Today we’d like to introduce you to Marquita Thomas-Turner
Marquita, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Losing my father while pregnant with my first child was one of the most devastating things I ever had to endure. During my grieving process, I would often find myself contemplating the conversations that we had regarding the wisdom and memories he wanted to share with his first grandchild. With a burning desire for my son to get an understanding of who his grandad was, the idea of writing a children’s book series detailing all the experiences he wanted to share with him was born. Being a person who always likes to capture the moment, taking a picture with his grandson was one of the first things he wanted to do.
The first book in the series KJ Chronicles: Adventures with Grandad (Picture Day) takes readers on a heartfelt journey on the love and bond shared between a grandad and grandson during a classic picture day experience. Not only can customers enjoy the book, which is available on Amazon, but also purchase merchandise from my Etsy store including products such as custom flashcards, tumblers, mini puzzles, etc. I have recently published my second book in the series called KJ Chronicles: Adventures with Grandad (A Day At The Park), which is also available on Amazon along with a custom Activity Book. In order to add an interactive aspect for my readers, I have incorporated an animated prospect on YouTube called KJ Chronicles: Adventures with Grandad Animated Series, where each episode will go along with each book in the series.
My motivation for starting my business is to create a legacy for my family. Even though the circumstance for which it was created came from a devastating situation, I want others to know that purpose and growth can manifest from pain. Resilience, vision and hard work are main characteristics that keeps me focus on being successful.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Anything worth having in life requires hard work, dedication and consistency. I believe that obstacles and challenges yield opportunities for advancement. Some challenges I have faced so far is developing marketing strategies that can assist with business promotion and growth as well as finding companies that produce board books that are more affordable.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
All of my life I had a passion and love for helping others, which sparked my interest into entering the healthcare field and earn my Bachelor’s of Science degree in Respiratory Therapy and later my Graduate Certificate in Clinical Health Informatics. Since 2017, I have practiced as a Registered Respiratory Therapist at one of the most notable hospitals in Atlanta, caring for patients in both acute and critical care areas such as the Emergency Department and Intensive Care Units. I am most proud of the love and support I have received from family and friends during my journey to entrepreneurship. What set me apart from others is my drive and consistency to succeed despite any adversity that comes along the way.
We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
I love trying new experiences that takes me out of my comfort zone. Recently my husband and I experienced parasailing for the very first time, which is definitely something different from my day-to-day activity.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://kjchronicles.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kjchronicles22?igsh=dDF2cjU4ZXNwcHEw
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@kjchroniclesadventureswithgran?si=0wGv0ii87Rxr7auv
- Other: https://www.etsy.com/shop/KJChronicles
Image Credits
Terrell Pinckney
