Derek R. King
Derek R. King, is an award-winning multi-genre poet / author and is also a musician. He lives in Scotland, enjoys the great outdoors, long walks in the hills, the sounds of the seas and ocean, art, photography and good malt whisky.
Derek’s non-fiction book “The Life and Times of Clyde Kennard”, tells the story of one man’s struggle in those difficult days. As a contributor to the “Winter Chills” anthology, Derek wove a spooky fiction ghost story. His poetry, which covers diverse topics, has been variously described as "emotive", "raw", "powerful" and "fun". He and his multi-genre award-winning writing partner, Julie Kusma write and create poetry, inspirational, children’s picture and children and family education books. |
The Life and Times of Clyde Kennard
Non-Fiction
In 1955, Clyde Kennard, a decorated army veteran, was forced to cut short the final year of his studies at the University of Chicago and return home to Mississippi due to family circumstances, where Kennard made the decision to complete his education. Yet still on the eve of the civil rights movement in America, Kennard’s decision would be one of the first serious attempts to integrate any public school at the college level in the state. The Life and Times of Clyde Kennard tells the true story of Kennard’s efforts to complete his further education at Mississippi Southern College (now the University of Southern Mississippi) against the backdrop of the institutionalized social order of the times and the prevailing winds of change attempting to blow that social order away. As Meredith’s admission to "Ole Miss" became more widely known at the time, Kennard became the forgotten man. Author Derek R. King shares his extensive research into Kennard’s life, and touches on key events that shaped those times. |
Noir (or When the Night Comes)
Poetry
"Noir is the French word for "dark," and in his first poetry book, Derek R. King takes us on a chilling and deeply emotional journey through the different forms of darkness. Using the French term as a metaphor for the less desirable but unavoidable elements of life. The beauty of King's work also lies in the simplicity with which he writes. His words are not only vivid and piercing; they are also easy to grasp. King obviously paid attention to Hemingway's reply to Faulkner's criticism: "poor Faulkner, does he really think big emotions come from big words?" Apart from King's apt choice of words, he applies thoughtful figurative expressions that add color to his dark themed poems. He brings the concepts to life by pulling the emotions out of the dark corners of the mind and into the light where they can be properly felt and understood. The authenticity with which King writes is also worth mentioning. He supplies an honest appraisal of the emotions which lurk in the crevices of our hearts. He's raw, direct, and brutally candid, as he makes us feel what we feel but cannot acknowledge. There's a dark side. It's not pretty, but it exists, and King isn't afraid to point it out.” Literary Titan |
Natyre Boy
Poetry
"Dazzling seascapes, soft fields brimming with flowers, and the homes of mythological beings are just some of the places you'll be transported to by the words of Derek King in his collection Natyre Boy. The exotic images he evokes tell the story of the land over the course of a year, visiting all the seasons and the changes they may bring, through storms and calm, over a variety of landscapes. Natyre Boy is King's second collection of poems and focuses, and you may surmise, on the natural world around us and the beauty it both possesses and exudes. It brings to mind images of idyllic, lazy days spent gazing out at the ocean, or laying in a field as bees and butterflies flit about. King's use of language is superb, often proving that less is more in the way he can paint a complete picture over the course of just several lines. Natyre Boy is not only easy to read but solidly enjoyable. The poems exude joy and warmth in their language and delivery. King's words perfectly grasp those universal feelings that are often incredibly difficult to name but also instantly recognizable. This collection is a joy." Literary Titan |
Twelve Red Roses in Verse
Poetry
“Twelve Red Roses in Verse, by Derek R. King, is a collection of poems with love as the common thread. True, deep unconditional love is celebrated and explored through each poem. Each poem is proceeded with a roman numeral drawn in roses and a short line stating the significance of the number of roses. Many themes run through these poems that relate to love allowing the reader to become emotionally connected to these poems. Throughout the fifty poems in this collection, readers will experience the ups and downs of relationships. From the exciting new relationship stage to being comfortable and growing with one another. Each poem expressed different emotions that people go through in a relationship until they reach unconditional love for each other. This sentimental book is overflowing with all the deep emotions that love can bring, which can sometimes be overwhelming as readers take in King’s deep and meaningful words. Twelve Red Roses is a heart-warming collection of poetry that will stir emotions and give readers something deep to think about. Whether you are single or in a relationship, this beautiful collection will make readers want to celebrate love in all its stages.” Literary Titan |
The Enchanted Faerie Realm
Children's Poetry Book
Meander through enchanted realms of mystical beings with mischievous faeries who dance in the moonlight, and sprinkle the magic of the stars over you as you sleep. Playful pixies frolic about, while faeries giggle, and gnomes wiggle upon the leaves of the forest. So, read the magical poetry of “The Enchanted Faerie Realm.” Find happiness strolling through the Faerie Realm, and let the magic come home with you. You’ll also find faeries to color, a journal to record your dreams, and a faerie’s guide to writing poetry. |
Amore, The Lighter Half, Volume 2
Poetry
Prepare yourself to be swept away in a love affair with love itself. You will find yourself diving into the deepest oceans and climbing to heights that you never knew existed. Love poems are some of the most intimate when it comes to poetry. Amore, The Lighter Half, Volume 2 will make you blush; make your heart realize what it yearns for. Each poem brings you closer to the sweet surrender of the heart. Your toes will tingle, your soul will soar, and your state of mind will change. This book will make you believe in the concept of forevermore. You will understand that to be spiritually and emotionally entwined to another is the best kind of magic. |
Abracadabra, The Lighter Half, Volume 1
Poetry
This magical book has an otherworldly vibe that entwines itself with the ethereal realm of the soul and the natural world. Each poem explores the authenticity of the soul’s search for meaning and connection to existing in and of itself. Emotion is an action and reaction influenced by the supernatural and the natural world around us. As you read each poem that flows so effortlessly from beginning to end, you become aware of every element interacting with our mind, body, and soul. It becomes evident that we are part of everything, and everything is part of us. This book will be the magic you need to find renewal and refresh your essence of life. |
Our Trees: Botanics, Beliefs, & More
Biological Science/Celtic Religion
If you are looking for an inspirational, educational, and beautiful book, Our Trees is the book to have in your bookcase. This book isn’t only for the adults in your family but can be used as a tool to teach children the value and meaning of nature. Our Trees takes you on a botanical exploration of various trees and their symbolic meanings. Each page fills you with the knowledge that past generations knew--what each tree symbolized, their medicinal properties, and many other uses for each. Your children will love the games included inside, from a board game to a word search and even a puzzle. Our trees is a family-friendly book that will entertain and inform everyone who reads it. You will adore the short story at the end of this book—“Why Trees Lose Their Leaves” is a heartwarming tale of bravery and selflessness. It is a perfect story for all, especially children. |
The Poetry Mouse
Children's Poetry Book
Evie believes there is more to life than taking care of her house and baking for her friends. She’s not like the other mice. She has a different path; her purpose is to write poetry. Being a mouse, she longs for the simplicity of nature. So, every day she sneaks past the woods and into the meadow where she writes her inspired words. She might even find encouragement from a friend to submit her poems. This is Evie's story of finding her authentic self, becoming brave enough to do what she loves, and ultimately sharing her gift with the world as The Poetry Mouse. |
Honey: Words to Heal & Mend
Inspirational
A collection of art inspired by Kintsugi and Wabi-Sabi coupled with honey words to heal and mend by author-poets, Julie L. Kusma and Derek R. King. The complete poem, 'Kintsugi' by Derek R. King can be read at julie-kusma dot com. This book carries the reader along on an uplifting soothing spiritual and motivational journey of healing and cleansing when the world acts as a siphon extracting joy and harmony from our mind, body, and soul. When you seek peace, you will find it when you gently turn the pages of Honey; Words to Heal & Mend. This book guides you through a realm of sweet, flowing poetry. The words in this book are like the nectar of the Greek Gods of Love; Eros and Aphrodite. Grab your favorite beverage, turn on some meditative music, and bask in the delights of poetic prose. You’ll be transported into the arms of Love, healing, and peace—no longer broken, scarred, and alone, if only for a moment in time. We are the “perfectly imperfect” and looking for the “magic which binds us together.” "This coffee table book is a magnificent collaboration of artwork and poetry, a treasure trove of creativity, and an infusion of love’s illumination. Each page drips with healing golden pools of restorative emotions and uplifting chanson of harmonic beauty, transcending and unifying the fragments within. We all need this inspirational sparkle in our lives. A truly magnificent gift by Derek R. King & Julie L. Kusma. Do your soul a favor, and reward yourself with some Honey: Words to Heal & Mend. An exquisite coffee table book that adorns any room as well as the spirit.” Blessings of Joy, Lali A. Love www.AuthorLaliALove.com QUOTE FROM THE EDITOR I feel as though I floated through a spiritual journey of healing in this masterpiece by Derek King and Julie Kusma. Their “Honey Words” are a golden milky way to the soul.- Jill Yoder, Editor |
Unchaste
Erotic Poetry
Love is truly an enigma. No two human beings experience it the same—especially when two consenting adults chase after the most amorous moments of sexuality. This book takes you on a journey of the instinct of human connection. As a bee usurps the nectar of a flower, so does the heart seize the soul. This poetry melts as golden honey over every inch of your mind. The words will gently caress you and give you permission to dream naughty scenarios with your partner. You will find yourself breathing deep, sighing often, and daydreaming of lovemaking. Every poem lights the way to emotional, spiritual, and physical pleasure. Unchaste is the perfect book for your Soulmate or the ideal gift for your Forevermore. |
Santa's Claws
Gothic Holiday Poetry
Santa's Claws is the second book of gothic poetry in the new series The Dark Half by Derek R. King and the Queen of Horror, Julie L. Kusma. The timbre of each piece flows from dark comic humor to the macabre with many twists along the way all themed around the magical time of year—Christmas! Presented in a bespoke format with each poem accompanied by its own unique art reminiscent of the woodblock style. |
The Darker Half, Volume 13
Gothic Poetry
The Darker Half, the first in a new series by Derek R. King and the Queen of Horror, Julie L. Kusma is a collection of gothic All Hallows' poetry. The timbre of each piece flows from dark comic humor to the macabre with many twists along the way. Presented in a bespoke format with each poem accompanied by its own unique art reminiscent of the woodblock style. |
Our Christmas: Traditions, Memories, & More
Holiday
The Holiday season is always the perfect time to share recipes, craft ideas, and words of love and enrichment. Every family enjoys the passing down of traditions and keepsakes. If you are looking for a book to share with your family, Our Christmas is the perfect book for the job. So open up the cover and explore the magic that springs forth from the pages. |