwords.

Indie Shine – Jennifer Robinson

In this edition of Indie Shine, a place for rebirthoflisa to “Shine” the spotlight on indie artists, we welcome author and poet, Jennifer Robinson!

©Jennifer Robinson used with permission

Bio:

Lover of food, music and words! I am a poet, aspiring author and blogger

Q&A

What do you do and Why do you do it?

I am a writer and I write because I have to. Writing is how my thoughts and feelings are manifested. If I could not share my heart, I would be lost. My sister told me that I have something to say that the world needs to hear so…I write!

Tell us about your most recent work.

I have written a book of poetry entitled “But…there’s love”. It was very difficult to publish because my poems aren’t just words thrown together; my poems are what I’m feeling. They are intimate. It became easier when I discovered I was not alone in my feelings and others could relate.

Who inspires you?

Jill Scott is quite possibly my biggest influence. The way she writes is just…it’s perfect. I am also a fan of Carolyn Malachi. I love her poetic, spoken word musical style.

What do you consider your “Masterpiece” at this time?

I wrote a poem entitled “Beauty” with someone else in mind. However, I found out the words came so easily because it was really for me. It’s about the struggle with low self-esteem. I’ve written probably about 200 poems but this one is easily my favorite.

©Jennifer Robinson used with permission

What is your motto in life?

“Silver and gold, have I none, but SUCH AS I HAVE give I thee”. I live by the motto of such as I have. Whatever I have to give, be it money, a poem, words of encouragement, a shoulder to lean on, a smile, or a truth talk, then that is what I will give.

Name your wildest dream. The one you can not imagine achieving, but would love for it to come true.

I want to travel the country to eat. I love food, although I am somewhat of a picky eater. I want my best friend and I to leave our kids and just go around the country trying new foods.

What is your favorite quote?

“I don’t walk around, trying to be what I’m not. I don’t waste my time, trying to get what you got. I work at pleasing me, cause I can’t please you. And that’s why I do what I do”-Erykah Badu

When it is all said and done, what would you like to be remembered for?

That I cast fear to the side and shared what I love.

Tell us about your next project and when will it be available to the public?

My next book “Conversations of the heart” will be available in March.

Where can fans purchase your work?

My book can be purchased on Authorhouse.com, Amazon and Barnes and Noble. It is available as a paperback and ebook.

Social Media

Facebook:  Author Jennifer Robinson

Instagram: AuthorJenniferRobinson

Twitter: @jennrobpoetry

Blog: myemeraldlife.wordpress.com

Indie Shine – James Gordon(Greatest Poet Alive)

In this edition of Indie Shine, a place for rebirthoflisa to ‘Shine’ the spotlight on indie artists, we welcome International award winning author and poet James Gordon, aka, The Greatest Poet Alive!

©James Gordon used with permission

Bio:

James Gordon is an international award winning author and poet from Chicago’s south side, as well as a champion storyteller and reigning Moth Grand Slam Storytelling Champion. He has written books across the genres consisting of Poetry, Children’s Young Adult, Mystery and Suspense, and Erotica. James can be seen on episodes of Chicago Fire,Empire, Chicago Justice, Chicago PD, The Patriot, Chicago Med, and Shameless. He can also be found on Twitter at gr8estpoetalive and on his website at www.iblowyourmind.net

Q & A:

What do you do and Why do you do it? 

I love writing, reciting poetry, telling stories, and being an actor. These are gifts from God. I would be foolish and insulting if I didn’t utilize them to the fullest.

Tell us about your most recent work.

Angelica’s Box The Evolving is the continuing and raising of a previous bar set by its predecessor, Angelica’s Box. It is not only an ode to women, a narrative of the authors’ interactions with them, but also a commentary on the times. It has the length and feel of a novella but written in some rhyming verse and colorful depictions.

Who inspires you?

My family, winners, and legends such as Langston Hughes, John Cena, 50 Cent, Kanye West, Miles Livingston, Batman, and plenty of others

What do you consider your “Masterpiece” at this time?

That’s a great question. Angelica’s Box(The first one) is the book I would consider my masterpiece. It was brilliantly written

What is your motto in life? 

Go get it!!!

Name your wildest dream. The one you can not imagine achieving, but would love for it to come true. 

I want to be a villain in a superhero movie. That would be the ultimate!!!

What is your favorite quote? 

WOOO!!!! It’s the phrase Ric Flair once used.

When it is all said and done, what would you like to be remembered for?

I’d like to be remembered as someone who gave it everything he had in everything he did.

Tell us about your next project and when will it be available to the public?

A Cruel Summer is the follow up to my first novel “The Warmest Winter”. It will arrive some time in June 2017.

Where can fans purchase your work?

Amazon, Barnes and Noble, an at my website www.iblowyourmind.net

Social Media:

©James Gordon used with permission

Facebook: ThePoeticUnsub

Facebook: HimynameisBobo

Reverb Nation: gpagreatestpoetalive

https://youtu.be/sRz3cgVPm8k

Wise Words Wednesday – Maya Angelou

This week’s wise words comes from one of my favorite people who ever walked the planet. Yesterday was Dr. Maya Angelou’s birthday as well as this month being National Poetry Month. ‘Mama Maya’ as she is affectionately called was one of the wisest people to live IMHO. 

The below quote tells us her mission in life and I have no doubt that she accomplished all of it before making her transition. 

She was a great speaker and a brilliant wordsmith. Check out the video below for one of my favorite talks she gave:

Melanade – Beah Richards

Melanade is a place for women of color, who are doing great things in the world, to be honored. I am quite aware that Beah Richards is deceased, however, I feel her voice and bodies of work are still making a great impact in this world.

 

Beah Richards(1920 – 2000) was a poet, playwright and author, but she was best known as an actress of “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner” fame, where she earned an Academy Award nomination.She was a at home on the stage, staring in James Baldwin’s “Amen Corner”.  She was also a staple on television throughout her career. In 1988 she received her first Emmy for her performance in ‘Frank’s Place’ and again in 2000 she was honored with the Emmy just days before her death for her role in ‘The Practice’.

She was a strong activist who fought for equality for blacks in America. She did not hold her tongue and was willing to die for her beliefs. In 2004, Lisa Gay Hamilton accepted The Peabody Award for Beah:A Black Woman Speaks, a biographical film about Beah’s life.

Indie Shine – Ranjeeta Nath Ghai

In our February edition of Indie Shine, a place for @rebirthoflisa to ‘Shine’ the spotlight on indie artists, we welcome poet Ranjeeta Nath Ghai.

Bio:

©Ranjeeta Nath Ghai used with permission

Born to a Gujarati mother, Assamese father in MH Agra Cantt, Uttar Pradesh, brought up in New Delhi and married to a Punjabi… I have a rich cultural background. “Mann Ki आरज़ू” is my debut attempt at publishing a few of my poems which I have been writing since 1985 to date. Being an army BRAT(Born Raised And Transferred) and Army Officer’s wife I have had the golden opportunity denied to many(and mine by birth)… to have covered the length and breadth of India, and seeing it in its splendor. Hardly have I ever lived in any state for more than a period of 2 years. Giving up my promising career as a graphic designer I build a parallel career as an educationist, to spend more time with my expanding family. My life has been enriched by my seven furry buddies who with their unconditional love have always been a de-stressing factor of my life teaching me to value and love all HIS creations unconditionally. From being a daughter to being a mother, from a caregiver to being loved back in return, being a friend and having friends worth dying for, life has come a full circle. “Life has treated me good and God has been kind to me. Looking back today I feel no regret as I have lived and celebrated each moment of my life with passion, on my own terms and conditions.” You can follow her blog: http://atrangizindagieksafar.wordpress.com

Q & A:

What do you do and Why do you do it?

I am a mentor. Teaching is my passion and I love to express my feelings through poetry.

Tell us about your most recent work

My most recent work is a collection of poems of the past 35 years called Mann Ki Aarzoo, an Amalgamation of Sentiments. It is my maiden venture in book publishing.

Who inspires you?

I am inspired by LIFE. what i see, how i perceive, and what goes on around me… all are converted into poems.

What do you consider your “Masterpiece” at this time? 

My best is yet to come… but for beginners… its my book Mann Ki Aarzoo

What is your motto in life?

Live and let life

Name your wildest dream. The one you can not imagine achieving, but would love for it to come true.

My wildest dream would be my books breaking all records.

What is your favorite quote?

It is a Bengali quote by Rabindranath Tagore:

“Jodi tor daak shune keu na aashe tobe ekla cholo re. Ekla cholo ekla cholo ekla cholo ekla cholo re.” (“IF THEY ANSWER not to thy call walk alone, If they are afraid and cower mutely facing the wall, O thou of evil luck, Open thy mind and speak out alone.”)

When it is all said and done, what would you like to be remembered for?

When it is all said and done, I want to be remembered for standing up for truth and justice; be it towards humans or animals.

Tell us about your next project and when will it be available to the public?

My next book will be Chandramauli, A Ray of Hope. It should be available by April 2018.

Where can fans purchase your work?

It’s available on Notion Press, Amazon.in, Amazon.UK., Flipkart… all you have to do is type the name 🙂 For US Amazon Click Here.

There you have it Lovies. I hope you will not only purchase Ranjeeta’s inspirational poetry, but also follow her on social media.

Social Media Links:

Ranjeeta and her Mother at the World Book Fair

Twitter: @ghainath

Facebook: ranjeetanath.ghai

Blog: atrangizindagieksafar