Born to the proud parents of Herman and Ernestine Page in Chicago, IL, Latonya is the youngest of seven children, two sisters, and four brothers. Her parents were married for 45 years and her mother died in 1991. Her childhood memories were dysfunctional like most black people, hampered by what was missing. Despite the bullying during grammar and high school, Latonya lived her life (Out loud and colorful) her way...and still does. Although her learning was hindered by bullies at Whistler Elementary and Corliss High. She became an avid reader of many genres. In the Music room in High school is where Latonya through all the fear, hurt and pain she endured, found her talent of being a Writer. Which was the best tool for mending her brokenness. She finished High school and attended DePaul University, although being a traditional student wasn’t her forte. Never satisfied with working for someone else Latonya always had a dream of becoming an Entrepreneur someday. She believed in her ability to write. Latonya followed her heart and continued to write in the early 90’s when she wrote her first manuscript and later several books. She always felt that her determination as a writer would have a profound impact on the Publishing World. She is doing what she loves at the age of 50. She realized early on that having multiple degrees does not have any merit on one’s depth, passion, and ability to write from the heart and reach the hearts of the masses. She is brilliant, smart, witty, self-taught and well versed on many subjects. From Pain to Prestige, Latonya desires to become the next World Renown Author. Contact: balkcomlatonya@yahoo.com ALSO BY LATONYA BALKCOM MA’AT 42 Plus GOD Spirit Led Approach To Parenting Spirit of Lesbianism within the Soul of a Prophetess From PAIN to PRESTIGE