Hello everyone! Welcome to another Author Spotlight! These spotlights are for showcasing author’s (predominantly women and people of color) writing talents and published works. So without further ado let’s get on with the Author Spotlight!
About the Author:
Kenesma John was born in St. Thomas U.S.V.I. and descended from a Lucian mother and an Anguillan father. She was raised in Houston, Texas, and moved to Florida one year before starting her Ph.D. journey. She is an experienced Teacher with a demonstrated history of working in the primary education industry.
She is currently a graduate student at the University of Florida with scholarly interests in Black Immigrants, Black Feminist Thought, and Culturally Responsive Teaching/Learning. Before starting the graduate program, Kenesma self-published her first children’s book, The Newest Addition: A Tale of Siblings, which is available on Amazon in English, Spanish, and French.
What and when started your love for writing?
I always loved writing since a young age. I started with a diary, then I was making magazines to sell at school for a quarter, that business didn’t go far. Then I got into writing poetry for a little bit. I think I loved my writing more when I understood how to be a better writer after taking writing courses in college.
Of all of the book genres, what drew you to write about yours?
I decided to write a children’s book because I was an elementary school teacher for seven years. I used to read books to my kids and always thought, I could write one of these.
If you could meet your favorite author who would it be and why?
I would like to meet Mildred D. Taylor. Her book Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry was my first introduction to a Black female writer’s novel. I would love to hear her process when writing her books.
What makes your book(s)/writing special?
My books/writing are special because it has part of me in them. My writings are based on my life experiences and it has been a great way to get feelings down on paper.
So…what are you working on now?
I am working on a chapter book about the journey of getting to love your natural God-given hair.
Kenesma was a great author to get to know and learn about! And congrats on your future book release! If you want to get in contact or connect with Kenesma you can follow her on:
Thank you all for reading and remember:
