Deetra La'Rue Benn

"Go confidently in the direction of your dreams, and live the life you've imagined", said famed Poet, Henry Thoreau. When I realized what my dreams were, I understood what I had to do to accomplish them. 22 years ago, I set out in the direction of writing and storytelling. There's something so gratifying, yet cathartic, when I'm able to determine the narrative and outcome of a story, particularly the one of my life, considering the fact, I almost lost mine. I'm 35-years-old and I was born and raised in Montgomery, AL, which is home to one of the biggest Civil Rights Movement, "The Bus Boycott". I am a huge advocate of Social Justice Reform and Humans Rights, and because of my efforts with both, I was awarded the Coretta Scott King Award, February 09, 2020, by the West Montgomery District, in my hometown.

At the age of 14, I learned I was gifted and purposed to write, but I had no clue what to do with it or how far it'd take me. However, I did what came natural to me and brought me complete joy. I started out writing poetry, but God would later lead me to write inspirational books to offer support to those in need. Aside from "Words are weapons too"!, I've authored two other books, Glitter but no gold: How I turned my wounds into wisdom and Let’s TALK! Conversations that need to be had, but often go undone. I still reside in Montgomery, where I continue to do the things I love: write, serve as a motivational speaker and the pen behind, Notes by La’Rue, where I bring hope, encouragement and motivation, one “NOTE” at a time. When not writing, I enjoy volunteering/community service, shopping and most importantly, spending time with my family.