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Jessica N. Watkins is a National Best-Selling Author whose journey from the vibrant city of Chicago to literary acclaim is nothing short of inspiring. With a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s degree concentrated in Business Administration from DePaul University, Jessica skillfully balanced a successful career in healthcare administration, became the CEO of her own publishing company, entitled Jessica Watkins Presents, while nurturing her lifelong desire for writing -a passion that was ignited at the tender age of nine. Since the inception of her publishing company, Jessica has not only signed over forty talented authors but has also played a pivotal role in shaping their literary journeys. Her dedication to reviewing and editing manuscripts, successfully publishing, along with her keen eye for graphic arts, has resulted in stunning book covers that have captivated readers. Beyond her impressive work as a publisher, Jessica has embraced her passion for education by empowering aspiring publishers through insightful teachings and mentorship. Her commitment to nurturing talent and fostering community within the publishing industry exemplifies the spirit of generosity and innovation. Jessica’s journey is an inspiring journey, and she continues to make a positive impact on the literary world!

 

Her literary journey began with a third-grade competition entry about a non-growing apple

tree, a tale that would lay the foundation for her future as a storyteller. By seventh grade, her ability to craft relatable narratives for her peers culminated in her book entitled “Jane

Doe”, which proudly found a place in the curriculum at Joliet College, wherein she was

invited as a guest speaker. Jessica’s journey is a remarkable testament to the power of

resilience and creativity. As a young parent navigating the complexities of high school

life, she found solace in storytelling, transforming her experiences into narratives that

resonated deeply with her. In the midst of her challenges, she cultivated a vibrant

imagination that became her refuge, allowing her to escape and explore worlds beyond

her own.

 

Her dedication to the craft was evident as she meticulously handwrote her stories,

turning them into tangible treasures that her classmates would rent for a week. This not

only showcased her talent but also highlighted her entrepreneurial spirit. This early

passion for writing laid the foundation for what would become a flourishing career,

proving that even in the face of adversity, creativity can blossom and lead to

extraordinary opportunities. Jessica’s story is an inspiring reminder that with

determination, you can overcome obstacles and turn dreams into reality.

In 2013, Jessica made her indie debut, launching into the Urban Romance genre with a

book that quickly topped the charts and captured the hearts of readers. Her storytelling

prowess later blossomed into a collection of engaging and humorous narratives that

reflect the rich tapestry of African American experiences. One of her notable works,

Secrets of a Side Chick, has even been adapted into a feature film available on Amazon

Prime and now Tubi, showcasing her versatility as a writer and creator.

In addition to her literary achievements, Jessica founded the Chicago Urban Book Expo

in 2015, an event designed to connect authors and readers from around the globe. This

vibrant expo has since moved to the Chicago Oak Lawn Hilton and has grown into a

three-day celebration of literature, fostering a community that embraces creativity and

storytelling. Jessica N. Watkins is a beacon of literary talent and inspiration, whose

dedication to her craft continues to uplift and engage audiences everywhere!


Jessica N. Watkins is available for talks, workshops, or book signings. Email her at authorjwatkins@gmail.com.

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