Meet Kendra Jones | Author

We had the good fortune of connecting with Kendra Jones and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kendra, do you have a favorite quote or affirmation?
“Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin.”

I think very often, especially when starting a venture, we put unrealistic expectations on ourselves. Everybody has to start somewhere and for most people it’s not a place of privilege or prestige. If you’re fortunate enough to be naturally gifted at whatever you’ve chosen to do you are fortunate indeed, but even natural gifts have to be cultivated. That takes time and dedication. Venus and Serena Williams weren’t winning Wimbledon six months after they picked up tennis rackets! I’ve had to learn to be gentle with myself and also remember to celebrate every victory, no matter how small it may seem. It’s all moving me toward my ultimate goal of being a successful writer and showrunner.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My book, “The Vicarious Life of Mina Price”, was published in July of 2020. It was definitely a labor of love! I work full-time and finding time and energy to write wasn’t always easy. I’ve written for many years. To be completely honest, there are always several characters living rent free in my head! But a couple of years ago I was inspired by a few dynamic women I’m blessed to call friends to seriously devote more energy to my writing.

With the help of a writing accountability partner and many late nights sitting in the cafe of my local Barnes & Noble, “The Vicarious Life of Mina Price” came to fruition. This isn’t my first completed work, but it is my first published work and will always have a special place in my heart. All told, I believe it took about sixteen months from the time I started writing until it was fully edited and ready for formatting, cover art, etc. And no, the process was not easy! It’s a lot of hard work, especially since I’m self-published.

I know some folks think self-published works don’t have any merit, but that assumption probably means they miss out on some real gems. There are many seriously talented self-published writers! Unfortunately, the traditional publishing world has not thrown it’s arms open and rolled out the welcome mat. And there’s a real need for more ‘black girl/black boy joy’ stories to show our lives are full and diverse, despite the challenges we face as people of color. I hope my work helps fill that gap. And mostly, I hope readers walk away feeling entertained and uplifted.

The most important lesson I’ve learned along the way is you have to be your own cheerleader. You have to recognize your own gifts and abilities, and see your own worth! There’ll be plenty of folks who won’t believe in you. Don’t add yourself to that list. Forgive yourself when you make a mistake (because you will!) and celebrate yourself when you get something right. Be kind to yourself.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I’d probably take my best friend to the Bishop Arts District. I’ve only been there a few times myself, but I’m always seeing (on social media) and hearing from friends about the cool things going on in that area. Since Bishop has so much to offer, from various restaurants to spas/salons and of course shopping, I’m sure a week’s worth of time would fly by. And no itinerary or schedules! We get enough of that with day jobs. Me and my bestie would just wander and see where the day took us.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are so many who have sown into my life and encouraged and cheered me on, but I’d be remiss if I didn’t take time to give credit to my parents, Kenneth, Sr. and Patsy Jones. They have loved and supported me beyond anything I’m able to express in a few words, and I know I wouldn’t be the person I am today if it weren’t for them.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kendrajwrites/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/kendrajwrites

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kendrajwrites/

Other: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B08CWJ4TBQ