I am Theauthorktlove. It's a nom de plume, of course. I wrote a book, an ametuer novel about my life and history. I put it on this website. I plan to get the ancestry.com package to track my roots. I wanted to record the experience, just like with the book. I want to have something to help me remember, nay, feel the memories, the times. I want to take you with me. Come along...
I made a couple mistakes in the manuscript. The Central High Desegregation was in 1957, of course. I mistakenly wrote 1947. And when the family moved from San Francisco to Los Angeles, the family moved south, not north. Thank you Gloria for bringing it to my attention. I apologize for the historical inaccuracies. If I get the opportunity to produce another edition the corrections will be made.
Everybody has a story. This is mine and …yours. This is herstory (you know, like history) – an experience in urban drama that strikes a chord with anyone who has faced adversity and won out over seemingly insurmountable odds. This story begins long ago but quickly brings us to the present. Enjoy this fast paced, gritty drama based on my real-life story. Watch the infamous California gangs organize and meet their leaders, my uncles. Run through the chaotic streets of LA during the 1992 riots or flash a friend at “Freak Nic” in Hotlanta. Enjoy the Historically Black College/ University experience in “da kuntry” (believe me it is like no other) and lose yourself (sometimes you get in too deep) …then find yourself. Between these covers lies an adventure anyone can appreciate. How would you judge me? How do you judge yourself?
About the Author
The author Dr. Tianka R. Sheard Mitchell lives in Little Rock, Arkansas. She is originally from Compton, California where she spent her formative years until relocating to Arkansas to attend Philander Smith College in 1994. Mitchell graduated Philander, cum laude, with her Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education. She works as a Middle School teacher. She has earned her Master’s degree in Educational Leadership and has recently graduated with her doctorate degree in the same field. Both degrees are from Arkansas State University, Jonesboro. Her twin daughters are both practicing Registered Nurses earning their degrees at Bethune Cookman University in Daytona Beach, Florida. She has a young son in middle school. Mitchell dedicates her success to her “Boos”. She says without them, she would only have been what she was. They gave her the motivation to become much more. This book is as much their triumph as hers.
February 2025
I presented at the Critical Questions in Education conference at the DeSoto Hotel in Savannah, GA.
I graduated from Arkansas State University with my doctoral degree in Educational Leadership on Saturday, December 14, 2024.
I am officially DR. TIANKA R. SHEARD MITCHELL!
So you guys know I live in Arkansas, right? I've lived in Little Rock, the capital city, since 1994. I'd lived in Compton, California and surrounding suburbs, from childhood into my early adult life. Arkansas' seasons enchanted me! And since then the character of the people and places, and the magnificent landscapes have held me in thrall. I am going to share bits of travel and explorations as I go along, living my best life.
My cousin, Amanika and I, decided to take a quick little road trip to Hot Springs, Arkansas for a Spa Day. Its only a 45- minute drive from the capital to Hot Springs. Amanika was driving, of course, because I am a notoriously unreliable distance driver. I can get around town just fine, but I get sleepy and anxious on long drives (and YES! 45 minutes is long to me, hence the reputation ...).
Anyway, The City of Hot Springs has a colorful history dating back to 16th century . The Native Americans had always held the location in high esteem due to the natural hot , mineral, water springs, that occur naturally all over the site. It was a playground for the Gangsta's like Al Capone in the '30's and features many legendary restaurants, hiking trails at the National Park and uniquely features "Bathhouse Row". An ode to a bygone time. That's where were headed! Buckstaff - Bathhouse, here we come!
Philander Smith College has been a lifeline and built a lifetimes worth of extended family. My baby Jordan, graduated from my Alma Mater. It brings the phrase to mind...Each one, Reach one.
The Gamma Alpha Chapter at good 'ol PSC.
13 Reasons to be an AKA! Spring '97 That was our line name and my personal line name was The Pink Panther. I was a tail, #13. Miss my LS's! Even the ones missing from the pic.
Rachel Den Hollander was the first gymnast who came forward and reported sexual abuse by the USA Gymnastics doctor. #metoo
Women's March in Washington
Jan. 20,2018
The Movement began January 20, 2017
Click the link above to watch the short video. Swallow some truth, before you dig in.