KALANDICE THOMAS TURNS HER JOURNEY OF STRUGGLE INTO A POETIC EXPRESSION OF FAITH, TRANSFORMATION, AND HOPE - VORAKA

Kalandice Thomas’s journey to becoming a writer began with a challenge. As a second-grade student, she struggled with reading and writing and was held back, eventually developing a strong resistance to English and literature. With the encouragement of her parents, teachers, professors, family, and mentors, she gradually discovered her confidence and appreciation for writing.

She went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree in General Studies with an emphasis in English and Health Studies from Texas Woman’s University. Her personal experiences with self-worth, anxiety, rejection, relationships, loss, faith, and emotional struggles became an important part of her growth as both a person and writer.

With encouragement from mentors Cassandra Lawrence and Janay Shandy, Kalandice eventually answered what she describes as a calling to write. More than two years later, her first book was published by Rare Books & Publishing. Encouraging Poetics is a heartfelt collection combining poetry, prayer, reflection, journaling, faith, and hope. Kalandice explores waiting on God, navigating difficult emotions, anxiety, love, temptation, transformation, loss, uncertainty, and the challenges of everyday life.

Rather than presenting perfect answers, the book reminds readers that it is okay to feel, to be uncertain, and to seek support from family, friends, therapists, counselors, and community. Its central message is one of encouragement, to keep going, remain connected, and trust through seasons of uncertainty.

Kalandice also illustrated the book’s butterfly-inspired cover herself. The butterfly represents transformation, while the surrounding imagery reflects her faith, passion, determination, and personal journey.

Readers interested in discovering Kalandice Thomas’s Encouraging Poetics can purchase the paperback on Amazon or connect with her directly through Instagram @encouragingpoetics and Facebook @encouragingpoetics.