Speaker Profile Thumbnail for Beverly Jenkins

Award-Winning Author of Historical Romance | Expert on African American History and Culture | Speaker on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Beverly Jenkins Speaking Fee: $10,000 and Below

Award-Winning Author of Historical Romance | Expert on African American History and Culture | Speaker on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Speaker Profile Thumbnail for Beverly Jenkins
Speaking Fee:
$10,000 and Below

Travels From:
DTW - Detroit, MI

Primary Topic Category:
African American & Black

Secondary Topic Category:
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) / Social Justice

 

Beverly Jenkins Speaker Profile: At A Glance

Beverly Jenkins is an award-winning author known for her historical and contemporary romance novels that highlight 19th-century African American life. Her work blends meticulous research with storytelling to bring overlooked Black histories to a wider audience. Jenkins has been recognized for her contribution to literature and her role in promoting diversity and inclusion. She speaks widely on themes of history, culture, and social justice. Beverly lives in Southeastern Michigan.

Beverly Jenkins is a celebrated author known for her historical and contemporary romance novels that center on 19th-century African American life. Born in Detroit in 1951, she developed a passion for reading and storytelling early on, encouraged by her mother who surrounded her with books. Although she initially pursued a career in library sciences, Jenkins transitioned into writing romance novels in her early 40s, with her debut novel, Night Song, published in 1994. Jenkins is recognized for her meticulous research and commitment to portraying African American history beyond the confines of slavery narratives. Her works often highlight themes of Black love, resilience, and community, offering readers a window into the rich tapestry of African American experiences. Notable works include Indigo, which follows a conductor on the Underground Railroad, and Wild Rain, set in the post-Civil War Wyoming Territory. Throughout her career, Jenkins has received numerous accolades, including the 2017 Romance Writers of America Nora Roberts Lifetime Achievement Award and the 2018 Michigan Author Award from the Michigan Library Association. She has also been featured in the documentary Love Between the Covers and on CBS Sunday Morning, further cementing her influence in the literary world. Beyond her writing, Jenkins is an advocate for diversity and inclusion in literature. She actively mentors emerging writers and promotes the importance of representation in storytelling. Residing in Southeastern Michigan, she continues to inspire readers and writers alike with her dedication to authentic storytelling and her unwavering commitment to shedding light on underrepresented histories.
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