Reea Rodney is a living testament to the transformative power of faith and the invigorating words of Philippians 4:13. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Her remarkable journey is a testament to the indomitable spirit that lies within each of us, waiting to be ignited.
As a devoted wife and loving mother to three incredible young adults, Reea hails from the picturesque Caribbean island of Trinidad in the West Indies. Now residing in the vibrant city of Brooklyn, New York, she lives a purpose-driven existence, touching lives and leaving a profound impact wherever she goes.
Reea has since authored and published an awe-inspiring collection of 22 books of which fifteen are children’s books, captivating readers near and far. Her literary prowess has been celebrated with four #1 Bestselling Author titles on Amazon, a testament to her unwavering dedication and mastery of her craft.
Today, Reea is a Self-Publishing Consultant and Book Coach. Drawing upon her profound insights as a Certified Life Coach, Certified Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) Coach and Speaker, she guides aspiring and seasoned authors alike on their transformative journeys.
FWM: Take us through your journey.
My life journey encompasses a vast collection of stories, that could fill perhaps ten books and within these pages lie the tapestry of my existence, woven with countless moments of triumph and tribulation that have left me in awe. I see myself like a mythical phoenix, I have risen time and time again, defying the odds stacked against me. Today, I would like to share a glimpse into my path, from the period of my migration to the United States in 2006 to the present. It is during this time that I faced some of my most arduous battles.
I found myself alone in a foreign land, experiencing a deep sense of despair, hopelessness, and loneliness. Yet, within the depths of my soul, I harbored a dream inspired by the words of great Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. — “I had a dream,” a dream of forging a brighter future for both my family and me. Fueled by resilience and unwavering determination, I embarked on a journey filled with purpose and mission. One crucial aspect of my pursuit for a better life involved acquiring a college degree, leading me to enroll in a nursing program in 2013. However, fate had a different plan in store for me. Within the first month of my studies, I got ill, and I remained unwell throughout the entire 18-month program. It was during this time that I received the diagnosis of fibromyalgia, an illness that presented significant challenges and forced me to pause my educational journey at the associate’s degree level.
Though it was a trying period, I am immensely grateful for my unshakeable faith in God. Even when I felt chastised and burdened, my trust in Him remained unwavering. In His divine wisdom, God instructed me to embark on a journey of healing through writing. Not only was I grappling with physical ailments, I also faced hurdles in the form of a speech impediments as I stutter and have a lisp so this request was a tall order and tested every ounce of my obedience. During that time I was also struggling with low self-esteem and lack of confidence but despite these difficulties, I mustered the strength to press forward. In 2016, I published my first book, “Juniper and Rose – Sisters First and Best Friends Forever,” and founded my own publishing company, Dara Publishing LLC.
In the year that followed, I continued to publish nine more children’s books, miraculously finding healing from an incurable disease. Undeterred by past setbacks, I resolved to pursue my bachelor’s degree, enrolling in college once again in 2019. However, just as I began to make progress, the year 2020 brought with it an immense challenge. I was one of the first group of people to contract COVID-19 in New York City and found myself on the brink of death. Engulfed in a fierce battle for survival, I spent ten agonizing days in the hospital. Once again, divine intervention prevailed, and against all odds, I was healed, even when medical professionals had exhausted their efforts.
A few months later, in yet another testament to the power of faith, God guided me to conclude my career as a childcare provider and step fully into the role of an entrepreneur. Thus, in 2021, I swung open the virtual doors to Dara Publishing, embracing the opportunity to work with aspiring authors. Since then, I have had the privilege of working with authors from diverse backgrounds, spanning various professions, socio-economic classes, and ethnicity. Together, we have published an array of genres, including children’s books, young readers, memoirs/autobiographies, poetry, self-help, thrillers, and romance. With every publication, I have helped someone find their purpose and birth their vision and my company has experienced remarkable growth, both financially and in impact.
FWM: Your first book was “Juniper and Rose: Sisters First and Best Friends Forever.” What was the catalyst for your story?
Juniper and Rose – Sisters First and Best Friends Forever is a heartwarming children’s book that celebrates the bond between siblings while addressing the challenges they face and the power of friendship. The inspiration for this delightful story originated from two beautiful fraternal twin girls who were under my care at the time.
In our diverse world, it is sometimes easy for children to notice the differences between themselves and others. However, understanding and appreciating those differences can be more complex. Juniper and Rose’s journey provides valuable guidance and support, illuminating the path towards embracing these differences and also diversity as the characters are bi-racial.
Within the pages of this book, young readers will join Juniper and Rose as they embark on an exploration of their changing interests and the impact it has on their once unbreakable bond. As the sisters grow older, they find themselves drawn to different activities, sparking a spirited rivalry between them. But amidst their struggle, they discover a profound lesson—being different can be a source of joy and adventure when approached with acceptance, compromise, and teamwork.
This book and the many other children’s book I have written delves into the real-life challenges that children encounter in various walks of life. It encourages the importance of collaboration and empowers young readers to develop problem-solving skills. Through Juniper and Rose’s journey, children are inspired to cultivate a spirit of understanding, unity, and appreciation for others.
Moreover, this book serves as a valuable tool for parents, facilitating conversations about the beauty of diversity and the dynamics of biracial families. By sharing Juniper and Rose’s story, parents can foster a safe and open dialogue with their children, nurturing a sense of empathy, respect, and inclusion.
Juniper and Rose – Sisters First and Best Friends Forever is a cherished addition to any child’s bookshelf, reminding them that while differences may arise, love, understanding, and friendship can triumph, creating bonds that withstand the test of time.
FWM: Since then you have authored and published an awe-inspiring collection of 22 books of which fifteen are children’s books. What have you learned as a self-published author?
As an author on a remarkable journey of self-publishing, I have crossed the path that has led me to craft an astounding collection of 22 books. What’s truly awe-inspiring to me is that 15 of these literary treasures have been crafted with the tender touch of young hearts in mind. As I have a deep love and admiration for children. Over the years I have gain invaluable wisdom and profound insights that have shaped my very being.
Above all else, I have come to realize the immense significance of embracing my passion and pouring my heart into every written word. It is through this deep connection with my innermost desires that I have been able to forge profound bonds with my readers, resonating with them on a level that transcends mere text on a page. This revelation has brought to the forefront the paramount importance of unwavering quality.
Indeed, I have learned that meticulous editing, coupled with the seeking of professional assistance, stands as a pillar of strength in my literary journey. The pursuit of flawlessness has become an integral part of my creative process, ensuring that each piece of content emerges as a polished gem.
Furthermore, understanding my audience has been the cornerstone of my success, particularly when it comes to my children’s books. I have grasped the importance of tailoring my stories, characters, and writing style to captivate the hearts and minds of these young readers, evoking within them a sense of wonder and joy. And what better way to unlock their imaginations than through the art of illustration? I have made it a point to collaborate with talented illustrators or hone my own artistic skills, recognizing the vital role visuals play in captivating the young ones.
In this digital age, building an online presence has become an indispensable tool in reaching out to readers and establishing a devoted following. I have harnessed the power of websites, blogs, and social media platforms to connect with my audience on a deeper level. By embracing the technological realm, I have been able to create a vibrant community of readers and engage with them in a meaningful way.
Lastly, I have come to understand the significance of effective marketing and promotion strategies. With these powerful tools, I have garnered the visibility necessary to expand my readership and reach new horizons. To aspiring authors embarking on their own publishing voyage, my advice is simple yet profound: Embrace your passion with unwavering dedication, strive for excellence in every facet of your craft, intimately understand your audience, cultivate a vibrant online presence, forge connections with fellow authors, and invest in the promotion of your work.
Armed with these guiding principles, and fueled by an unyielding commitment to learning and self-improvement, the path of self-publishing becomes an avenue that leads to both fulfillment and success. So, my fellow authors, let us embark on this grand adventure together, for our words have the power to inspire and transform lives.
FWM: You are a true wordsmith at heart. Tell us about Dara Publishing and how you are helping authors today?
At Dara Publishing, we are dedicated to supporting aspiring authors in their journey towards literary success and making a meaningful impact. While the authors bring their valuable stories, we provide the necessary assistance to bring those stories to life. Our mission goes beyond simply publishing books; we aim to educate authors about the self-publishing industry, empowering them to become confident leaders who can monetize their work and positively transform lives.
Our expertise spans a wide range of genres, including self-help memoirs, autobiographies, spiritual and faith-based books, children’s books, novels, suspense/thrillers, poems, and guided journals. With our full-service publishing approach, a dedicated team of experts meticulously handles each project. From editors and book designers to formatters, illustrators, graphic designers, and web designers, we ensure professional excellence in every aspect. Professional publishing is crucial for your book’s success, allowing you to save time, money, and effort. Additionally, we offer writing coaching packages, ghostwriting services tailored to the genre, and basic marketing support, turning our clients’ dream of becoming authors into a reality.
To make the publishing journey more accessible, we provide interest-free payment plans for those in need of financial support. Our rates are highly competitive, offering significant value for the comprehensive services included in each package.
FWM: How does it feel to be the #1 Bestselling Author, Self-Publishing Consultant and Book Coach?
The #1 bestselling author fills me with immense gratitude. It’s a symphony of emotions, blending sheer bliss with profound appreciation. Once just a distant dream, it became a reality when my book, Juniper and Rose, rose to the charts on Amazon during the height of the pandemic in 2020. This unexpected success ignited my hunger for understanding the secrets behind it, leading me to research and test strategies that cracked the code of becoming a bestseller. Now, I ensure my books meet all requirements, extending the same knowledge to my clients, resulting in their success as well.
What makes me unique? Ah, a delightful question indeed! My uniqueness stems from a deep connection with the written word, particularly in children’s books. It’s a bond forged by my sincere passion for storytelling. With every stroke of my pen or keystroke on the keyboard, I strive to touch hearts, inspire minds, and transport readers to extraordinary worlds beyond their imagination.
However, my uniqueness isn’t solely found in my words; it resides in the readers who embrace them. It’s the souls who eagerly turn the pages, finding solace and inspiration within my tales. Their kind words and unwavering support elevate me, reminding me of the incredible power within stories.
As the #1 bestselling author, I’m humbled and indebted to every reader, supporter, and the magical dance of words on the pages of my books. Their unwavering belief has transformed dreams into reality, and for that, I am eternally grateful.
FWM: How important are press releases to the success of authors?
Press releases can play a crucial role in the success of authors. They serve as a powerful tool to generate publicity, increase visibility, and create buzz around their work. Press releases allow authors to share key information about their books, such as launch dates, unique features, and compelling storylines, with the media and potential readers.
By distributing well-crafted press releases to targeted media outlets, authors can capture the attention of journalists, bloggers, and influencers who may be interested in covering their story. This can result in valuable media coverage, interviews, reviews, and features that can significantly boost the exposure and credibility of the author and their work.
Press releases also provide an opportunity for authors to showcase their writing skills and establish themselves as experts in their genre or field. They can include captivating quotes, author background information, and compelling story angles that capture the interest of journalists and readers alike.
Furthermore, press releases can help authors attract the attention of literary agents, publishers, and industry professionals. A well-distributed press release can demonstrate the author’s commitment to their work and generate interest from those in the publishing industry who are looking for new talent.
In summary, press releases are highly important to the success of authors as they can generate publicity, increase visibility, attract media coverage, and establish the author’s credibility. They serve as a valuable tool in creating awareness and interest in their work, ultimately contributing to their overall success as an author.
FWM: You also want to empower children with the Literary and Creative Arts Children’s Publishing Summer Academy. What exactly is this and what would you offer?
With a deep love for children, my heartfelt desire is to establish a nonprofit organization called Dara Publishing Literary and Creative Arts Children’s Publishing Summer Academy in 2024. This academy aims to provide an “un-school” outlet for creative youth who have a story to tell. Our program participants will not only learn the art of writing and publishing their stories but also enhance their academic abilities in reading, writing, and overall communication. The positive impact on these areas will transform their attitudes toward school, motivating them to embrace learning.
Moreover, our participants will develop an appreciation for the intricacies of writing and the dedication required to publish a book. They will gain hands-on experience through weekly assignments encompassing reading, writing, storytelling, and critical thinking. Working closely with professional authors who serve as publishers, book coaches, and editors, our students will delve into the real-world aspects of the publishing industry.
Dara Publishing Literary and Creative Arts Children’s Publishing Summer Academy goes beyond nurturing aspiring writers and transforming them into published authors. It empowers them with the skills to embody the role of an author, teaching them how to articulate their ideas, promote their books, and manage the income earned from their literary endeavors.
This program is thoughtfully designed to bolster self-esteem, foster self-confidence, ignite creativity, advance literacy skills, and inspire entrepreneurship in young minds. By embracing a positive mindset and engaging in productive practices, our participants will not only grow as individuals but also embark on a journey of self-discovery and endless possibilities.
FWM: As a speaker what are your key topics for conferences?
Due to my busy workload at Dara Publishing, it has been more than a year and a half since I actively pursued speaking engagements. However, my passion and primary topic remain centered around “Nurturing Resilient Minds and Empowering Children through Personal Development.” Drawing from my experience as a children’s personal development life coach, certified mindful parenting practitioner, years of dedicated service as a childcare provider and a mother to three young adult children, I am deeply passionate about empowering children to thrive.
In today’s complex world, children face various personal struggles. From navigating the challenges of school and fostering meaningful friendships to dealing with bullying, lacking self-love, confidence, and battling negative self-talk, their journey can be daunting. Moreover, many children endure the harsh realities of verbal abuse within their homes, leaving them emotionally and mentally shattered.
Hence, my primary audience includes children, parents, and educators who play pivotal roles in shaping a child’s growth. The core message of my speaking topics revolves around the utmost significance of promoting personal development in children.
Through engaging discussions, I explore strategies and practical approaches to foster resilience, self-esteem, and emotional well-being in children. I delve into the power of mindful parenting techniques, imparting insights on creating nurturing environments where children can flourish. By addressing the importance of positive communication, self-love, and instilling a growth mindset, I aim to equip parents and educators with the tools to uplift and empower the young minds they influence. By promoting personal development in children, we can unlock their potential, foster their emotional intelligence, and provide them with the skills to navigate life’s ups and downs with confidence and grace.
FWM: What’s next for you?
In my life’s journey, I’ve come to realize that I am not the sole author of my story. Just like the lyrics of a beloved song proclaim, “Where He leads me, I will follow.” There is a deep reservoir of untapped potential within me, and at times, the sheer abundance of possibilities overwhelms me. I yearn to embrace them all, but I also understand the wisdom in discerning the best path to take. Therefore, my next steps involve both personal growth and professional aspirations.
Firstly, my priority lies in nurturing an even closer relationship with God. This spiritual endeavor is deeply personal, an ongoing quest for a profound connection with the Divine. Simultaneously, on a professional level, I am dedicated to expanding and fortifying Dara Publishing—a venture that has kindled great aspirations within me. I hold onto hope, trusting that these dreams will come to fruition in due time, through my tireless efforts and by God’s grace.
Looking ahead, the upcoming year and a half will witness my concerted efforts to amplify my visibility and extend my reach. I am determined to establish the Dara Publishing Literary and Creative Arts Children’s Publishing Summer Academy—a transformative platform aimed at positively impacting young lives through the power of literacy. Additionally, I am fueled by a burning desire to create a groundbreaking self-publishing program tailored specifically for Christian women—a program that I envision as “Unveiling Grace: A Memoir of Restoration and Renewal.”
In these endeavors, my heart’s desire is to empower women to embrace their unique stories of healing and share them with the world. I long to create a safe space where women can unlock their voices, harness the power of their narratives, and embark on transformative journeys of self-discovery. Through this program, I aspire to foster a community of Christian women who find solace, strength, and inspiration in one another’s stories—a sisterhood united in faith, restoration, and renewal.
As I venture forward, I acknowledge that my life is not solely my own. Guided by God’s hand, I navigate this path of growth, both personally and professionally. I embrace the belief that with perseverance, faith, and dedication, I will continue to make meaningful contributions to the world around me, leaving an indelible impact on the lives of others.
To learn more about Dara Publishing and the work Reea is doing in the self-publishing industry you can visit her website at www.darapublishing.co. Also, connect with Reea visit on her social media platforms, and become part of a community that celebrates dreams and fuels the flames of possibility:
Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/darapublishing/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dara_publishing/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reea-rodney/
Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/darapublishing
