Zaneta Varnado Johns, also known as Zan Johns, has distinguished herself as a beacon of literary talent, with her voice resonating powerfully across the landscape of contemporary poetry. A four-time bestselling author and a nominee for the prestigious Pushcart Prize in Poetry, Johns has consistently captivated audiences with her mastery of words and profound emotional depth. Her journey into the realm of literary acclaim began with her debut book, "Poetic Forecast," which soared to #1 on Amazon's Bestseller List in six categories in 2020, heralding her as a force of creative expression.
Following the success of her debut, Johns released her second poetry collection, "After the Rainbow," in 2022, further establishing her as a prominent voice in poetry. Her collaborative contributions in the Women Speakers Association’s international bestsellers, including "Voices of the 21st Century: Resilient Women Who Rise and Make a Difference" (2021), "Voices of the 21st Century: Conscious Caring Women Who Make a Difference" (2022), and "Voices of the 21st Century: Women Who Transform the World" (2023), have showcased her ability to inspire and make a difference through the power of written word.
Johns' dedication to the poetry community is evident in her role as a co-editor of the "Social Justice Inks" anthology (2022) and her service as an editor with the Fine Lines Literary Journal. She also supports emerging and esteemed poets globally as an administrator for the Passion of Poetry online platform. With her works featured in over fifty anthologies and international literary publications, Johns' poetry serves as a beacon of hope and a testament to the transformative power of sharing one's truth with grace and light.
A native of Hammond, Louisiana, Johns' journey took her to the University of Colorado, where she not only pursued her education but also embarked on a twenty-nine-year administrative career, culminating in her role as the lead human resources officer. Her retirement in 2007 came after being honored as one of the University of Colorado's Women Who Make a Difference, marking the beginning of a new chapter in her literary endeavors. Johns now calls Westminster, Colorado, her home.
Her latest work, "Encore: A Collection of Poetry," transcends the conventional boundaries of poetry to offer a symphony of emotion and a reflective exploration of the human condition. Through "Encore," Johns invites readers into a world where each poem is a beacon of insight, challenging and inspiring with its authenticity and heartfelt examination of life's complexities.
Zaneta Varnado Johns' literary contributions have not only earned her accolades but also solidified her status as a pivotal figure in contemporary poetry. With "Encore," she continues to inspire a global audience, reminding us of the enduring power of poetry to evoke change, inspire hope, and celebrate our shared humanity.
Zaneta Varnado John's Website: https://www.zanexpressions.com/