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Meet LaDeirdre (Dee-Dee) Forehand of Westside

Today we’d like to introduce you to LaDeirdre (Dee-Dee) Forehand.

LaDeirdre (Dee-Dee) Forehand

Hi, LaDeirdre (Dee-Dee); we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
When I was in high school, I loved English. I always wanted to be a published author. A few years after high school, I became a merchant mariner. We were docked in Honolulu, Hawaii. It was around 2:30; God gave me the name of my book series and the book titles I would write about later. I wrote everything down. I got off the ship in August 2020; I started networking. I was connected with a well-known children’s book author, Toni Settles. She helped me with everything, from the book publishing companies to the paperwork I needed to start. I also found the perfect illustrator, Sehar Sadiq, who understood my vision. She knew exactly how I wanted my characters and designs to look. Here’s the story behind my success. My maternal grandmother (granny) has always been my superhero. We spent a lot of time together in my younger years. We were like Thelma and Lois. I wanted to honor her in a way I could share with the world. We did so much together throughout my childhood, and we still do today. So, my books are based on our relationship throughout my life, in the eyes of 8-year-old me. So, now I can share them with the rest of the world forever.

Can you tell us about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth?
It wasn’t easy initially because I was doing things independently without help. But after praying and going back to the drawing board, I devised a deadline plan and executed it. It was just that simple. Planning is a must.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a merchant mariner (a sailor). I’ve been doing this for almost 6yrs. I am a crane operator and able seamen (AB). I work on ships/boats. We pretty much keep the upkeep of the vessel. We clean, chip/paint, needle gun, and fix things on the vessel. I am the neat freak on the vessel. If I don’t like how it looks, I do whatever needs to be done until I’m satisfied. I am always happy, no matter what. I’ll keep you smiling and laughing all day. People will never forget me for my bold personality.

Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
To my readers: Never stop pursuing your purpose in life. You can do anything you set your mind to. Set daily goals and deadlines for yourself. Remember: If you fail to plan, you are planning to fail.

Pricing:

  • My books are available on all platforms
  • Amazon $15
  • Barnes and Noble $15
  • Books A Million $15
  • Also Available on all my social media platforms

Contact Info:

Image Credits
Jesus (My Lord and Savior), Clara Campbell (My Granny/ inspiration), Japanica Hunter (digital creator/mentor), Toni Settles (Author), Sehar Sadiq (Illustrator), Tajon McCrea (Influencer/ Marketing), Shantell Peters (Editor), Khristian Young Jordan (Influencer/ Bestie)

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