Author Renee A. Johnson Speaks to AC from YAHOO!

Most of you that know me are aware that I am a foodie, but some don't know about my love for reading. Reading and writing were great passions of mine since I was a young child. Reading allowed me to be carried away to the point of losing myself in the story. I am not much of a fiction person because I like things that are based on reality.

Some of the best book categories I have ever read are ministry, leadership, self-improvement and poetry. The fine art of reading has almost been lost in our Internet savvy, instant gratification, I want it now world. I love books because they have a way of allowing us to slow down and really be in the moment. When you're reading, you're not thinking about texting or surfing the Internet. You are fully engaged in what the writer is saying.

I was recently introduced to a new author in the Atlanta area named Renee A. Johnson and caught up with her to learn more about her latest project titled "The Gift God Gave Me" and here's what she had to say.

YAHOO: Good afternoon Renee. How are you today?

RAJ: Hi Karen, I'm doing well, so excited about what God is doing in my life.

YAHOO: I understand you are a native of Newark, New Jersey. When did you relocate to Georgia?

RAJ: Yes I am; I lived there all my life until nearly 13 years ago. I desired a change and the Lord made it possible, He opened several doors for me.

YAHOO: How is the south different from New Jersey? Do you feel as though you are walking out your purpose here in Georgia?

RAJ: When I first relocated to Georgia I lived with my aunt for about 6 months. I was so home sick and everything was so far apart. The streets were dark and it was too quiet. Needless to say I returned to Jersey. It was not the Lord's plan for me to return home though, less than 8 months the company I was employed with offered me a position in Georgia. I accepted and Georgia is now home. As for walking out my purpose, know that I ran from my purpose for many years, I didn't want to do what the Lord had for me to do. Today, I can say I am walking out my purpose.

YAHOO: Renee, tell our readers a little bit about what inspired your new book, "The Gift God Gave Me".

RAJ: I once was a manic depressant, a loner, which was one of the most difficult times in my life. While being delivered from that illness, words of encouragement, wisdom and inspiration would just come to mind. As I would journal these thoughts the words began to speak to my heart and "The Gift God Give Me" came to be. Today so many are experiencing some type of hardship I want to encourage them; so they'll know they are not alone and they will get through it.

YAHOO: What will readers be able to take away from this book?

RAJ: My prayer is that each individual that reads "The Gift God Gave Me" will receive revelation that God is real. I desire for them to know and receive the things we experience in life is all according to the Master's plan and His purpose for our lives, and the day will come when we are able to see His will prevail.

YAHOO: Where will people be able to purchase "The Gift God Gave Me"?

RAJ: My book will be available on Amazon.com, Book for Less and possibly Barnes & Noble; my publisher is in the progress of working out this agreement. My publisher will also have copies available at www.mariposadreams.com .

YAHOO: What words of wisdom or advice can you give to aspiring authors?

RAJ: Believe in yourself and be committed to the purpose for writing your book. Know that no one will want this for you, more than yourself. Encourage yourself, discipline yourself and accomplish what you have set out to achieve. ~ Be Blessed ~

YAHOO: How can people connect with you on-line Renee?

RAJ: Currently someone can reach me by sending me a message via Facebook (Renee A. Johnson). As the day approaches for my book to be released, my website will be available as well as a page on Facebook for "The Gift God Gave Me", which will advise of my webpage. Thank you so much Karen, you are a true Blessing!!

YAHOO: Thank you Renee and I pray that God grant you the desires of your heart for pouring into the lives of His people.