Author Janell Pearson, in her latest book "For the Strength of Harlem-Plĕas Tusant Pearson," brings to light the life of an unsung hero intertwined with the histories of some of the most iconic figures of the 20th century, including Malcolm X and Muhammad Ali. The biography memoir delves into the life of her father, Plĕas Tusant Pearson, a pivotal figure in Harlem’s vibrant history, whose story had remained largely untold until now.
Born and raised in the heart of Harlem, Janell Pearson herself is no stranger to pioneering endeavors. At just 25 years old, she embarked on her entrepreneurial journey by opening T.M.A. Enterprises Inc. on the bustling 125th Street. The business, which provided essential office support services, thrived under her leadership for a decade before she transitioned to the corporate sector, where she continued to excel with Fortune 500 companies.
Janell’s accomplishments have been recognized alongside notable figures such as Whitney Houston and Rev. Calvin O. Butts III, earning her accolades from influential leaders like the Honorable Dorothy Irene Height of the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) and Dorothy Pittman Hughes.
Today, Janell is the force behind Strength Point Publishing Inc. (SPP), a boutique firm dedicated to uncovering and sharing the powerful, yet often overlooked stories of community figures. SPP specializes in a variety of genres, from nonfiction and children’s books to poetry, all aimed at highlighting the deeds and lives of everyday heroes.
"For the Strength of Harlem" not only answers questions about the man between Malcolm X and Muhammad Ali in the famous 1963 photograph by Howard Bingham but also paints a vivid picture of Plĕas Tusant Pearson’s multifaceted life. From his early years in Birmingham, Alabama, during the height of racial tensions to his influential role in Harlem's social movements during the '50s and '60s, the book explores his various roles as a community activist, entrepreneur, and chef. Known for founding movements and even running a private limousine service for celebrities visiting the Apollo Theater, Plĕas's legacy is rich with contributions to the African American community.
Janell Pearson’s memoir is an inspiring tribute to her father’s enduring spirit and a reminder of the impact one individual can have on their community and beyond. In her father’s story, readers find a profound narrative of resilience, activism, and the unsung heroism that shaped not only Harlem but also the broader African American experience.
With this publication, Janell Pearson continues to inspire as she brings to the forefront the stories of those who have shaped history from the shadows. "For the Strength of Harlem-Plĕas Tusant Pearson" promises to be an essential read for anyone interested in the untold stories of American heroes.