RACHEL BERRY
was born Sarah Rachel Gaines in Newark New Jersey.
She grew up in Newark, East Orange, and Orange school systems. Rachel later moved to Virginia and is now a mother of 4 adults, wife, grandmother of 2 gorgeous girls, a published author & poet, motivational speaker, radio talk show host and a community leader.
She has been a government employee for 24 years.
As founder and president of a social community group, this artist juggles a full schedule. "Black Pearls United INC"(an African American sister-circle) was founded in 2000. For a short time "WOMB" (women of many blessings) a support group for single-mothers was also a program she founded in 2004.
Rachel is also an alumni member of Toastmasters International where she has served as Sergeant at Arms and earned her CTM (Competent ToastMaster.)
Mrs. Berry's speaking engagements include ILMW (The International League Of Muslim Women), Hampton Social Services, The Red Hat Society, Sixth House INC., to name a few.
As a wife and mother Rachel puts family first and enjoys life in Virginia. When she's not writing, she also enjoys reading, dining out, traveling and watching movies. She accredits her gain in blessings and achievements to her relationship and guidance from her creator, association with great women, positive family members, loyal friends, the upbringing of an amazing woman-her mother, and the support and love of her husband and children.
Rachel's book 'From The Heart And Heat Of Me' is a selection of poetry and prose on the many settings of life & love. The poem "Give Her A Chile, So She Know," holds a special tribute to single-mothers.
Berry's new release & novel 'Family Pictures' is the saga of two women from the same family but with different life styles, educational backgrounds and age groups. Though close, these two women unrepentantly face emotional challenges because of revealed family secrets that not only affect them but the people they call family. This story is a pictorial & literary ride into relationships, betrayal, hidden secrets, jealousy, revengeful relatives, patience, understanding, and self discovery.
Be on the look-out for Rachel Berry's upcoming novel in the winter of 2010
"Between The Tears And The Laughter."
