Diana Anderson
Diana Anderson grew up on a farm in southeastern Oklahoma. She studied police science and government at Seminole State College in Oklahoma. She and her husband now live in rural northwestern Mississippi. Besides writing, she is a professional photographer and portrait artist. Her artworks include a painting of the Mayor of Horn Lake’s official portrait in City Hall, along with other private commissions. She has done professional photo shoots with bands and for weddings and also worked as a free-lance photographer for the Southaven Press. She does her own cover art for her novels.
At a very young age she used her imagination to escape to worlds of mystery and adventure. During her high school years, she began to write stories. Her English teacher encouraged her to continue in that direction as he saw in her a potential future novelist. She later married, raised four children, and then began writing professionally.
She writes southern, dark mystery-thrillers with a touch of romance and humor.
Famous in a Small Town
The quiet town of Cypress, Mississippi is turned upside down when a former citizen, Raven Sawyer, returns for a funeral. Raven’s fictional novel goes viral when the town folk realize that she’s the author, and soon they’re thinking that her book is not fiction but truth. Every little dirty detail is revealed in her book and has the people of Cypress wagging their tongues and shaking their heads at a few of the upper-class citizens and—the Sheriff.
All Raven wants is to get through the funeral and go back to New York, but Sheriff Cal Rayburn can’t allow her to leave after she discovers and turns over evidence that may be connected to a double homicide that he’s investigating. At least, that’s the excuse he’s giving her, and he’ll go to any length to keep her in Cypress until he can make her believe that the affair, that she thinks he had six years ago, never happened.
When more dead bodies turn up, Cal feels they’re connected to the double homicide, but with the evidence he has, he can’t make a connection. He’s left with more questions than answers. He’s told that Raven’s novel may have answers to questions that could help with his investigation, but what it reveals is more than what he wants to know.
Famous in a Small Town is book one of An Entering Southern Country Novel trilogy. It has murder, lies, fiction, and truth—and more twists and turns than the back roads of northwestern Mississippi. Enter at your own risk.
www.DianaAnderson.net
At a very young age she used her imagination to escape to worlds of mystery and adventure. During her high school years, she began to write stories. Her English teacher encouraged her to continue in that direction as he saw in her a potential future novelist. She later married, raised four children, and then began writing professionally.
She writes southern, dark mystery-thrillers with a touch of romance and humor.
Famous in a Small Town
The quiet town of Cypress, Mississippi is turned upside down when a former citizen, Raven Sawyer, returns for a funeral. Raven’s fictional novel goes viral when the town folk realize that she’s the author, and soon they’re thinking that her book is not fiction but truth. Every little dirty detail is revealed in her book and has the people of Cypress wagging their tongues and shaking their heads at a few of the upper-class citizens and—the Sheriff.
All Raven wants is to get through the funeral and go back to New York, but Sheriff Cal Rayburn can’t allow her to leave after she discovers and turns over evidence that may be connected to a double homicide that he’s investigating. At least, that’s the excuse he’s giving her, and he’ll go to any length to keep her in Cypress until he can make her believe that the affair, that she thinks he had six years ago, never happened.
When more dead bodies turn up, Cal feels they’re connected to the double homicide, but with the evidence he has, he can’t make a connection. He’s left with more questions than answers. He’s told that Raven’s novel may have answers to questions that could help with his investigation, but what it reveals is more than what he wants to know.
Famous in a Small Town is book one of An Entering Southern Country Novel trilogy. It has murder, lies, fiction, and truth—and more twists and turns than the back roads of northwestern Mississippi. Enter at your own risk.
www.DianaAnderson.net
Arthur Avant
Arthur Avant has written two books: To Find a Friend and The Art of Love.
He is an officer with the Senatobia Police Department and recently finished composing 365 poems in 55 days.
He is known locally as Double A by his many young fans and coaches track for fun.
[email protected]
Dr. David Ball
The most important thing you need to know about me is that I accepted Jesus as my personal Savior at the age of 8 in my home church in Columbia, MS. I have a conservative view of the Scriptures. I believe the Bible is the Holy, inspired, inerrant, infallible, immutable, and life changing Word of God. The next most important thing you need to know about me is that I married the former Patricia Dale Odom in 1964 and for 49 years I have never regretted it. God has blessed us with three wonderful children. Our two sons are practicing physicians and our daughter is a Law School graduate who has chosen to be a full time mother.
I graduated from the University of Mississippi School of Medicine in 1967 and interned at Wilford Hall, USAF Hospital, in San Antonio, TX. Spent a year in Viet Nam as a Flight Surgeon, and returned to Mississippi as a General Practitioner in Batesville, MS in 1970. For 23 years I was chief of the Emergency Department at South Panola Community Hospital in Batesville, MS.
Summary of...The Crucifixion and Death of a Man Called Jesus: From the Eyes of a Physician
The crucifixion and resurrection is "bedrock" theology for the Christian faith. But for the non-believer it is preposterous to believe someone could truly die and then rise on the third day as the Bible claims regarding Jesus. The most common rebuttal for the claims of the New Testament account is that Jesus did not, in fact die. This leads to the conclusion that the resurrection is a fabricated fable. Without solid evidence to the contrary, any rational person would be forced to agree and conclude the Bible is an interesting collection of outdated legends that fail to pass the scrutiny of the modern, enlightened, scientific mind.
But the Bible is no ordinary book. The evidence for the actual death of Jesus is incredibly detailed—leaving us to conclude without reservations that He did actually die on a Roman cross.
[email protected]
I graduated from the University of Mississippi School of Medicine in 1967 and interned at Wilford Hall, USAF Hospital, in San Antonio, TX. Spent a year in Viet Nam as a Flight Surgeon, and returned to Mississippi as a General Practitioner in Batesville, MS in 1970. For 23 years I was chief of the Emergency Department at South Panola Community Hospital in Batesville, MS.
Summary of...The Crucifixion and Death of a Man Called Jesus: From the Eyes of a Physician
The crucifixion and resurrection is "bedrock" theology for the Christian faith. But for the non-believer it is preposterous to believe someone could truly die and then rise on the third day as the Bible claims regarding Jesus. The most common rebuttal for the claims of the New Testament account is that Jesus did not, in fact die. This leads to the conclusion that the resurrection is a fabricated fable. Without solid evidence to the contrary, any rational person would be forced to agree and conclude the Bible is an interesting collection of outdated legends that fail to pass the scrutiny of the modern, enlightened, scientific mind.
But the Bible is no ordinary book. The evidence for the actual death of Jesus is incredibly detailed—leaving us to conclude without reservations that He did actually die on a Roman cross.
[email protected]
Howard Boling
I live in Senatobia, Mississippi. I have been married for 21 years and have four children and one grandchild.
A life long artist, poet, and writer.
I tend to explore the darker side of life in my artwork and writings.
My books include:
Hell's Castaway (dark poetry, writings, & illustrations)
Loralai the Lonely & Stanley's Lost Gift, both from the children's series Loralia Ledbetter
http://www.facebook.com/howardboling
Debbie Boutwell
Debbie Boutwell is a transplanted Mississippi Coast native, who ended up in North Mississippi, by way of Utah. Debbie completed her education by getting degrees in Library Science and Instructional Technology from the Universities of Southern Mississippi, and Utah State. She considers herself a Librarian and Storyteller. She is currently employed by Northwest Mississippi Community College as a librarian on the Oxford Campus. Debbie’s past employment has also covered elementary, middle school, public, and university libraries. She currently resides in Oxford, MS with her husband. Her family includes 3 children and 2 grandchildren, all who have scattered in the wind, but love to return to Oxford whenever possible.
Throughout her career her major area of interest has been in children’s literature and storytelling. So it was a natural progression to move from telling folktales, sharing book talks and story time, into writing original stories. Debbie initially started the Laz the Magic Boy stories as an homage to her first grandchild Lazarus.
Once upon a time there was a Grammy, a Papaw and a special little boy named Laz. His Grammy loved stories and wanted him to love stories as well, so she would share books and tell him stories from the time he was just a baby. One day she told Laz a story about himself and just how special he was. She told him that he was a very special little boy who could do all kinds of wonderful things. She even called him "Magic", and so the "Laz the Magic Boy" stories started. Every time he would come to visit his Grammy and Papaw, Grammy would tell him a new story about the Magic Boy. Mostly they were told in the dark, just before Laz would fall asleep. Sometimes she would write one down, but often they were just for telling. The blog, Laz, The Magic Boy was a way to give Grammy Debbie a place to record the "Laz the Magic Boy" stories so that Laz the real boy could read them anytime he wanted. The books came later and became a way for Debbie to share the magic of a little boy’s imagination. Now the stories have evolved to include Laz creating the situation that needs a “magic” fix and a collaborative telling. The stories still love to be told in the dark.
[email protected]
Throughout her career her major area of interest has been in children’s literature and storytelling. So it was a natural progression to move from telling folktales, sharing book talks and story time, into writing original stories. Debbie initially started the Laz the Magic Boy stories as an homage to her first grandchild Lazarus.
Once upon a time there was a Grammy, a Papaw and a special little boy named Laz. His Grammy loved stories and wanted him to love stories as well, so she would share books and tell him stories from the time he was just a baby. One day she told Laz a story about himself and just how special he was. She told him that he was a very special little boy who could do all kinds of wonderful things. She even called him "Magic", and so the "Laz the Magic Boy" stories started. Every time he would come to visit his Grammy and Papaw, Grammy would tell him a new story about the Magic Boy. Mostly they were told in the dark, just before Laz would fall asleep. Sometimes she would write one down, but often they were just for telling. The blog, Laz, The Magic Boy was a way to give Grammy Debbie a place to record the "Laz the Magic Boy" stories so that Laz the real boy could read them anytime he wanted. The books came later and became a way for Debbie to share the magic of a little boy’s imagination. Now the stories have evolved to include Laz creating the situation that needs a “magic” fix and a collaborative telling. The stories still love to be told in the dark.
[email protected]
Pat Brannon
Award-winning Christian and children’s author Pat Brannon is the author of several books that can be found around the world. She is also a Southern Gospel songwriter, a speaker, singer, performer and an encourager from Amory, MS.
As the author of 15 books with more in progress, some of Pat’s popular books include Walk Softly (You’re Steppin’ On My Heart!), Has a Donkey Ever Brought You Breakfast in Bed?, Show and Smell and Violet's Not-So-Velvet Voice (which has been endorsed by Cary Solomon & Chuck Konzelman, the scriptwriters of the blockbuster Christian film-GOD'S NOT DEAD). Pat's next children's book, Tripp's Ridiculous Road Trip, will be released soon.
Parents and educators everywhere will appreciate the fact that all of Pat’s fun, entertaining children’s books contain important life lessons without being preachy. Some of those lessons are about overcoming fear, choosing your friends carefully and turning criticism into kindness.
Having grown up in a large musical family, writing songs, books and poems are like breathing to Pat. She has a passion for writing and pursues that passion with all the gusto she can muster. And, she loves people.
Growing up on the musical stage, Pat loves singing and performing. Since the age of nine, she has been a member of three Country bands and appeared on the small stage, radio and television. She is a featured soloist at Meadowood Baptist Church and is an active member of the Adult Sanctuary Choir. And, Pat is the founding member of Lifeline, a local Southern Gospel group in her church that's been together 20 plus years. She is also a longtime member of SCBWI (the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators).
When Pat isn’t singing, you can find her at schools doing her full monologue in character about bullying. Not only is this presentation great for schools, it’s perfect for churches also and for all ages.
You should consider inviting Pat to your church for another reason too. She is a two-time cancer survivor and a stem cell transplant recipient. Sharing how the Lord has been an active part of Pat’s life since her miracle birth is something she loves to do. And, it’s a story you need to hear.
Morrilton, AR is Pat’s hometown, but she and her family have lived in Amory, MS for more than 30 years.
To invite Pat to your school, church, civic or community event, you may contact her at [email protected]. Don’t forget to visit her website too at www.patbrannon.com.
As the author of 15 books with more in progress, some of Pat’s popular books include Walk Softly (You’re Steppin’ On My Heart!), Has a Donkey Ever Brought You Breakfast in Bed?, Show and Smell and Violet's Not-So-Velvet Voice (which has been endorsed by Cary Solomon & Chuck Konzelman, the scriptwriters of the blockbuster Christian film-GOD'S NOT DEAD). Pat's next children's book, Tripp's Ridiculous Road Trip, will be released soon.
Parents and educators everywhere will appreciate the fact that all of Pat’s fun, entertaining children’s books contain important life lessons without being preachy. Some of those lessons are about overcoming fear, choosing your friends carefully and turning criticism into kindness.
Having grown up in a large musical family, writing songs, books and poems are like breathing to Pat. She has a passion for writing and pursues that passion with all the gusto she can muster. And, she loves people.
Growing up on the musical stage, Pat loves singing and performing. Since the age of nine, she has been a member of three Country bands and appeared on the small stage, radio and television. She is a featured soloist at Meadowood Baptist Church and is an active member of the Adult Sanctuary Choir. And, Pat is the founding member of Lifeline, a local Southern Gospel group in her church that's been together 20 plus years. She is also a longtime member of SCBWI (the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators).
When Pat isn’t singing, you can find her at schools doing her full monologue in character about bullying. Not only is this presentation great for schools, it’s perfect for churches also and for all ages.
You should consider inviting Pat to your church for another reason too. She is a two-time cancer survivor and a stem cell transplant recipient. Sharing how the Lord has been an active part of Pat’s life since her miracle birth is something she loves to do. And, it’s a story you need to hear.
Morrilton, AR is Pat’s hometown, but she and her family have lived in Amory, MS for more than 30 years.
To invite Pat to your school, church, civic or community event, you may contact her at [email protected]. Don’t forget to visit her website too at www.patbrannon.com.
Dr. Sue Clifton
Dr. Sue Clifton is a fly fisher, retired educator, present day ghost hunter, lover of all things vintage, and published author of eight novels.
Her writing career was put on hold while she traveled the world with her husband Woody in his career and with her own career as a teacher and school administrator in Mississippi, Alaska, New Zealand, and Montana.
The places she has lived provide rich background for the novels she creates. Dr. Sue now divides her time among Mississippi, Arkansas, and Montana with her husband Woody.
http://www.drsueclifton.com/
Her writing career was put on hold while she traveled the world with her husband Woody in his career and with her own career as a teacher and school administrator in Mississippi, Alaska, New Zealand, and Montana.
The places she has lived provide rich background for the novels she creates. Dr. Sue now divides her time among Mississippi, Arkansas, and Montana with her husband Woody.
http://www.drsueclifton.com/
Lisa Cockrell
Everyone has been fascinated by hummingbirds at one time or another. Now, Lisa Cockrell, shows you how to build a hummer garden so you too can enjoy the sights of these amazing creatures. Full of advice and personal photos from her own hummer garden, The Hummer Garden gives you the ground work to create something special and marvel at one of life’s truly remarkable birds, the hummingbird.
An Inspired Life is a book of quotes that is dedicated to providing you with an uplifting and motivational thought every day of the year. Lisa Cockrell brings her positive view of life, along with all of the wisdom she has learned over the years, and continues to learn, to help you reach the joy and happiness in your life that you deserve.
www.lisacockrell.com
Dr. Mike Cockrell
Hi. I am Dr. Mike Cockrell. I am a husband, a father, a family practice physician, local business owner, author, entrepreneur, business coach and life coach. I love helping others realize the true potential they have within them for success and happiness. Over the past two decades, I have been very successful in building and growing a number of successful business enterprises. My vision is to empower individuals to seek out their purpose and then to teach them how to share their vision with the world.
I have dedicated the past few years to educating myself to be a more effective communicator and trainer and I am constantly seeking more knowledge to share with others so that I can assist them in their quest for success and happiness. I am a firm believer that each and every person has a story to tell and that there are countless others on earth that need to hear those stories. I am committed to helping others get their stories out to the world. Life is about learning to seek your passion in every aspect of your life.
In my clinical practice, I see so many people that are drowning in their own dissatisfaction. People are drudging through life with no sense of direction. They are stuck in dead end jobs. Their hearts are not in their work. They are doing things that other people have convinced them that they should be doing without any regards to following their hearts and they are miserable.
This lack of purpose in their lives is leading them into a state of depression and sadness. Their physical, emotional and spiritual lives are in a state of disrepair and they are left wondering is this all there is? I am convinced that each and everyone one of us has the ability to create the life we desire no matter what our current circumstances. We have the power to choose our own destiny. I realize that most people do not have enough belief in themselves to follow their dreams. Most people would rather settle for unhappiness in their lives than to step out of their comfort zones and start to create the life they desire.
I am committed to sharing the knowledge and information that I have at my disposal to anyone seeking to take back control of their life. I am doing this by sharing my knowledge and wisdom in the books I write, through my Facebook fanpage at www.facebook.com/drmikecockrell and through my popular blog site at www.DrMikeCockrell.com.
With Why Am I So Happy?, Dr. Mike Cockrell embarks on a fresh approach that teaches you how to achieve success and happiness in your life. Mike’s groundbreaking approach to teaching gives you an inside look at how he was born and raised in a small Mississippi town to a family that struggled financially and how he grew, through his families love and dedication as well as his own desire to have the life he always wanted, into a prominent physician and entrepreneur. Mike takes you on a personal journey with deeply personal stories, some of which he’s sharing for the very first time. Join Mike on this journey of discovery, hardship, and ultimately success and learn firsthand what he prescribes for success and happiness.
I have dedicated the past few years to educating myself to be a more effective communicator and trainer and I am constantly seeking more knowledge to share with others so that I can assist them in their quest for success and happiness. I am a firm believer that each and every person has a story to tell and that there are countless others on earth that need to hear those stories. I am committed to helping others get their stories out to the world. Life is about learning to seek your passion in every aspect of your life.
In my clinical practice, I see so many people that are drowning in their own dissatisfaction. People are drudging through life with no sense of direction. They are stuck in dead end jobs. Their hearts are not in their work. They are doing things that other people have convinced them that they should be doing without any regards to following their hearts and they are miserable.
This lack of purpose in their lives is leading them into a state of depression and sadness. Their physical, emotional and spiritual lives are in a state of disrepair and they are left wondering is this all there is? I am convinced that each and everyone one of us has the ability to create the life we desire no matter what our current circumstances. We have the power to choose our own destiny. I realize that most people do not have enough belief in themselves to follow their dreams. Most people would rather settle for unhappiness in their lives than to step out of their comfort zones and start to create the life they desire.
I am committed to sharing the knowledge and information that I have at my disposal to anyone seeking to take back control of their life. I am doing this by sharing my knowledge and wisdom in the books I write, through my Facebook fanpage at www.facebook.com/drmikecockrell and through my popular blog site at www.DrMikeCockrell.com.
With Why Am I So Happy?, Dr. Mike Cockrell embarks on a fresh approach that teaches you how to achieve success and happiness in your life. Mike’s groundbreaking approach to teaching gives you an inside look at how he was born and raised in a small Mississippi town to a family that struggled financially and how he grew, through his families love and dedication as well as his own desire to have the life he always wanted, into a prominent physician and entrepreneur. Mike takes you on a personal journey with deeply personal stories, some of which he’s sharing for the very first time. Join Mike on this journey of discovery, hardship, and ultimately success and learn firsthand what he prescribes for success and happiness.
Scriptural Thoughts by Rev. Raymond Cross
The titles of my books are: Scriptural Thoughts and Words to Think About.
Scriptural Thoughts is simply 16 short chapters of Biblical information, but in an easily understood format. It reveals deeper meanings of Biblical concepts, with many of them being revealed for the first time. Because the Bible is relatively mysterious, it is difficult to understand, unless one diligently studies its history, archeology and commentaries by many authors.
Scriptural Thoughts attempts to answer such questions as: Was the flood universal or localized? Do the creation days reveal God's plans for man? Is there such a thing as Supernatural or Spiritual faith? This book is designed to help the reader understand more about God, Jesus and The Bible. It also is written that man is better able to realize his position in the plans God has for this world.
Words to Think About is based on my having written a weekly 500 word message for The Southern Reporter Sardis, MS newspaper. (which, after 137 years, went out of business) Using many of those messages, Words to Think About is not an official Bible commentary, but a series of short analysis of various verses throughout the Bible. Many people have commented on these messages when it was printed in The Southern Reporter, because it was very helpful to them for better understanding of scripture.
Both of these books, Scriptural Thoughts and Words to Think About are a result of my having received Jesus as Lord. These books sells for $10.00 to me, but are more expensive in stores.
A short bio of my history: my life changed dramatically after I received Jesus as my LORD and Savior in 1966. I was a 38 year old design engineer for IBM with a scientific-engineering background. (I have 25 patent publications and one patent with IBM.) My life and world-view of 38 years needed to undo a lot of learning, literally to unlearn many false teachings. I had to also answer many questions. Having been brought up without any religion or belief requires diligent study to find truth.
After several more years with IBM, I took early retirement and went to Reformed Seminary in Jackson, MS, and became a Presbyterian Church in America, Minister. The Sardis Presbyterian Church in America, Sardis, MS, was my first church call and except for two years in Japan as a church planter, my ministry has been in this area. After Japan, I filled in at several churches and spent the last few years as the Sardis Presbyterian Church Interim Minister. I still preach occasionally when called to fill in.
I sincerely thank you for this opportunity for book signing, because my main intent is to get God's word out. I desire for people to know, not only more about God, but also to give them perspective, to better understand their position with God in these last days.
[email protected]
Scriptural Thoughts is simply 16 short chapters of Biblical information, but in an easily understood format. It reveals deeper meanings of Biblical concepts, with many of them being revealed for the first time. Because the Bible is relatively mysterious, it is difficult to understand, unless one diligently studies its history, archeology and commentaries by many authors.
Scriptural Thoughts attempts to answer such questions as: Was the flood universal or localized? Do the creation days reveal God's plans for man? Is there such a thing as Supernatural or Spiritual faith? This book is designed to help the reader understand more about God, Jesus and The Bible. It also is written that man is better able to realize his position in the plans God has for this world.
Words to Think About is based on my having written a weekly 500 word message for The Southern Reporter Sardis, MS newspaper. (which, after 137 years, went out of business) Using many of those messages, Words to Think About is not an official Bible commentary, but a series of short analysis of various verses throughout the Bible. Many people have commented on these messages when it was printed in The Southern Reporter, because it was very helpful to them for better understanding of scripture.
Both of these books, Scriptural Thoughts and Words to Think About are a result of my having received Jesus as Lord. These books sells for $10.00 to me, but are more expensive in stores.
A short bio of my history: my life changed dramatically after I received Jesus as my LORD and Savior in 1966. I was a 38 year old design engineer for IBM with a scientific-engineering background. (I have 25 patent publications and one patent with IBM.) My life and world-view of 38 years needed to undo a lot of learning, literally to unlearn many false teachings. I had to also answer many questions. Having been brought up without any religion or belief requires diligent study to find truth.
After several more years with IBM, I took early retirement and went to Reformed Seminary in Jackson, MS, and became a Presbyterian Church in America, Minister. The Sardis Presbyterian Church in America, Sardis, MS, was my first church call and except for two years in Japan as a church planter, my ministry has been in this area. After Japan, I filled in at several churches and spent the last few years as the Sardis Presbyterian Church Interim Minister. I still preach occasionally when called to fill in.
I sincerely thank you for this opportunity for book signing, because my main intent is to get God's word out. I desire for people to know, not only more about God, but also to give them perspective, to better understand their position with God in these last days.
[email protected]
Pamela DeLoach-Darby
“I am a wife, mother, grandmother and a Christian. That about sums it up....nice to meet you.”
Pamela has written three books: Expressions of Faith, What Country Means To Me, and Shauna's Frog.
expressionso.blogspot.com
Mary (Jody) Dickson
My name is Mary Dickson but friends and family know me as Jody. I am a 32-year old Christian author/artist who lives in Tate County. I graduated from NWCC as a member of Phi Theta Kappa society.
I have been writing since I was in the 8th grade; however, I never pursued publication until after the LORD saved me (11/14/11) from lifestyle choices that were just atrocious. The desire of my heart is to offer hope and help to those who are hurting ... like I was.
All of my writings are faith based because my faith defines who I am. I self-publish all of my books, and sell them out of my home, at church speaking engagements, or at book signings. All of my writing and artwork is faith based. I am a member of Grace Bible Church (a Reformed Baptist church) in Coldwater, MS.
http://alifejourneywithjesus.wordpress.com
Patricia Neely-Dorsey
Patricia Neely-Dorsey is a 1982 graduate of Tupelo High School in Tupelo, Mississippi. She received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology from Boston University in Boston, Massachusetts. After living for almost 20 years in Memphis, Tennessee, working in the mental health field, she returned to her hometown in August 2007. Her first book of poetry was published in February, 2008 .
Patricia currently lives in Tupelo with her husband James, son Henry, and Miniature Schnauzer, Happy. She is a proud, active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., an avid reader and passionate writer.
Patricia says that she has always considered herself a "Goodwill Ambassador" for Mississippi and the South and hopes to promote more positive images, rather than all of the negatives usually portrayed.
She says that she believes that we can bridge many gaps of misunderstanding across regional, racial, cultural, generational and economic lines by simply telling/sharing our stories
The author hopes , through her writings, to have an intimate conversation with readers about the south... giving an up-close and personal view of the southern way of life.
Using poetic storytelling, she seeks to not only, entertain , but also, educate and enlighten, while helping to preserve the beautiful, rich southern culture, history and heritage that she knows, along with promoting and fostering an appreciation and understanding of the importance of cultural diversity, individuality, self expression and regional pride.
www.patricianeelydorsey.webs.com
Patricia currently lives in Tupelo with her husband James, son Henry, and Miniature Schnauzer, Happy. She is a proud, active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., an avid reader and passionate writer.
Patricia says that she has always considered herself a "Goodwill Ambassador" for Mississippi and the South and hopes to promote more positive images, rather than all of the negatives usually portrayed.
She says that she believes that we can bridge many gaps of misunderstanding across regional, racial, cultural, generational and economic lines by simply telling/sharing our stories
The author hopes , through her writings, to have an intimate conversation with readers about the south... giving an up-close and personal view of the southern way of life.
Using poetic storytelling, she seeks to not only, entertain , but also, educate and enlighten, while helping to preserve the beautiful, rich southern culture, history and heritage that she knows, along with promoting and fostering an appreciation and understanding of the importance of cultural diversity, individuality, self expression and regional pride.
www.patricianeelydorsey.webs.com
Ruth Duke
I was born October 23, 1926 into a loving share cropping family. I was the oldest child of my father who was the oldest of eight siblings. My mother was the seventh child in a family of 15 children. When I started to school we lived near Falkner, Mississippi. For the first and second grade I rode to school in a covered wagon. By the third grade a one room school had been built closer to home. First through eighth grades were taught. I walked to school about two miles - down a muddy road alone. When I was nine years old we moved to Memphis. I finished my education at Whitehaven High School in 1945.
I lived through the great depression of the 1930's and was familiar with the WPA and CCC work projects.
On Sunday December 7, 1941, our celebration of mother's 34th birthday was interrupted by President Roosevelt on the radio announcing that the Japanese had boomed Pearl Harbor. Our hearts were wrenched as family members began to be drafted. Little did we realize the war would last four long years. During high school I kept correspondence going with 18 different service men and was a member of the USO. In 1945 I became a war bride and moved to the mountains of Kentucky. After six turbulent years I returned home with a divorce and two small girls to raise. Thank the Lord my family welcomed me back with open arms. I landed a job with Sears, Roebuck and Company that lasted 38 years. In 1954 I met the 'love of my life'. A sailor who had just mustered out of service after serving as cook on the Air Craft Carrier, Intrepid in World War II and on a troupe carrier during the Korean War. He was anxious to have a family and took me and the girls under his wing and cared for us the next 50 years. We added one more daughter. He was from a family of six brothers.
We were married in Whitehaven Methodist Church and served there for the entire 50 years. We had many happy times and a few bad ones. We lost the oldest daughter at age 22 as a result of a car wreck. My husband was diagnosed with stomach cancer in 1984. After having his stomach removed he lived 20 years and died in 2004. During the years we traveled to 49 states, went through the Panama Canal, visited many foreign countries, and was always ready for the football season at Ole Miss. I can see God's hand in every situation we faced. Sticking close together with our large extended family we came through it all with flying colors.
My memoir Hello Are You Listening? will tell you all about it!
[email protected]
I lived through the great depression of the 1930's and was familiar with the WPA and CCC work projects.
On Sunday December 7, 1941, our celebration of mother's 34th birthday was interrupted by President Roosevelt on the radio announcing that the Japanese had boomed Pearl Harbor. Our hearts were wrenched as family members began to be drafted. Little did we realize the war would last four long years. During high school I kept correspondence going with 18 different service men and was a member of the USO. In 1945 I became a war bride and moved to the mountains of Kentucky. After six turbulent years I returned home with a divorce and two small girls to raise. Thank the Lord my family welcomed me back with open arms. I landed a job with Sears, Roebuck and Company that lasted 38 years. In 1954 I met the 'love of my life'. A sailor who had just mustered out of service after serving as cook on the Air Craft Carrier, Intrepid in World War II and on a troupe carrier during the Korean War. He was anxious to have a family and took me and the girls under his wing and cared for us the next 50 years. We added one more daughter. He was from a family of six brothers.
We were married in Whitehaven Methodist Church and served there for the entire 50 years. We had many happy times and a few bad ones. We lost the oldest daughter at age 22 as a result of a car wreck. My husband was diagnosed with stomach cancer in 1984. After having his stomach removed he lived 20 years and died in 2004. During the years we traveled to 49 states, went through the Panama Canal, visited many foreign countries, and was always ready for the football season at Ole Miss. I can see God's hand in every situation we faced. Sticking close together with our large extended family we came through it all with flying colors.
My memoir Hello Are You Listening? will tell you all about it!
[email protected]
Goodnight, Sippi, I Love You by Margaret Eubanks
Born in Mississippi, Margaret Eubanks still resides there today. She retired from the brewing industry after thirty years of service.
She wrote and published Whispers in 2006. Today, she has four titles by her hand. Her latest is Goodnight, Sippi, I Love You. It is her desire to share Sippi’s story, hoping it may help other pet owners.
A portion of the proceeds of this book will be donated to help abused, neglected, and rescued animals.
Mitchel Grace
Mitchel Grace is a twenty-six year old fiction writer from Senatobia, MS. He is the author of several series including the Wrong series, Strange Visions, The Unseen, and Wrong Visions. He has also written a standalone book titled The Divide. His books can be categorized as a mixture of action and romance with sprinkles of comedy throughout.
Mitchel’s early years were spent studying at Northwest Mississippi Community College where he discovered his love of writing in a freshman English class. It wasn’t until after graduation that he actually considered writing as a career, though. The first story he wrote was titled Wrong Place, and since then, he has been writing diligently on his way to eighteen unique works.
In his off time, he enjoys watching movies and playing video games, as well as traveling whenever he gets the chance. Currently, he is working on several projects for this year including Wrong Visions Volume 3, The Divide: Origins, and Destiny. You can reach him at [email protected], on Facebook at facebook.com/Mitchel.Grace.Author, or on Twitter at @MGraceAuthor.
Mitchel’s early years were spent studying at Northwest Mississippi Community College where he discovered his love of writing in a freshman English class. It wasn’t until after graduation that he actually considered writing as a career, though. The first story he wrote was titled Wrong Place, and since then, he has been writing diligently on his way to eighteen unique works.
In his off time, he enjoys watching movies and playing video games, as well as traveling whenever he gets the chance. Currently, he is working on several projects for this year including Wrong Visions Volume 3, The Divide: Origins, and Destiny. You can reach him at [email protected], on Facebook at facebook.com/Mitchel.Grace.Author, or on Twitter at @MGraceAuthor.
Cassandra Hawkins-Wilson
Originally from Water Valley, Cassandra L. Hawkins Wilson is the author of several books including Life and Struggles and Ten Writing Prompts for People Experiencing Divorce. Cassandra is also the owner of Sensational Image Consulting Inc. Additionally, Cassandra teaches English at Jackson State University, where her pedagogy focuses on teaching with technology and enhancing student engagement.
Life and Struggles is a collection of poetry, which exposes true emotions and experiences. Enveloping you in situations and feelings familiar to your own life, Life and Struggles begs you to forgive, forget, and enjoy what life has brought your way.
Ten Writing Prompts for People Experiencing Divorce 2013 Writing can help you deal with your divorce, as well as help you get a grip on your emotions and feelings. This book provides not only a space for you to write, but also, it provides writing prompts to help you get your writing juices flowing.
cassandrahawkinswilson.weebly.com/
Life and Struggles is a collection of poetry, which exposes true emotions and experiences. Enveloping you in situations and feelings familiar to your own life, Life and Struggles begs you to forgive, forget, and enjoy what life has brought your way.
Ten Writing Prompts for People Experiencing Divorce 2013 Writing can help you deal with your divorce, as well as help you get a grip on your emotions and feelings. This book provides not only a space for you to write, but also, it provides writing prompts to help you get your writing juices flowing.
cassandrahawkinswilson.weebly.com/
Paul Henderson
James Paul Henderson, Jr, known by most as Paul, was born in Shaw, Mississippi. He went to school in Belzoni and Greenwood.
He is a Vietnam veteran, a member of Liberty Baptist Church in Jefferson, and has 5 children, 12 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren.
An avid Ole Miss fan and lover of his native state of Mississippi, he is the author of Quiver River, the story of a ten-year-old boy growing up in the 1950’s on his Granddaddy’s sharecropping cotton farm near Schlater, Mississippi; and Dack and the Wooly Booger, a whimsical story of a small boy who gets lost in the woods and the Wooly Booger who helps him find his way home.
Thomas Herrington
From his website:
“I am Thomas Herrington and I like to write, sing and take photos. Actually, I like to do about anything, but those are the main three. I live in Mississippi and try to reach out to people through what I write. Above all, I am a Christian — that doesn’t mean I am perfect, but it does mean I follow One who is.”
http://onthejourney.us/
Jody Hill
JODY HILL was born in Falkner, Mississippi and is the New York Times Best Selling author of 38: The Chucky Mullins Effect. In the fall of 1988, he became friends with Chucky Mullins when they were freshmen on the Ole Miss Rebels football team. He became a 1992 graduate of the University of Mississippi. In 2000, Jody earned a Master of Divinity degree from the Memphis Theological Seminary and was ordained into Christian ministry by the Cumberland Presbyterian Church of Memphis, Tennessee. He is the pastor of Ripley Presbyterian Church in Ripley, Mississippi. Jody lives in Corinth, Mississippi, with his wife, Monya, and two sons, Noah and Luke.
www.RevJodyHill.com
J. B. Jones
J.B. Jones, better known to friends and family as Cindy, developed an interest in genealogy a few years ago which led her to research and collect information about her family. Her research ignited her passion for writing and the desire to tell the untold stories of her family including posting devotionals and sermons on her blog, thegrandword.blogspot.com. Cindy’s first book, Suffering for Victory, is the story of her great-grandparents.
Cindy is a graduate of Senatobia High School, Union University, and the University of Mississippi. After 15 years as a School Counselor in Desoto and Tate Counties, Cindy decided to take some time off to pursue her dream of becoming an author. She resides in North Mississippi with her husband and daughter.
Kim Katt
I am the proud wife of a retired Marine and we have 2 boys, Preston and Brandon - which happen to be two of the names of main characters in my book. A TREASURED SUMMER •••Circumstances take the boys and their families overseas where they meet a military family. This sparks coming of age crushes, the test of true friendship and the adventure of a lifetime! •••
While the places in the book are real, the adventure is pure fiction and was originally intended for my kids.
Ron Kattawar
Writer Ron Kattawar has published four books, the first two, “Cornbread Memories” (1&2) followed by “27 Break” and “The Autograph.”
Ron doesn't stray far from his Mississippi Delta upbringing, utilizing the Southern charm and colorful characters of the fertile South.
After a successful and rewarding career with a major airline Ron opted for an early-out to pursue his lifetime passion of writing full time.
After traveling the world in his airline career, Ron and his wife have settled in Southaven Mississippi, not far from his hometown of Greenville. They have three adult children and five grandchildren. Their daughter, Kim Kattawar Mahfouz, is also an accomplished writer.
In his first two books, Ron focuses on growing up in the Mississippi Delta, recounting the trials and often the tribulations of a Delta youth. Book One of Cornbread Memories was so popular Book Two followed.
“27 Break” is anchored in a Greenville murder so vile, so despicable that when locals speak of it, they whisper. The fictional Delta who-done-it feels as though it was ripped from yesterday’s headlines.
“The Autograph” follows a mild and meek housekeeper that transforms into a dynamo becoming the voice of Major League Baseball. Her story of merging from the shadows into a powerhouse position speaks to strength when pressed against insurmountable odds and what one woman can accomplish.
High goals have been set. Ron plans to publish one novel a month for the year of 2015. “27 Break” started off the year as a popular read. “The Autograph” is slated for February 27th release. “The Strength of Goliath” is planned for March 27.
While the twelve in twelve as Ron calls it is an ambitious goal, it suits his prolific and aggressive writing style. He says he thrives on deadlines and improbable challenges.
Join Ron on his Facebook page, Cornbread Memories.
Ron doesn't stray far from his Mississippi Delta upbringing, utilizing the Southern charm and colorful characters of the fertile South.
After a successful and rewarding career with a major airline Ron opted for an early-out to pursue his lifetime passion of writing full time.
After traveling the world in his airline career, Ron and his wife have settled in Southaven Mississippi, not far from his hometown of Greenville. They have three adult children and five grandchildren. Their daughter, Kim Kattawar Mahfouz, is also an accomplished writer.
In his first two books, Ron focuses on growing up in the Mississippi Delta, recounting the trials and often the tribulations of a Delta youth. Book One of Cornbread Memories was so popular Book Two followed.
“27 Break” is anchored in a Greenville murder so vile, so despicable that when locals speak of it, they whisper. The fictional Delta who-done-it feels as though it was ripped from yesterday’s headlines.
“The Autograph” follows a mild and meek housekeeper that transforms into a dynamo becoming the voice of Major League Baseball. Her story of merging from the shadows into a powerhouse position speaks to strength when pressed against insurmountable odds and what one woman can accomplish.
High goals have been set. Ron plans to publish one novel a month for the year of 2015. “27 Break” started off the year as a popular read. “The Autograph” is slated for February 27th release. “The Strength of Goliath” is planned for March 27.
While the twelve in twelve as Ron calls it is an ambitious goal, it suits his prolific and aggressive writing style. He says he thrives on deadlines and improbable challenges.
Join Ron on his Facebook page, Cornbread Memories.
Margaret & Katherine King
Katherine King graduated from Ole Miss in 1970 with a Bachelor of Arts in Secondary Education with an emphasis in mathematics. She followed that up with a Master’s of Education in 1971 in Guidance and Counseling and Master’s of Science in Mathematics in 1986 from Ole Miss as well. She has been named Star Teacher twice and in 2005 received the Headwae Educator of the Year Award, recognizing her as the outstanding teacher at Northwest Community College. In 2008 Katherine was named the Lamplighter Educator of the Year from NWCC. She is currently an Instructor of Mathematics at the Oxford Campus of NWCC.
Margaret King graduated form Ole Miss in 1971 with a Bachelor of Arts in Education with an emphasis in history. In 1973 she started her stint with the federal government as a courtroom clerk with U. S. District Judge Orma R. Smith. After nine years she transitioned to Farmers Home Administration/Rural Development. While working with Rural Development she twice received the highest honor given to a government employee—The Distinguished Service Award. She also received The Department of Army Commander’s Award for Public Service, the highest civilian award given by the military. She is currently semi-retired and works part time at Oxford University Bank.
Both authors find community service important. They belong to the Oxford Exchange Club where Margaret has served as President and eleven years as secretary. Margaret is also a Board Member of the Exchange Club Family Center and Interfaith Compassion Fund. She is a former board member of the Boys and Girls Club. Both contribute to Backpacks for the Homeless, a program that Margaret started in the Oxford area. Katherine began Santa Cause two years ago at NWCC whereby faculty and staff identify students and donate gifts for their children for Christmas morning. They are both members of The Oxford University United Methodist Church.
www.yalltwins.com
Margaret King graduated form Ole Miss in 1971 with a Bachelor of Arts in Education with an emphasis in history. In 1973 she started her stint with the federal government as a courtroom clerk with U. S. District Judge Orma R. Smith. After nine years she transitioned to Farmers Home Administration/Rural Development. While working with Rural Development she twice received the highest honor given to a government employee—The Distinguished Service Award. She also received The Department of Army Commander’s Award for Public Service, the highest civilian award given by the military. She is currently semi-retired and works part time at Oxford University Bank.
Both authors find community service important. They belong to the Oxford Exchange Club where Margaret has served as President and eleven years as secretary. Margaret is also a Board Member of the Exchange Club Family Center and Interfaith Compassion Fund. She is a former board member of the Boys and Girls Club. Both contribute to Backpacks for the Homeless, a program that Margaret started in the Oxford area. Katherine began Santa Cause two years ago at NWCC whereby faculty and staff identify students and donate gifts for their children for Christmas morning. They are both members of The Oxford University United Methodist Church.
www.yalltwins.com
Writing humor comes naturally for me. I'm married to a man who has no filter between what goes through his head and comes out his mouth, and I share my life with enough cats that CBS wants to set up camp in my home for a feline spin-off of Big Brother. I suggested they call it Big BroFur. And so my books have quirky characters put in off-the-wall situations, most of which I've lived through. My romantic comedy, Southern Exposure, was easy to write. I worked with all of the characters, including the pig. Look for its re-release in February.
Currently twinkling with 5-Star reviews is Finding Mya, a children's story starring my rock star cat, Herman aka @TattleCat on Twitter. It's a quirky tale of a kitten searching for Happily Ever After with a little girl who can speak to him ~ not with words, but with tickle thoughts. I'm proud of how this book has touched so many people. The best part for me is hearing adults confess that they so loved the story, they read it out loud to their pets. A percentage of sales is donated to No Kill Shelters in the towns where Herman and I travel to for book signings.
www.kimberleykoz.com
Kyla Latrice
Kyla Latrice, MBA, Executive Education at Harvard and Stanford, has been an entrepreneur for over a decade and has successfully launched over 26 corporations (including in literature and restaurants) and 13 global offices; a one-stop shop enterprise (Lady Mirage Global) for all things business. During her years of success she faced hardship, including domestic violence and obesity, both twice.
She has launched several books regarding nutrition and has been speaking about it globally. Her first candy business and slushie business was at the age of 8, first Health Foods Restaurant job at the renowned The Good Earth, at age 15 and first business at 21. Her books, nutrition tips, workout program(s) and workout workbook manual as well as Global 21 Day Challenge T-Shirts are sold all over the world, with recent buzz and purchases in Romania, Finland, Portugal, The University of Hong Kong, MIT University, Japan, The University of London UK, Toronto Canada, Harvard University, Stanford, South Africa, Bangkok Thailand, Switzerland and more. To learn more get in touch or visit: www.LadyMirageAgency.com
Shane Louwerens
“So many people have asked me how it happened,” said Louwerens. “People were interested in the tractor and its history. They would ask, ‘How did you get this amazing opportunity? How did you do it? What was your favorite part?’ So, I decided to put it all in writing for everyone to enjoy and for the college and the students to have something they could always remember the experience through.”
The book took over two years to finish, including writing, proofing, getting approval through the legal channels at two of the largest corporations worldwide, John Deere and Elvis Presley Enterprises, re-writing and publishing. “I shelved the project several times along the way, but I wanted the people I worked with at Northwest, my family and students to see the importance of seeing something out to the very end,” said Louwerens.
[email protected]
Chad Martin
Laurel Rose Publishing was founded in December of 2012 by Chad Martin and Mike Cockrell as a means to give would-be authors a way to get their books published, especially in these economically challenging times. Thanks in large part to the advent of Kindle and various other electronic book readers, getting published is now easier than ever. So what Chad and Mike have done is simplify the process even more, allowing the author to concentrate on writing while they take care of the editing and publishing.
Chad R Martin published his first book in November of 2012 entitled Hale County: Book 1 – The Asylum. He also co-authored a book with his daughters, Katie and Ariana Martin, called Our Family. Since then he has helped other authors realize their dream of being published.
[email protected]
When I was three years old, I picked up this thing that was lying on the floor. I opened it, and it had these squiggly lines underneath these pictures. Somehow I knew, I just knew, that those squiggly lines explained what was happening in the pictures. I thought the pictures were beautiful, but it was the lines beneath the pictures that fascinated me and captured my attention. I went to my mom and begged her to connect the images and words for me. She explained to me the concept of reading, taught me to read, and in the process, opened up a multitude of worlds for me. From that moment on, words became the guiding force of my life. I breathe, eat, drink, dream words. Reading or writing—doesn’t matter which one. Words are my soul’s passion. I taught in the public school system for sixteen years, because it was always my first dream. But though teaching is my love, writing is my passion; so I decided to let teaching go to take a chance on my real joy.
I have written and self-published two books. The first is a book of poetry called Mindgasms. It is a book of 100 poems about relationships—the romance, the sensual, the sexual…and even the heartbreak and soul-ache that sometimes comes with letting yourself love. I called it Mindgasms because the true art of making love first starts with the mind. I wrote my first poem when I was eight years old. Though I love all forms of writing, it is poetry that sings to my soul, poetry that calls to my spirit, poetry that seduces my pen.
The second book I’ve written is a murder mystery called Death at Storytime, a story that revolves around Detective Faericia Horton’s bullheaded resolve to catch the serial killer responsible for the murder of her best friend. As she helps the FBI search for the killer, more and more puzzling questions arise. And even after the serial killer is found, one question still haunts Faeri. Is he the real killer? In this story, Detective Faericia Horton searches for her friend’s killer, struggles to remain strong in the midst of personal tragedies, all while unwittingly learning how to fall in love. This is her story as she asks questions and finds answers, as she pushes buttons to get results, as she makes others dig deeper to find the solutions they might not be looking for. And when she finally finds the killer, she will finally have the strength to grieve.
I am now working on the sequel to Death at Storytime, called Hush, Little Baby, a young adult spiritual/sci-fi series called HORIZONS, a fantasy series called The Draegyn Chronicles, and a romance series about a group of girlfriends finding love and building relationships, called DIVAS, Inc. The first book in that series is based on the very first sensual poem I ever wrote, Share My Chocolate. I am also working on my next two poetry compilations.
FaeriTaeles.com
I have written and self-published two books. The first is a book of poetry called Mindgasms. It is a book of 100 poems about relationships—the romance, the sensual, the sexual…and even the heartbreak and soul-ache that sometimes comes with letting yourself love. I called it Mindgasms because the true art of making love first starts with the mind. I wrote my first poem when I was eight years old. Though I love all forms of writing, it is poetry that sings to my soul, poetry that calls to my spirit, poetry that seduces my pen.
The second book I’ve written is a murder mystery called Death at Storytime, a story that revolves around Detective Faericia Horton’s bullheaded resolve to catch the serial killer responsible for the murder of her best friend. As she helps the FBI search for the killer, more and more puzzling questions arise. And even after the serial killer is found, one question still haunts Faeri. Is he the real killer? In this story, Detective Faericia Horton searches for her friend’s killer, struggles to remain strong in the midst of personal tragedies, all while unwittingly learning how to fall in love. This is her story as she asks questions and finds answers, as she pushes buttons to get results, as she makes others dig deeper to find the solutions they might not be looking for. And when she finally finds the killer, she will finally have the strength to grieve.
I am now working on the sequel to Death at Storytime, called Hush, Little Baby, a young adult spiritual/sci-fi series called HORIZONS, a fantasy series called The Draegyn Chronicles, and a romance series about a group of girlfriends finding love and building relationships, called DIVAS, Inc. The first book in that series is based on the very first sensual poem I ever wrote, Share My Chocolate. I am also working on my next two poetry compilations.
FaeriTaeles.com
Carl Purdon
Carl Purdon lives in Pontotoc, Mississippi with his wife and two of their four children. Born in 1964, he knew by age five he would write novels someday. He prepared himself by reading a wide variety of books, and by falling down a few times. His passion is observing people. His goal is to create characters so real his readers will feel they know them by the end of the book. In February of 2012, he released his debut novel, The Night Train, then followed it up with his second novel, Norton Road in 2013. In 2014, he released Blinders. His fourth novel, Red Eyes, a sequel to The Night Train, is scheduled for release on March 23, 2015.
Norton Road was selected as a Notable Indie by Shelf Unbound magazine as part of their 2014 Best Indie Book Awards.
Carl writes in the contemporary fiction genre, with emphasis on true-to-life drama and suspense. During an introduction at a reading roundtable in 2014, Carl's writing style was described as a mixture of Mark Twain and Merle Haggard, a compliment he continuously strives to live up to.
http://www.carlpurdon.com
Norton Road was selected as a Notable Indie by Shelf Unbound magazine as part of their 2014 Best Indie Book Awards.
Carl writes in the contemporary fiction genre, with emphasis on true-to-life drama and suspense. During an introduction at a reading roundtable in 2014, Carl's writing style was described as a mixture of Mark Twain and Merle Haggard, a compliment he continuously strives to live up to.
http://www.carlpurdon.com
James E. Smith
James E. Smith grew up, beginning in the 1940's in Jefferson County, Mississippi. He spent his early years listening attentively to stories from his parents and grandparents. Everyone can learn from the simple life he and his relatives once lived. While the author mainly wrote this book to preserve his family history for his grandchildren and other family members, it also is meant to inform lovers of history and those seeking to learn lessons from the past.
Learn about: What life was like growing up on a farm; Eating traditions; How people dressed in the 1950's; Social gatherings of the past; Life on the home front during World War II; And much more! Step back in time to a different era, and along the way, discover the beauty of life the way it used to be and what it meant to grow up on a farm. Find ways to achieve happiness every single day with A Grandfather's Gift.
[email protected]
James Earl Smith
James was born in Coldwater, Mississippi on March 30, 1949. He is the fourth of twelve siblings born to Robert and Lula Smith. He attended Tate County high school and graduated with honors in May of 1967. Later, he attended Northwest Mississippi Community College and graduated May 1994 with a General Education degree. James is married to Gloria Jean Garrett, his high school sweetheart. They married the next day after graduating from high school. He is a retired factory worker, father, Sunday school teacher and deacon, Sunday school superintendent, and Bible puzzle maker.
James is an author, poet, and play writer. He was inspired to write upon receiving a love letter from a girl who had a crush on him in middle school. He was afraid to approach her face to face because he was timid so he never wrote back. However, he received another letter from her and it was mean. Later, James learned to write love letters and wrote letters for some of his buddies to give to girls they liked. Writing love letters ignited an interest in writing for James. He went on to write books, poetry, and plays. James has written eight books, one, a book of plays and seven that are a series of poetry. He has eight books published by Laurel Rose Publishing which are Reaching For the Horizons, Wisdom at the Foot of the Mountain, Treasures of the Heart, Stepping Forward, My Plays (Everyone Should Smile Every Now and Then), Searching for the Eagle's Whereabouts, Stalking the Eagle, and Cherishing the Dream. All of these can be purchased on Laurel Rose Publishing website and Amazon.com.
James also has a membership with the International Society of Poets, and the American Numismatist Association. He has received several awards for his writings such as the Silver Poet Award (1986 and 1990), the Golden Poet Award (1985), and also two accomplishments of merit awards from Creative Arts and Science Enterprises for his poems: Eternal Wind and Hope under Pressure. He has portions of his work listed in the National Library of Poetry, Amherst Society, American Poetry Association, J. M. W. Publishing Co., Quill Books, Yes Press, Sparrowgrass Poetry Forum, Poetry International, Fine Arts Poetry Forum, Wide Open Magazine, and the Tate County Democrat. James is currently working on writing religious literature.
[email protected]
James is an author, poet, and play writer. He was inspired to write upon receiving a love letter from a girl who had a crush on him in middle school. He was afraid to approach her face to face because he was timid so he never wrote back. However, he received another letter from her and it was mean. Later, James learned to write love letters and wrote letters for some of his buddies to give to girls they liked. Writing love letters ignited an interest in writing for James. He went on to write books, poetry, and plays. James has written eight books, one, a book of plays and seven that are a series of poetry. He has eight books published by Laurel Rose Publishing which are Reaching For the Horizons, Wisdom at the Foot of the Mountain, Treasures of the Heart, Stepping Forward, My Plays (Everyone Should Smile Every Now and Then), Searching for the Eagle's Whereabouts, Stalking the Eagle, and Cherishing the Dream. All of these can be purchased on Laurel Rose Publishing website and Amazon.com.
James also has a membership with the International Society of Poets, and the American Numismatist Association. He has received several awards for his writings such as the Silver Poet Award (1986 and 1990), the Golden Poet Award (1985), and also two accomplishments of merit awards from Creative Arts and Science Enterprises for his poems: Eternal Wind and Hope under Pressure. He has portions of his work listed in the National Library of Poetry, Amherst Society, American Poetry Association, J. M. W. Publishing Co., Quill Books, Yes Press, Sparrowgrass Poetry Forum, Poetry International, Fine Arts Poetry Forum, Wide Open Magazine, and the Tate County Democrat. James is currently working on writing religious literature.
[email protected]
Shirley Rena Smith
Growing up as a child, I had only two siblings but my parents reared ten other children who
were my cousins and we were all like sisters and brothers. All of them with the exception of two were older than me. I was the oldest girl and; since, I had a lot of little youngsters under me running around in the house; I thought I was grown. I always tried to play the role of big sister, mother, and teacher. While growing up I had this deep yearning to become a teacher but a writer as well. I knew I could do both. After high school I would go to college and major in journalism. However, I got steered away from my dreams. I entered a business school and decided to major in a Secretarial Word Processing course. However, I didn’t find business too appealing. I disliked the idea of sitting cooped up all day in somebody’s office answering the phone, pouring coffee, and acting like a go-to-girl. So, I easily dismissed that career.
Well, I maneuvered my way back into the idea of becoming a teacher. I went off to Texas to earn my teachers degree. I graduated from a two-year college there and returned home and worked as a teacher’s assistant in my hometown for about 10 years. I loved my job because it was working with children and I got an opportunity to student-teach. Of course, I easily tired of that position because I wanted to be the teacher and I wasn’t receiving a teacher’s salary. I eventually left that field.
Again, I got a little off track through working different little odds and end jobs here and there; but, I wasn’t satisfied. I was still yearning to teach. So, I put everything aside and decided to return back to school to finish my teaching degree. Well, I finally succeeded. I graduated from the University of Mississippi with a teaching degree in Elementary Education. I was elated because one milestone was accomplished.
I went on to teach head start for about two years; I enjoyed working with the children, but, I felt something was still missing. I knew there was something else for me. I began to wonder if teaching was my true talent. In the meantime while grappling with trying to figure it all out, some unfortunate circumstances arose in my family and I had to resign from head start.
My heart was torn in two because I was leaving my job and my mom became ill. Too, I was having to deal with some health issues myself; but, I got better and decided to return home to care for my mom. I was hurting and I didn’t want to accept my mom’s illness but I had to get a grip and come to terms with that. I allowed God to heal me and do His thing, then, I was okay.
I remember having a conversation with God and I asked Him to give me something to do so I could work from home because I was now JOB-LESS. That’s a word nobody wants to hear. So, God answered my prayers. I sat at home, one day, and I created the story ‘Don’t Color on the Wall’ and ‘Chloe’ the little character in my book.
Writing and drawing was an answer to a prayer. I am excited and thankful. I’ve heard this saying, “when God shows up that He shows out”. Nobody can bless you like God can and I am living proof that He blesses you big. Don’t Color on the Wall is now a published book and also I have a second book on the market Dad Made a Mess. I plan to continue writing children’s books and I’m currently working with the ‘Growing with Chloe’ series on a third book. I think this book will be the highlight of my career.
http://shirleyrenasmith.com/
were my cousins and we were all like sisters and brothers. All of them with the exception of two were older than me. I was the oldest girl and; since, I had a lot of little youngsters under me running around in the house; I thought I was grown. I always tried to play the role of big sister, mother, and teacher. While growing up I had this deep yearning to become a teacher but a writer as well. I knew I could do both. After high school I would go to college and major in journalism. However, I got steered away from my dreams. I entered a business school and decided to major in a Secretarial Word Processing course. However, I didn’t find business too appealing. I disliked the idea of sitting cooped up all day in somebody’s office answering the phone, pouring coffee, and acting like a go-to-girl. So, I easily dismissed that career.
Well, I maneuvered my way back into the idea of becoming a teacher. I went off to Texas to earn my teachers degree. I graduated from a two-year college there and returned home and worked as a teacher’s assistant in my hometown for about 10 years. I loved my job because it was working with children and I got an opportunity to student-teach. Of course, I easily tired of that position because I wanted to be the teacher and I wasn’t receiving a teacher’s salary. I eventually left that field.
Again, I got a little off track through working different little odds and end jobs here and there; but, I wasn’t satisfied. I was still yearning to teach. So, I put everything aside and decided to return back to school to finish my teaching degree. Well, I finally succeeded. I graduated from the University of Mississippi with a teaching degree in Elementary Education. I was elated because one milestone was accomplished.
I went on to teach head start for about two years; I enjoyed working with the children, but, I felt something was still missing. I knew there was something else for me. I began to wonder if teaching was my true talent. In the meantime while grappling with trying to figure it all out, some unfortunate circumstances arose in my family and I had to resign from head start.
My heart was torn in two because I was leaving my job and my mom became ill. Too, I was having to deal with some health issues myself; but, I got better and decided to return home to care for my mom. I was hurting and I didn’t want to accept my mom’s illness but I had to get a grip and come to terms with that. I allowed God to heal me and do His thing, then, I was okay.
I remember having a conversation with God and I asked Him to give me something to do so I could work from home because I was now JOB-LESS. That’s a word nobody wants to hear. So, God answered my prayers. I sat at home, one day, and I created the story ‘Don’t Color on the Wall’ and ‘Chloe’ the little character in my book.
Writing and drawing was an answer to a prayer. I am excited and thankful. I’ve heard this saying, “when God shows up that He shows out”. Nobody can bless you like God can and I am living proof that He blesses you big. Don’t Color on the Wall is now a published book and also I have a second book on the market Dad Made a Mess. I plan to continue writing children’s books and I’m currently working with the ‘Growing with Chloe’ series on a third book. I think this book will be the highlight of my career.
http://shirleyrenasmith.com/
Linda Bullion Trusty
Linda Bullion Trusty has been writing since she was a young child. Her first book was published in 2004 followed by three other books. Cherished Memories, her new book was released in November 2014. Linda was an elementary educator for thirty-six years. She loved teaching reading and writing to her students.
Linda is a graduate from the University of Mississippi in Oxford, Mississippi. She holds three teaching certificates--Texas, Oklahoma, and Mississippi. She holds a reading certification for grades K-12 and was a reading interventionist her last eight years of teaching. She has been a breast cancer survivor for twenty years. She has been the keynote speaker for many cancer events. Linda was also published in the magazine Health and You as a cancer survivor.
http://lindatrusty.tateauthor.com/
Margaret Tutor
Margaret Tutor was born and raised in Morrilton, Arkansas. She now calls Olive Branch, Mississippi her home. Raised by a single mother who raised seven children, Margaret finds her inspiration from her mother's determination to keep her family together.
Margaret writes in a style which is both light-hearted and fun but with serious undertones.
In her new historical novel, Just Passing Through, author Margaret Tutor shares a story of changed lives and healed hearts.
The story introduces readers to the Ward family, who traveled from cotton field to cotton field, living out of their covered wagon until they became sharecroppers in Dover, Ark., in 1926. There, they encountered Mrs. Cartwright and her children, who were left to fend for themselves while Mr. Cartwright took an extended trip to New Orleans. The Wards took the Cartwrights under their wings, angering Mr. Cartwright when he returned to see them thriving without him.
Walter Cartwright was a cruel-hearted man, whose sons, Robert and Clanton, never knew any other way of living but their father’s way. Will their father’s abandonment and the kindness of the Wards help them see the world as decent and good? Tutor offers this tale of changed and healed lives and hearts in her new novel, “Just Passing Through.”
Published by Tate Publishing and Enterprises, the book is available through bookstores nationwide, from the publisher at www.tatepublishing.com/bookstore, or by visiting barnesandnoble.com or amazon.com.
http://margarettutor.wix.com/margaret-tutor
Margaret writes in a style which is both light-hearted and fun but with serious undertones.
In her new historical novel, Just Passing Through, author Margaret Tutor shares a story of changed lives and healed hearts.
The story introduces readers to the Ward family, who traveled from cotton field to cotton field, living out of their covered wagon until they became sharecroppers in Dover, Ark., in 1926. There, they encountered Mrs. Cartwright and her children, who were left to fend for themselves while Mr. Cartwright took an extended trip to New Orleans. The Wards took the Cartwrights under their wings, angering Mr. Cartwright when he returned to see them thriving without him.
Walter Cartwright was a cruel-hearted man, whose sons, Robert and Clanton, never knew any other way of living but their father’s way. Will their father’s abandonment and the kindness of the Wards help them see the world as decent and good? Tutor offers this tale of changed and healed lives and hearts in her new novel, “Just Passing Through.”
Published by Tate Publishing and Enterprises, the book is available through bookstores nationwide, from the publisher at www.tatepublishing.com/bookstore, or by visiting barnesandnoble.com or amazon.com.
http://margarettutor.wix.com/margaret-tutor
Nancy Millikin Tubbs
Nancy Millikin Tubbs is the author of several books, including The Invisible Bridge, a book written following the death of her husband; Unconditional Grace, a book of prayers; Hummingbird Inn, an historical romance and mystery novel; The Key of Nostradamus, about, you guessed it, the key of Nostradamus; Rustic Breads and Spreads, a cookbook, and Fresh and Crispy: Journal of an Italian Walking Tour, a humorous look at her first trip abroad. She lives in Mississippi with her mother, helps out when she can with the local Humane Society, and spends her days gardening, cooking and reading. When she can get away with it.
You can contact Nancy at [email protected].
Anna Le Doux Woody
"Imagine finding a tool of creativity that could change how you envision your future success. Creativity when unlocked can be used as the empowerment you need to form your new habits for success.
So what is this new tool that will unlock the best of who I am?
This self-help book will teach you how to open your creativity through the writing of haiku. The author has had over 14 years experience in the writing, use, and keeping of haiku. Creativity opened with haiku is clearly explained step-by-step to support the new haikuist. Open your innate creativity without the need for hours of practicing art skills or the wait to purchase expensive equipment. Memories, desires, observations, inspirations and affirmations can be concisely kept in haiku to empower your vision of your life.
The author, Anna Le Doux-Woody has been a registered nurse since 1979 and is a nurse educator. She has seen how negative personal perceptions can influence an individual to keep making the same unsuccessful decisions on a consistent basis. Using creativity through the simple writing of haiku can open up new perceptions and assist in the formation of new habits supportive of personal success. Now you can be creative. Now what you feel and experience is important, since only you can write it down concisely in haiku. The whole point of writing concisely about your experiences is to bring your life into focus. You will then know where you are going, since you know where you have been. You will be making new habits through forming new perceptions of success about your life.
It starts with the writing of one haiku at a time!" Bio & Description from author's page on Amazon.com.
[email protected]
So what is this new tool that will unlock the best of who I am?
This self-help book will teach you how to open your creativity through the writing of haiku. The author has had over 14 years experience in the writing, use, and keeping of haiku. Creativity opened with haiku is clearly explained step-by-step to support the new haikuist. Open your innate creativity without the need for hours of practicing art skills or the wait to purchase expensive equipment. Memories, desires, observations, inspirations and affirmations can be concisely kept in haiku to empower your vision of your life.
The author, Anna Le Doux-Woody has been a registered nurse since 1979 and is a nurse educator. She has seen how negative personal perceptions can influence an individual to keep making the same unsuccessful decisions on a consistent basis. Using creativity through the simple writing of haiku can open up new perceptions and assist in the formation of new habits supportive of personal success. Now you can be creative. Now what you feel and experience is important, since only you can write it down concisely in haiku. The whole point of writing concisely about your experiences is to bring your life into focus. You will then know where you are going, since you know where you have been. You will be making new habits through forming new perceptions of success about your life.
It starts with the writing of one haiku at a time!" Bio & Description from author's page on Amazon.com.
[email protected]
