Author – Berdeisha McClinton

Growing up in Monroe, Berdeisha McClinton always carried within her a quiet determination that would later shape her journey into becoming a published author and inspirational voice within her community. A proud graduate of Wossman High School, where she attended from 2009 to 2013, Berdeisha spent her school years actively involved in organizations like the 4-H Club and the book club, activities that helped nurture both her creativity and her love for learning. Like many young people growing up in families with strong educational roots, Berdeisha initially believed her future would naturally lead her into teaching because she came from a family of educators and felt that was the expected career path. However, as she entered high school, her dreams began to shift, and she discovered a passion for mortuary science, hoping to become a mortician. Just as she began embracing this new vision for her future, life unexpectedly interrupted her plans when she learned she had serious heart issues that required surgery. The experience changed the trajectory of her life, forcing her to place many of her dreams on hold while she focused on her health and recovery. Although the setback was painful, it ultimately became one of the defining moments that strengthened her faith, resilience, and ability to connect deeply with others through her writing. Berdeisha’s journey into authorship began in an unexpected way while she was working at a charter school where she often wrote poetry as a creative outlet. After the school closed, she transitioned into working at a daycare, uncertain about what direction her life would take next. One day she heard a radio advertisement about a mentorship opportunity and decided to attend an open interview. While there, she met Marie Brown, a woman whose encouragement would forever change her life. Although the company was reportedly seeking male applicants, Brown still took the time to speak with Berdeisha, asking thoughtful questions about her interests, talents, and passions. During that conversation, Brown suggested that Berdeisha should write children’s books, an idea Berdeisha initially resisted because it was not something she had ever considered for herself. Still, Brown insisted she had both the gift and the resources around her to make it happen. Those words lingered in Berdeisha’s mind long after she returned home, and later that evening she began writing her first story, “Ice Cream Cone.” Though it was a start, she felt something important was missing from the story, something deeper and more personal. That realization inspired her to write about bullying, an issue she personally experienced during her own childhood. Berdeisha openly shared that being bullied made her feel worthless and unwanted, emotions that stayed with her for years. Because of those experiences, she believes writing must come from the heart and reflect genuine emotion and truth. She explained that she cannot write unless the story lives within her spirit first, which is why her books carry such authentic emotion and meaning. Today, Berdeisha proudly celebrates becoming a two-time published author with the release of her books “Raymond’s Reflection” and “Big Mama and Her Prayer Closet.” Although the books had technically been completed for some time, she admitted that early versions contained errors and lacked the sense of fulfillment she had hoped to feel. Part of that emotional disconnect came from the pain of losing important people in her life who she wished could have witnessed her accomplishments. However, after seeing the overwhelming support from people sharing and commenting on her work through Facebook, Berdeisha finally began to feel the spark of accomplishment she had long awaited. Knowing her stories are now reaching readers and potentially changing lives has given her renewed confidence and purpose. The inspiration behind “Raymond’s Reflection” came from her desire to encourage and uplift young boys, particularly young Black males who often grow up without positive affirmation or emotional support. Berdeisha explained that while society frequently celebrates female empowerment, there are far fewer stories designed to inspire boys and help them navigate the struggles they face. Drawing from her experiences observing the men in her life and the relationships she encountered over the years, she worked to create a story that would speak directly to the emotional needs of young men and remind them that they are capable of overcoming adversity. Her second book, “Big Mama and Her Prayer Closet,” emerged from a deeply personal place of grief, spirituality, and healing. Berdeisha shared that she never fully experienced the loving relationship many people have with their grandmothers, though she did hold cherished memories of her great-grandmother. During the COVID-19 pandemic, fear and heartbreak consumed many families, and Berdeisha experienced profound pain when a close friend she considered like a grandmother passed away from the virus. That loss forced her to reevaluate her relationship with God and her spiritual life. While she identified as a Christian, she admitted she had not fully dedicated herself to nurturing her faith. Through prayer, reflection, and emotional healing, she realized the importance of having a sacred, quiet place to communicate with God, leading to the inspiration for “Big Mama and Her Prayer Closet.” Even during difficult moments when she feels discouraged or exhausted, Berdeisha continues pushing forward because of the encouragement she receives from others, especially the children she works with and the older individuals she relates to so naturally. She understands that sometimes a single compliment or word of support can make all the difference in helping someone continue their journey. Through every hardship, setback, and triumph, Berdeisha McClinton has transformed pain into purpose, using her voice and experiences to inspire readers of all ages. As a native daughter of Monroe, Louisiana, and now a proud two-time published author, her story stands as a powerful reminder that even life’s greatest challenges can lead to beautiful new beginnings when faith, perseverance, and passion remain at the center of the journey.