K. Joyner Books
KELLI JOYNER
My Story
I lived a charmed life. I grew up in Michigan with two caring parents and a funny, generous younger brother. While still fairly young, I met and fell in love with my wonderful husband. We later had two amazing children… a boy and a girl. I certainly can’t leave out my close-knit, extended family that has always supported me.
After graduating in engineering from a top university, I successfully climbed the corporate ladder at a Fortune 500 company and now, post an early retirement, reside in the city my husband and I always dreamed of living. What could be more perfect?!
Everything changed in 2021, when I encountered a storm in my life that not only caused me to question God’s love, but launched my writing career…
Yes, you read that last sentence correctly. The most horrific event that could ever happen to anyone is what launched my writing career. Sounds impossible to believe? I would agree, if I hadn’t lived through it.
My Writing Journey
In 2021, my brother died, followed by my mom, just one week later, both unexpectedly. Then, just 5 ½ months later, my dad died… again, unexpectedly.
I had no idea how to reconcile losses so traumatic, unexpected and close together. How do I ever recover? Will the pain ever end? What happens to all the love I showered on my family? Will it just fade away?
After many thoughtful conversations with family and friends, peppering God constantly with questions, several sessions with a caring grief mentor from my church and meeting with a licensed therapist, I was finally able to work through my emotions and accept the losses.
Memoir & Grief Journal
In 2023, I wrote a memoir that tells my story of loss, how I came to accept my losses and the lessons I’ve learned. It also includes a grief journal, which is the heart of the book, to help others who are grieving.
Children’s Book
The following year, I went on to write two Young Adult Novels (awaiting representation), adapted one to a screenplay and released my first children’s book that will be part of a series, to help children develop positive social skills and confidence.
My Purpose
Recently, I reflected on the key themes in my stories and realized there are two…
Healing & Kindness
But most of all…
Overcoming
These stories provide an opportunity for the legacies of my loved ones to help others overcome.
-Kelli
Books
Overcoming Loss - A Memoir & Grief Journal
Foreword by Lee Jenkins, Senior Pastor Eagles Nest Church, Roswell, GA
Overcoming Shyness - A Children’s Book
