Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Deontae Henderson. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Deontae, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

I discovered my passion for a creative path professionally during my junior year of college. After realizing my dream of becoming a professional athlete might not happen, I embraced my love for reading and writing. Inspired by my mom’s suggestion, I decided to write a children’s book with a message about chasing dreams despite obstacles. That’s how “TO THE TOP,” featuring the determined turtle named Koa, was born. Writing became my career focus, allowing me to inspire young readers with meaningful stories.

Deontae, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I’m Deontae Henderson, a children’s book author with around 20 published books, and a creative writer with a deep passion for inspiring and empowering young minds through my words.

My creative journey began during my junior year at Tennessee State University. As a young athlete with dreams of becoming a professional basketball player, I realized that life had a different path for me. Embracing my love for reading and writing, I discovered a profound passion for storytelling. It was a turning point that led me to create captivating children’s books, aiming to instill valuable life lessons and motivate children to chase their dreams unapologetically.

I am best known for my heartwarming children’s books like “TO THE TOP,” “Kid Smoove,” “Young William,” “The Hungriest Pirate,” and “Momma Bear.” These stories carry messages of perseverance, self-belief, and embracing individuality, designed to resonate with both children and adults. Through my books, I provide families and educators with valuable tools to teach essential life lessons in an engaging and accessible way.

Aside from my work as a children’s book author, I have also ventured into the world of ghostwriting. Collaborating with public figures and celebrities, I help them share their stories and messages authentically. My versatility as a writer allows me to adapt my style to suit their unique voices and visions, establishing meaningful connections with readers.

As a freelancer, I explore various themes and genres in my creative writing, giving me the freedom to connect with diverse audiences. My writing not only entertains but also sparks inspiration and encourages readers to believe in themselves, regardless of their age or background.

What sets me apart from others in the industry is my genuine passion for creating meaningful content. I pour my heart into each story, ensuring that they carry messages of positivity and empowerment. My dedication to making a positive impact on the world drives me to engage in speaking events, sharing my message of determination and chasing dreams.

One of my proudest achievements is the success of my self-published books on platforms like Amazon and Barnes and Noble. Seeing my books featured in prominent stores and receiving recognition from readers and clients alike fills me with immense pride and motivates me to continue making a difference through my writing.

I want people to know that my writing is not just about entertainment, but about making a positive impact on young minds. My mission is to inspire children and adults to believe in themselves and embrace the endless possibilities that life offers. I strive to connect with readers on a personal level, leaving a lasting impression through my heartfelt stories.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

Absolutely! In addition to inspiring the youth and being an example of hard work paying off, I have a grand vision for my creative journey. I aspire to build my stories and characters into a beloved empire, much like the legacies of Jim Henson and Dr. Seuss. They created timeless and iconic worlds that have touched the hearts of generations. Similarly, I dream of my characters and stories becoming cherished classics that continue to inspire and entertain for years to come.

It’s not just about writing books; it’s about building an immersive universe that captures the imaginations of readers and extends into various forms of media, from movies to animations. I want my brand to be synonymous with positivity, empowerment, and endless possibilities. It’s a lofty goal, but one that fills me with excitement and drives me to pour my heart and soul into every word I write.

I hope to leave a lasting legacy of inspiration and impact and to be remembered for the positive change I brought to the world through storytelling. I’m on a journey to create something extraordinary,

Have any books or other resources had a big impact on you?

Two resources that significantly impacted my management and entrepreneurial thinking are “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho and “The Power of Broke” by Daymond John. “The Alchemist” taught me to follow my dreams and embrace the journey, while “The Power of Broke” inspired resourcefulness and perseverance. Additionally, TED Talks and podcasts by successful entrepreneurs have also shaped my mindset and encouraged me to continuously seek knowledge and personal growth on my entrepreneurial journey. These resources remind me that success is about more than just financial gains; it’s about making a positive impact and staying true to my vision.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.amazon.com/Deontae-Henderson/e/B07KPQSLFH
• Instagram: @justdeontae
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deontae-h-b25023251/
• Other: https://deontaehenderson.medium.com/ https://reedsy.com/deontae-henderson