Hello everyone! Welcome to another author spotlight! These will be posts where I discuss and showcase, predominantly women and people of color, their writing talents and published works. So without further ado let’s get on with the Author Spotlight!
Meet the Author!
LaShone L. Grimes is a native of Savannah, Ga. She attended Armstrong State University and received a Bachelor of Science in Early Elementary Education. After teaching in the Chatham County Public School System for seven years, she also received a Masters in Public Administration Degree from Savannah State University.
Additionally, she is passionate about building self-esteem and courage in girls/women each day of her life. She is the author of a new empowerment book entitled More Than a Pretty Face. It ignites a passion within to dream big and gives insight on maintaining self-confidence.
What and when started your love for writing?
My love for writing started in 9th grade with Mrs. Fox. She was my English teacher at St. Vincent’s Academy in Savannah, Ga. Mrs. Fox challenged us daily to write with accuracy and precision. Many times in her class we were given the tasks to write research papers and short stories. She would diligently critique my work and give honest feedback that continually sparked a desire to get better each day.
Additionally, my mother also helped me develop a love for writing. She is a retired educator of 30 years and her passion for writing spilled over into my life during middle school. My mother would always encourage me to write from my heart, plan a writing strategy, create a quiet place to gather your thoughts and let it FLOW!
Of all of the book genres, what drew you to write about yours?
The essence of helping others is my sincere passion and drive. My desire to create books for the self – help genre is definitely a deep love of mine. I enjoy equipping and empowering women to reach new levels of success. My self – help books are essential tools in elevating the minds of women to realize that they are created for greatness and designed for a special purpose. My written works of art are uniquely designed to challenge women to transform their mindsets to accomplish more in life.
If you could meet your favorite author who would it be and why?
My favorite author is Toni Morrison. She was noted for her examination of the black experience (particularly the black female experience) within the African American community. Living in an unjust society, her characters struggle to find themselves and their cultural identity. Her use of fantasy, poetic style and rich interweaving of the mythic gave her stories great strength/ texture.
How has being a woman impacted your writing?
Toni Morrison eloquently shares with us that “writing is really a way of thinking – not just feeling but thinking about things that are disparate, unresolved, mysterious, problematic or just sweet”.
As I reflect on her quote of inspiration for writers, realization settles in my mindset that my writing as a woman will transform lives. As a writer, my motive is to always spark deep reflection within individuals to evaluate their current state and move forward with purpose. I want to always create interesting literary works that help individuals regain belief in themselves.
What makes your book(s) special?
My written works of art are special because they give individuals a sense of hope, encouragement, and empowerment. I enjoy sharing my personal stories and experiences in my books. Readers can connect with me as a writer, gain insight on valuable topics, and reclaim their purpose by delving into my literary works. I thank God daily for the beautiful gift of writing.
So…what are you working on now?
I am working on an exciting project that will captivate the hearts and minds of individuals (women, men, teen girls, and college students). I can’t release the title right now but it will challenge you to recapture the vision that God has placed in your heart. Vision is the source and hope of life. The greatest gift ever given to mankind is not the gift of sight, but the gift of vision. Sight is a function of the eyes; vision is a function of the heart.
LaShone was amazing to interview and work with. And I know she’s just as an amazing author and writer. If you want to get in contact or connect with her you can through:
Thank you all for reading and remember:
