There Was a Spirit is a work in the making for over eight years. The inspiration for the story of Najwa Jackson was born in the Chicago apartment of Karen E. Hodge around 1997. From the friendship of Kimberly Noelle and Karen E. Hodge came this haunting yet inspiring novel of promises, power and self realization.

In late 1999, writing of the book was placed on the back burner when Karen was faced with the discovery that her physical life was being interrupted by pancreatic cancer. In early 2000, during her last visit with Karen, Kimberly made a promise to her sister and friend. She promised Karen that she would finish this powerful story no matter how long the journey. On July 3, 2000, Karen E. Hodge made her transition from her physical body and became a spiritual force in completing this novel. In October 2004 There Was a Spirit was finally completed.

The journey of the author after the unexpected transition of Karen E. Hodge is almost parallel to the path of the story. This book is the result of a promise made in a hospital room in Washington D.C. and served as a source of healing for its author Kimberly Noelle.

There Was a Spirit is Kimberly’s first fictional novel. She is also the author of Break It Down Now! an inspirational guide to incorporating the art of Fraternity/Sorority stepping into a youth team building activities. In her spare time, she enjoys writing music, traveling, reading, collecting historical memorabilia and working in the community. Kimberly received her Bachelor of Arts Degree from Columbia College in Chicago and Master of Science Degree from Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism. She is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and resides in the Chicago area. Currently, Kimberly is working on the continuing story of Najwa Jackson and the women of Omega Pi Alpha.

A portion of the proceeds from the sale of “There Was A Spirit” will benefit the Karen E. Hodge Scholarship administered by the Chicago Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.