Poetry, fiction, and a new chapter in faith-based nonfiction. Welcome to the books and bookshelf of K. I. Dean.
Explore my books ↗Previously published as Kayla I. Shown-Dean
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Inspired by Johnny Mercer’s “The Autumn Leaves,” this collection explores nature, Christian faith, relationships, social problems, and releasing the past. Free verse and experiments with formal poetry unfold across four sections: “The Falling Leaves,” “Of Red and Gold,” “The Sunburned Hands,” and “Old Winter’s Song.”
View on Amazon ↗Kennan has been held prisoner in his parents’ attic for over thirty years. Born unable to speak and with a physical disfigurement, he has been confined in the name of protection. When his mother dies, his brother Karl becomes his caretaker. But Karl’s wife delivers an ultimatum: his family or his brother. Who will Karl choose? And will Kennan ever be free? Until the family secret is released, the Wesleys will forever be Muted.
View on Amazon ↗After a worldwide societal fallout, Judson, Rune, and Abel have grown up isolated on a Caribbean island with their father. When food runs low, he decides they must return to the dangerous mainland. The siblings disagree—and fight with a volatile sibling ferocity. A story of family, chaos, and the limitations of our own fears. Book one of an unfinished series.
View on Amazon ↗Kayla is working on a faith-based nonfiction book with guided journaling. More details will be shared here as the project develops.
K. I. Dean is an author, English professor, and mother of two based in Northwest Arkansas. Previously published as Kayla I. Shown-Dean, she writes poetry and fiction and is now working on a faith-based nonfiction book that includes guided journaling.
Her books include Autumn Leaflets: A Collection of Poetry, Muted, and Ferocity. She holds a master’s degree in English from Arkansas State University and spent two years teaching English in China. Her Christian faith, love of language, and experiences as a teacher and mother help shape her writing.
When she isn’t teaching or writing, Kayla enjoys reading, a good cup of tea, studying Korean, practicing Kuk Sool Won, and painting pottery. She also loves being involved in her church and spending time with her children, friends, and dog.
A personal collection of favorite reads, with my own thoughts on the stories that stayed with me.
Browse my favorite books ↗Earlier reflections on faith, family, travel, and the lessons found along the way. These archived posts are a glimpse into past chapters of my life.
Visit the archives ↗Have a question about a book, or simply want to say hello?
