Meet Je’Quita Johnson | Children’s Book Author – Writing Coach – Positivity Advocate – Ms. Curvy Atlanta

We had the good fortune of connecting with Je’Quita Johnson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Je’Quita, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
As a former teacher, I was driven to start my business by a desire to make a positive impact on the lives of others. I recall a specific moment when I was searching for books on a particular topic to share with my students but couldn’t find anything suitable. This sparked an idea – what if I wrote a book myself?

This experience ignited my passion for creating resources to help others, particularly children, find their voice, build their confidence, and shine their light. As a children’s book author, I aim to craft stories that inspire, educate, and empower young minds.

Through my work, I aim to help children develop a strong sense of self, overcome challenges, and cultivate resilience. I strive to provide tools and support to enable them to grow into confident, compassionate, and capable individuals.

Ultimately, my business is built on empathy, kindness, and a deep commitment to helping others. I am proud to be a part of a community that values the well-being and success of all individuals, and I look forward to continuing to make a positive impact through my work.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My professional journey has been anything but linear, and that’s exactly what makes it uniquely mine. I began my career as a teacher, seeking a resource that could help me address the needs of my students. When I couldn’t find the right book, I decided to create it myself. This marked the beginning of my path as a published children’s book author in 2014.
Over time, I transitioned into the role of a behavior intervention specialist, a change that deeply influenced my writing. Working directly with children, I observed the social and emotional challenges they faced daily—issues around self-esteem, confidence, and emotional regulation. I realized that social-emotional learning (SEL) needed more focus, and so I made it my mission to create stories that could empower children to understand and love themselves.
What sets me apart from others is the heart behind my work. My stories are not just fiction—they are deeply rooted in my own experiences. Every character, every lesson, comes from my own journey and observations. I believe that our stories are powerful because no one else can share them in the same way. Your experiences shape your voice, and no one can tell your story better than you. That’s why I encourage others to share their stories—because no one else can write them.
As I reflect on how I got to where I am today, I am incredibly grateful for the support system that has carried me along the way. I couldn’t have done this without the unwavering support of my amazing husband, Daniel Johnson. He’s not only my partner in life but also in business. Many people have heard about me through him, and his belief in me has been a constant source of strength. His encouragement has been instrumental in helping me push through tough times. Beyond him, I am surrounded by a network of people who believe in my mission, and their support has been invaluable.
Of course, I cannot ignore the role that faith has played in this journey. As a woman of faith, I know that I am guided by a higher power. Prayer, seeking direction from the Lord, and trusting in His plan have all been crucial to my perseverance. I believe that when you step out in faith to pursue your dreams, God will provide the people and resources you need.
The challenges of being a small business owner have not been easy, particularly when it comes to finances. It’s true what they say: “It takes money to make money.” There have been moments when I’ve had to get creative with resources or figure out ways to stretch a limited budget. But every obstacle has taught me a lesson in resilience and resourcefulness. I’ve learned to trust the process, stay focused on my mission, and keep moving forward.
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that it’s okay to follow your dreams, no matter how daunting they may seem. Starting can be the hardest part, but I can tell you firsthand that once you take that first step, everything else falls into place. Your story is yours alone, and no one else can tell it quite like you. If you have a desire to write, to create, or to share your story, don’t let anything hold you back. Find someone who can guide you, take that leap of faith, and trust that the right people and resources will come.
I want the world to know that your story matters. It’s never too late to begin, and the world needs to hear what only you can share. It may not always be easy, but with faith, determination, and the support of those around you, you can achieve what you’ve set out to do. Keep going, and don’t let fear stop you from living out your purpose.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Day 1: History, Culture, and Downtown Atlanta
Morning:

Breakfast at The Flying Biscuit Café – Start your day with a delicious Southern-style breakfast. Known for its signature biscuits and grits, it’s a great introduction to Atlanta’s comfort food scene.
Visit The King Center – Head to the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park. This is a must-see for anyone interested in history, with the Ebenezer Baptist Church, King’s childhood home, and the King Center offering an insightful and moving experience.
Georgia State Capitol – Walk around the Georgia State Capitol, a beautiful building that’s rich in history and architecture.
Afternoon:

Lunch at Ponce City Market – Head to Ponce City Market for a laid-back yet vibrant experience. It’s a hub of food, shopping, and culture, with many restaurants, rooftop bars, and even a fairground (Skyline Park).
Explore Ponce City Market – After lunch, you can shop, stroll through the rooftop park, or check out the unique boutiques in the market.
Evening:

Dinner at The Optimist – This seafood restaurant offers a great vibe and delicious food. It’s a trendy spot with excellent cocktails.
Atlanta BeltLine – After dinner, take a stroll along the Atlanta BeltLine, an urban path that’s perfect for walking or biking. There are lots of art installations and bars along the way, so you can stop for a drink or just take in the view.
Day 2: Relaxation, Wine, and Celebrity Homes
Morning:

Breakfast at West Egg Café – Head to West Egg Café for a great breakfast with Southern twists on your favorites.
Celebrity Home Tour – Book a celebrity home tour via Groupon (or another tour provider). There are many in the area, and it’s a fun way to see the homes of some of Atlanta’s famous residents. You can also see the homes of the city’s most iconic celebrities.
Midtown Atlanta – Explore the Midtown area. It’s home to some of the city’s best parks, art, and food. You can stop at Piedmont Park or the Atlanta Botanical Garden.
Afternoon:

Lunch at Busy Bee Cafe – A local institution serving up Southern comfort food. It’s especially known for fried chicken and collard greens!
Chateau Elan Winery and Resort – Head north to Chateau Elan for a luxurious spa and winery experience. You can take a wine tour, enjoy tastings, and relax in their beautiful spa. Make sure to book in advance via Groupon for any discounts or special packages.
Evening:

Dinner at The Iberian Pig – Located in Decatur, this spot offers great tapas, Spanish wines, and a lively atmosphere.
Nightcap at The Roof at Ponce City Market – Head back to Ponce City Market and enjoy drinks at the rooftop bar. It’s a fun place with stunning views of the city.
Day 3: Arts, Culture, and Dining
Morning:

Breakfast at The Atlanta Breakfast Club – Try a classic Southern breakfast with a modern twist.
Visit the Atlanta History Center – Spend your morning here to dive deeper into Atlanta’s rich history. The center includes exhibitions on the Civil War, the Southern folk art collection, and the Swan House.
Afternoon:

Lunch at The Varsity – For a classic Atlanta experience, head to The Varsity, an iconic fast food joint that has been around since 1928. It’s all about burgers, hot dogs, and fries here.
Atlanta Botanical Garden – Visit the nearby Atlanta Botanical Garden for a peaceful afternoon of nature and beauty. If your friend loves plants, it’s a serene and picturesque place to explore.
Explore the High Museum of Art – Atlanta’s premier art museum has a world-class collection of contemporary and classic art.
Evening:

Dinner at Gunshow – For an unforgettable dining experience, Gunshow in Glenwood Park offers an innovative approach to Southern cuisine. Dishes are served dim-sum style, so you can sample multiple flavors in one meal.
Drinks at 8Arm – Wrap up your trip with drinks at 8Arm, a cool bar in Atlanta known for its creative cocktails and unique vibe.
Extra Recommendations:
Atlanta Food Tours – If you’re a foodie, you can check out food tours (available on Groupon) in neighborhoods like Little Five Points or Midtown, where you can try local dishes and learn about Atlanta’s culinary scene.
Skyview Atlanta – A ride on the Ferris wheel in downtown Atlanta will give you a stunning view of the city skyline.
Krog Street Market – For more food, shopping, and local finds, Krog Street Market is a must-see spot in the Inman Park area.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to the incredible individuals who have supported me on my journey.
To my amazing sisters, Chevini Dill and Mariana Glass, thank you for being my rock, confidant, and biggest cheerleaders. Your love and encouragement mean the world to me!
To my sister from another mother, Charmane Guyton, you’re more than just a friend – you’re family. Thank you for being a constant source of support and inspiration.
To my cousin Zakiyyah Langford, you’re an integral part of my crew, and I appreciate your love and encouragement.
I also want to thank the fantastic businesses supporting me, including Salon Life Spa and Kushions Plus Size.
Last but not least, Daniel Johnson, you’re my biggest supporter, my partner in every sense of the word. Thank you for being my rock, my motivator, and my everything.
Thank you all for being part of my village. I’m honored to have you in my life!

Website: https://www.jequita.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jequitazacharyjohnson/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jequita.zachary

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@jequitazacharyjohnson7010

Image Credits
Extended Plus Network and Shoott Photography
Eric Nikkon
Big Muva
Kushions Studios
Sky Love Images