Lost in Bentonia

I’ve always known I was a writer. Years ago, I wrote for children’s magazines, but the seed was actually sown long before that. In kindergarten, I wrote and illustrated my first picture book. And now I am delighted to share a bit about my book scheduled to be released in September 2027.

Lost in Bentonia: Stories of Loss, Wandering and Discovery chronicles my physical, emotional and spiritual journeys as I left my life behind in Playa del Rey, California, taking off on an epic road trip for a year following my husband’s death. The interplay of the places I visited, the unique people who befriended me, and serendipitous moments wove a spell of deep healing I didn’t even realize I was craving. From creating art with homeless men and women, to helping run the oldest juke joint in the world, my travels took me throughout the United States, surprisingly settling in rural Mississippi.

 This illustrated memoir and storybook not only gives a unique perspective into my journey through massive loss, change, healing and rebirth, it also elevates the beautiful stories of unsung heroes encountered on my path. Through storytelling, we find the commonalities between us, a powerful way to bring disparate people into union.

These images and audio file are excerpted from my book. I hope you enjoy!

Interested in knowing a bit more about my creative process during this massive time of change? Here’s an interview with creative coach, Jamie Ridler.