Bio: D’Norgia Taylor

D’Norgia Taylor began, as a serious writer, 40 years ago.  Although her favorite authors include Maya Angelou, Toni Morrison, Kurt Vonnegut and Octavia Butler, Taylor’s preferred genre is science fiction/fantasy.  The film, Portrait of Jenny, which she saw as a child, gave her a taste of science fiction/time travel that grew into a passion.  She combined her talent and love of writing into the debut of her first novel String Beans and Candy Canes.

Originally, from the Midwest, Taylor’s writing career began in college, with a great interest in English and Journalism.  During that time, she began technical writing for local publications and medical programs.  Over the next few years, she continued freelance writing with her own company Designer Publications, creating brochures, newspaper articles, billboards, and grant proposals for local politicians, small businesses and non-profits.

In 1986, Taylor was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and her dreams of writing were put on hold due to complications with her vision.  Taylor says, “When I was diagnosed with MS and my vision was impaired, I began to pay more attention to everyday life.  Especially peculiar things stood out.  I would see someone standing at a bus stop and make up a whole life for that person in my head and  I started writing the ideas down.”

She later regained most of her vision and began writing again as a hobby.  After speaking with friends, she decided it was time to return to writing seriously, once again.  Six years ago she joined the Maya Angelou Writers’ Guild, which has prepared her for this new science fiction work.

Taylor is the mother of two adult children and lives in Portland, Oregon.  She continues to be a strong role model for people living with MS and assists people who call her for help. In addition she’s worked as a university adjunct professor (business) and now as Director of senior services for a non-profit organization … and she writes stories everyday.

© Copyright D'Norgia Taylor. 2007