Spotlight Author: Loretta "Faith" Harris, M.Ed. Give the Gift of Knowledge Campaign
EDC Creations, The Sankofa Literary
Society and The Black Authors Network announced the launch of their 2009-2010
"Give the Gift of Knowledge Campaign," bringing readers and authors together to
help improve literacy. In 2004, during the Christmas holidays, Ella Curry, the
founder of EDC Creations, reached out to women's groups and literary
organizations to help promote early literacy by giving new books to children
from low income homes.
Today, the "Give the Gift of Knowledge Campaign," seeks
to expand even further! “Based on the “each one teach one,” model, our goal is
to help people introduce reading and new books to their family and friends,”
says CEO and founder of EDC creations, Ella Curry. “Instead of giving expensive
gifts that don't shape lives----let's “Give the Gift of Knowledge” and help to
strengthen our future generations!” We now invite you, the readers, to
join us by supporting the authors below and buying books as gifts!
Each year thousands of people — educators, concerned parents, community leaders,
authors, poets and publishers — devote their time and resources to presenting
the reader with great books! However, too many outstanding books do not get the
attention and reader support that they deserve. It is our mission to connect
readers with these hidden gems and bring them books that will change their
lives.
Each week EDC Creations will sponsor bookclub chats, live readings from authors,
podcast presentations, seminars, community relations discussions, and radio
shows that deliver the best our writers have to offer. All we ask is that the
readers of the world spread the word. Check out the information below and
invite this author to chat with you and 5-10 friends via Skype, tele-conference
or a speaker phone meeting. If you would like to spotlight this author on
your blog, website, magazine or radio show, email Ella Curry at: elladcurry@edc-creations.comIf
you have already read the book, share your reviews with us by clicking here.
Loretta "Fatih" Harris is a prolific speaker, entrepreneur, author, and humanitarian. She is the presiding president and founder of Children's Heart Publishing. This exceptional educator possesses the ability to cultivate the gifts and talents within her young adult scholars. Throughout her teaching career, she endeavored to ignite her own passion for reading in the hearts of her students.
Loretta graduated from the University of Central Florida in the spring of 2003 with a Bachelor of Science degree in elementary education. In addition, this determined educator received a master’s degree in educational leadership, which she earned from Stetson University in 2007.
Loretta is reading endorsed and qualified to teach reading grades K-12. Throughout her teaching career, Loretta endeavored to ignite the same passion for reading in the hearts of her students. Loretta is a recipient of various accolades in the field of education, including Distinguished Minority Educator of the Year.
The Journey Less Traveled Introduction
The Journey Less Traveled: Choose to Turn Your Tragedy into Triumph highlights Loretta's bout with death, grief, depression, anger and countless experiences, which she encountered after her tragic car accident on May 24, 2006. At some point in this life s journey, you will come face to face with tragedy. Enduring the hardship, while holding true to your faith and the promises of God are key components in your victory over any adverse situation. Readers of all ages, cultures, and experiences will relate to one woman s choice to triumph over her tragedy. This book has the potential to transform lives!
At some point during life's journey, you will come face to face with adversity. Enduring the hardship, while holding true to your faith and promises of God, are key components in your victory over these devastating encounters. As a survivor of tragedy, Loretta Harris speaks candidly about her encounter with death, the emotional upheavals, and her struggle to transition back into reality. Readers of all ages, cultures, and experiences will be empowered by one woman's choice to triumph over her tragedy.
(Book info: ISBN-10: 0978668154) Buy
the book today!
Key strategies include:
Seven Steps to Developing a Conqueror's Mentality Face your adversity
Release your frustrations
Seek counsel
Search the scriptures
Develop faith-filled confessions
Recognize lessons learned
Take a stand
BOOK REVIEW
I believe that millions of lives will be impacted after coming in contact with this book. Millions will give their heart to the Lord in confidence, knowing that if He did it for this Woman of God; He can do it for them. --Bishop Edward A. Harris/Overseer First Apostolic Assembly of Pahokee
BOOK REVIEW
As I sat reading THE JOURNEY LESS TRAVELED, the true-life account of author, Loretta "Faith" Harris, I was moved to tears. The character and "faith" that is displayed in her story is truly amazing. She takes us on a rollercoaster journey that moves us from her near death experience, into her recovery and finally to her total victory! However, that's not all; she shares with us how to take our tragedies, turn them into triumphs and inspire others along the way.
I must also note that if her story alone wasn't more than noteworthy in itself, her continued dedication to her commitment as a teacher and educator were awe inspiring.
Make sure to check out her seven steps to developing a conquerors mentality as well.
All I can say is Bravo AND Praise God for this inspiring author AND educator! ---5/5 stars. Reviewed by Jacqueline Moore for the RAWSISTAZ Reviewers
So, how do you pick up the pieces after the winds and waves of life has
apparently knocked you so far to the ground that it seems nearly impossible to
recover? What I am about to say may sound like a cliché, but it’s not. You
are out for the count and there is no HELP in sight!
Tell you what, TRUST GOD!
Ha, “Trust God” she says.
“Where was God when I needed Him the most? How can I trust a God that would
allow such devastation to occur in my life?” I know that some of you may be
feeling like this and you DEMAND answers. Listen to me, because I was there. I
struggled to understand the ways of God. I asked the resounding question,
“Why do bad things happen to good people.” Honestly, after surveying God
and throwing my fist up towards the Heavens, I finally asked myself,
“What’s so good about me?” If this trial did not occur in my life, it
definitely would have occurred in someone else’s life. What makes it wrong
because it happened to me and not the next man?
It’s easy to stand on the
sidelines gazing into the life of that person on the news, but what happens
when it’s your turn to have the “spectators” and “naysayers” hover
over you awaiting your next move. It is during these unexplainable moments my
friend when you MUST trust God. He has already ordained your TRIUMPANT
comeback! He is carrying you through the fight of your life!
You are listening to someone who
the doctors gave up on and left to die. I am the one that they said, “She
won’t make it.” Death came for my soul and I was no match, BUT GOD! He
delivered me and much more than that, brought me back better than before! I am
here to encourage and uplift those who feel like giving up. Please, DO NOT
throw in the towel! God is not finished with you yet! Your moment of TRIUMPH
is sooner than you think!
The
writer of James says it best, “Consider it a sheer gift, friends, when tests
and challenges come at you from all sides. You know that under pressure, your
faith-life is forced into the open and shows its true colors. So do not try to
get out of anything prematurely. Let it do its work so you become mature and
well-developed, not deficient in any way” (James 1:2-4, MSG). So when you
are involved in a head-on collision with misfortune, know that you are
predestined to OVERCOME. It is a fixed fight!
Loretta
"Faith" Harris, M.Ed.
Children’s Heart Publishing, CCR certified
Author of, “The Journey Less Traveled: Choose to Turn Your Tragedy into
Triumph”
Children's Heart Publishing where we are
"capturing the heart of the writer"...™
The
Tragedy and Triumph of the “King of Pop” Michael Jackson
Michael Jackson hailed “King of Pop” in the spotlight since the
tender age of five; the world watched on as he lived a life of stardom and
glamour as well as uphill battles and undoubtedly inside struggles. This Pop
Icon crafted a legacy of his own with over the top record breaking hits, a fan
base surpassing that of his predecessors, and a self proclaimed promise that
he would be the greatest that ever lived. So what finally occurred on his
journey through life that caused his dreams to be short lived? No matter what
we experience in life whether exhilarating or death defying, at the end of the
day there is something that you have to face, yourSELF.
No
one said it better than Michael, “I’m starting with the man in the mirror,
I’m asking him to change his ways.” This song and many more revealed the quest that Jackson and millions of
human beings often embark upon in the middle of life’s journey. The
objective, “Take a look at yourSELF.” Not your neighbor, your boss, your
children, or your parents; we all have to come to a point in our lives’ when
we take an introspective look at who we are and where we’re heading. Once
that inspection is complete it is up to you to, “Make a change.”
Constantly
under the media’s scrutiny, harassed and criticized for who he did not
choose to be, Jackson’s journey through life was anything but stress free!
“I’m going to end up just like Elvis Presley” was his fear, evidence
enough that his demons were lurking, threatening to take him before his time
should have been. Or was it? Was the life of Michael Jackson a sacrifice for
you and I revealing the demons that we disguise and make believe don’t
exist?
In my
memoir, “The Journey Less Traveled: Choose to Turn Your Tragedy into
Triumph” is an interactive journal called, Seven Steps to Developing a
Conquerors Mentality. Step Six: Recognize Lesson Learned, teaches the
reader how to take a tragic situation and embrace the opportunity to learn and
grow from its occurrence. So the “King of Pop” is no longer with us but he
left behind a lifetime of memories. In order to move forward from any tragedy
we have to embrace its reality. Given the opportunity to live your life
differently, think about what you now know and implement how you choose to
live and grow.
I would like to highlight, “Lessons of Tragedy
and Triumph” from the life and death of “The King of Pop” Michael
Jackson:
1.
Always find time to invest in our future generation
2.
Never give a deaf ear to wisdom and advice from your loved ones and trusted
friends
3.
Every chance you get always tell others of your love and appreciation for them
4.
When you see yourself going down the road to destruction humbly shift gears in
an attempt to change your direction
5.
Use your God given skills and talents to inspire the world
6.
Money is power, but becomes a weakness when used to define who you are
7.
Love your mother because you only get one and when time permits give her your
all
8.
Take the time to heal from past hurts and disappointments, because untreated
wounds can lead to an infection
9.
There is a call to greatness in each one of us, but it’s up to you to answer
the call
10.
Whenever life knocks you down, never stop dreaming and attempt to get back up
Life
is our greatest teacher, but I believe that there are some destinations
that could be avoided if we choose to learn from others mistakes.
We don’t have to be strung up in a hospital room with an intravenous tube in
our arm to understand that inhaling a mixture of chemical toxins can cause not
only an altered state of being, but possibly lead to death. Unfortunately,
everyone does not survive tragedy. But as a survivor of any tragic event, you
are given a chance to take your experience, learn and grow, then help someone
else.
Loretta
"Faith" Harris, M.Ed.
Children’s Heart Publishing, CCR certified
Author of, “The Journey Less Traveled: Choose to Turn Your Tragedy into
Triumph”
Children's Heart Publishing where we are
"capturing the heart of the writer"...™
TRANSFORMERS
The ReVeal-a-tion
Director
Michael
Bay
has done it again! “Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen” Ranked
#1 in Top Box Office Hits bringing in over $112M in just one weekend. If
you’ve never been a fan of the Transformer’s action figures or Saturday
morning cartoons, this Sci-Fi Action movie is sure to hold you captivated with
its noteworthy actors, Shia LaBeouf, Megan Fox, and Tyrese Gibson.
The setting is earth and the
Decepticons will stop at nothing to take over the universe! With
their leader Megatron revived from a deep sea nap they insist on retrieving
the missing piece to complete their Power FEAT. Of course the Autobots isn’t
having it and delivers an over the top combat led by the one and only Optimus
Prime. Despite the metal uniforms and heavy weaponry, the Autobots are lost
without their guiding light, Sam. Unbeknownst to Sam, he is the key element in
this entire equation. Though small in stature Sam was predestined as the
“One” to team up with Optimus Prime to take down the infamous Megatron and
the Decepticon tyrants!
Isn’t this just like the human
nature. We doubt and question our ability to CONQUER and OVERCOME life’s
greatest obstacles. Little do we realize that we are destined for VICTORY!
Yes, like Sam You have to dig deep
down inside and pull on generations of greatness. You did not just
arrive at this mission…your forefathers have been fighting this Good Fight
of Faith and it’s not over until You decide to do your part and CONQUER!
I feel this thing…! This word is
seeping into someone’s heart and You finally realize that You are walking
into your DESTINY. What Your ancestors could not do, the fulfillment of
their deferred HOPES and DREAMS is dependent upon Your decision to Act. So Act
Now! Step out on Your intuition and seize the moment to FREE Yourself from
those DOUBTS and FEARS that’s been eating away at your ZEAL…! No time to
wait - it’s time to TRANSFORM into that Man that Woman - You know – That
Vision residing in the depths of your SOUL…it’s calling!
This is TRANSFORMERS The
ReVeal-a-tion!
Loretta
"Faith" Harris, M.Ed.
Children’s Heart Publishing, CCR certified
Author of, “The Journey Less Traveled: Choose to Turn Your Tragedy into
Triumph”
Children's Heart Publishing where we are
"capturing the heart of the writer"...™
Black
Pearls Magazine Interview with Loretta “Faith” Harris
Loretta
“Faith” Harris is a prolific speaker, entrepreneur, author, and
humanitarian. Loretta is the presiding President and Founder of C.H.
Publishing. This exceptional educator possesses the ability to cultivate the
gifts and talents within her young adult scholars. Loretta currently resides
in Orlando, Florida where she is dedicated to the completion of her doctorate
degree in education at Nova Southeastern University.
Q:
Why do you write?
I am an inspirational writer, so most of my writings emerge
from personal experiences, encounters of others, or through divine
inspiration.
Q:
What drives you?
As a survivor of tragedy, the driving force behind my writing
is the hope of inspiring someone that has or will face difficult times.
Whether it’s the lost of a loved one, a health challenge, financial crisis,
or emotional despair, this book is designed to awaken its readers to the
possibility of victory.
Q:
What impact do you want your book to make on the readers?
I want people to
know that there is life after tragedy! I am dedicated to writing inspirational
publications designed to empower, enlighten, and educate my readers.
Q:
Introduce us to your book, The Journey Less Traveled.
The
sole purpose of “The Journey Less Traveled” is to equip readers with the
necessary tools to make the conscious decision to “Turn Tragedy into
Triumph.” When life throws you a hardball, it does not teach you how to
recover from the hit. Survivors of tragedy often struggle with understanding
the, “why me?” question. This memoir takes you through my personal journey
from death to life. From the ICU unit, to rehab, to outpatient therapy,
depression, emotional deprivation, and my eventual triumph; this book offers
readers a transparent look at how I chose to endure the pain that would
ultimately catapult me into my destiny. Readers be prepared to triumph!
Q: How did you start your writing
journey?
As an adolescent, I discovered my fervor for reading and writing. I
would indulge countless hours in my public library reading and writing
miniature plays, poems and short stories. Since that time, I vowed that I
would one day write children’s novels. As a result, C.H. Publishing emerged
in 2006 with the commitment to publish five chapter books that I coauthored
with my six grade students. On May 24, 2006, I met in a tragic car accident
that left me fighting for my life. My most recent memoir, “The Journey Less
Traveled: Choose to Turn Your Tragedy into Triumph” was birthed through my
encounter with death and quest to help others overcome life’s unplanned
obstacles.
Q: Why was this book so important to create?
My doctor’s report shows that I
escaped death three times! I spent an entire summer in ICU on life support and
special rehabilitation. Once I regained my consciousness, I knew that the rest
of my life would be dedicated to sharing my story of triumph with people in
similar situations. This book was created to endow individuals with survival
tools necessary for life’s journey.
Q: How will your book impact community relationships?
This book is the voice
of millions of people who find themselves at death’s door. Maybe you have
not experienced a severe tragedy; this book will bridge the gap and help
family members, close friends, and colleagues understand how to treat a
survivor of hardship.
Q: Ultimately, what do you want readers to gain from your book?
This book is a
roadmap that will teach readers how to live a triumphant life despite the
odds.
Q: What would you say has been your most significant achievement with this book?
This book has gone into the homes of the hurt and dying and has given them a
reason to live. I have heard the testimonies of doctors, teachers, pastors,
parents, and students who all agreed that this book has encouraged them to
push past their despair and live a life of success.
Q: What can we expect from you in the future?
Well, Loretta Faith Harris is
going places! I am saturating the airwaves, public institutions, and
international markets with this inspirational message of hope. I am currently
a full time doctorate student and will complete my studies in 2010. I plan to
transition from high school teaching to collegiate level in the areas of
reading and education. I will continue to publish up lifting publications
designed to breathe life into my readers.
Q: Share with us your latest news, awards or upcoming book releases.
A.
The Journey Less Traveled recently received three 5 STAR ratings from
RAWSISTAZ Reviewers, OOSA Book Club, and APEX Reviews. (www.amazon.com)
B.
C.H Publishing is hosting a Spring Get-Away Sweepstakes! With every book
purchase readers will be entered for their chance to win a 7-Day Vacation at
one of Orlando’s Premium Resort! (www.chpublishing.org)
D.
Book Club members will receive a 30% discount with their purchase of 10 or
more books. See website for wholesale purchase instructions.
Loretta
"Faith" Harris, M.Ed.
Children’s Heart Publishing, CCR certified
Author of, “The Journey Less Traveled: Choose to Turn Your Tragedy into
Triumph”