Today we’d like to introduce you to Dr. Tierra Graves.
Hi Dr. Tierra, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My story is one of pain to purpose. Where I am today was a long journey of ups and downs, mistakes and chances, lessons and failures, hinderances and hopes, uncertainty and victory. But it didn’t happen quickly. My story has allowed me to be a 10-time published author where I advocate for mental health and provide grief resources. Over the years, I learned how to push and pressed through life challenges leaning and depending on the Lord. My relationship with Jesus Christ is my strength. I hope you will learn from my story of pain to purpose that life can exist on the other side of the hardships. Success comes through struggles, but struggles don’t last always. When I change my mindset and the way I view situations, darkness had to flee and the light began to shine for the world to see the beauty from the ashes. Healing to a daily process that takes dedication and commitment. I learned to be honest with myself about my shortcomings and educated myself in ways that would cultivate healing and different outcomes for my life. Change started with me once I accepted that there were areas in my life that needed to change for the betterment of my health and wholeness as a Christian woman. As you read, open your mind and heart to what is possible with God and know that pain does make room for purpose to evolve.
Bio:
Dr. Tierra Graves was born in Washington, DC. She currently holds a bachelor’s degree in English from Trinity Washington University. She also holds a master’s degree in Secondary Education and a master’s degree in teaching English to Speakers of other Languages, from Grand Canyon University. She completed a summer course (2023) at Goucher College, where she obtained a certificate/license to teach Advance Placement Courses in English. She completed a 120-hour certification course with World TESOL Academy in July 2024, where she obtained a certificate to teach English as a Second Language. In August 2024 she completed a 25-week Grief course under Canaan LandSteward University and is now a license Grief Specialist Coach. She holds an Honorary Doctorate of Humanities (2025) from Vermaro Christian University.
Dr. Graves is a 10-time published author. She published Prism of Me (2020), A New Twist on Old Traditions (2020), A New Twist on Old Traditions Workbook (2020), Depression Before Tea: Journey A to Z (2021), My Testimony A Declaration of Deliverance (2024), Breathe Again (2025) with Christian Living Books, Inc. She published, I Lived to Tell It Testimonial Anthology (2023), alongside of 11 women of God as a Co-Author with In Due Seasons Publishing Company. She published Rising Through the Pain: Prayers and Devotionals for Joy Restoration Anthology (2025) with LUI Media. Her bonus book is The Record (2015) which was published with Trinity Washington University.
She has supported other first-time authors with their book projects and has written the forward to When Did You Know It Was God (2023), and I Lived to Tell Anthology Vol.2 My Story His Testimony the Power of Forgiveness (2024).
Dr. Graves has taught English for grades 6-12 with District of Columbia Public Schools for the past six years. She has also taught Biology, Art, and Spanish courses on the middle and high school levels. Currently she works as an Adjunct Professor at the University of the Potomac teaching ESL-English as a Second Language, Early Childhood Development, and English Composition Courses to international and domestic students.
She is a dedicated member of the Household of Faith Ministries where she has been since 2012. Her relationship with God is her strength. She is a motivational speaker and liturgical dancer where she uses her testimony of overcoming obstacles to uplift others through her relationship with the Lord and the word of God. She occasionally teaches bible study classes and is the church secretary.
After many years of battling with depression and grief, she began writing to express the pain about which she often could not speak. In finding herself through her prayer life and writing, she is able to be a light and an example of hope for others. I knew at a young age that I wanted to be a teacher and a writer. My dreams continue to unfold daily as I continue to walk in my purpose on purpose. My books have helped me heal in ways I never could have imagined. Being an author has also opened many doors and allowed for the opportunity to speak openly about my struggles and show the glory of God to others through my testimony. I have been invited to several conferences and workshops. I was a guest speaker and liturgical dancer for the I Lived to Tell It Deliverance and healing retreat in Charleston, WV (2024). I was a guest speaker for I Lived to Tell it Breaking Cycles and Bridging Gaps Conference in Flint; MI (2023) and I Lived to Tell It Empowerment Conference in South Point, OH (2023). I continue to use my voice and my gift of dance to bring encouragement and inspiration to all who get to experience my gifts.
I have been recognized on several online platforms and have been a guest speaker: NewBeing Queen Talk Show, Women Business Connect Talk, Conversations with Celena Podcast Talk Show, Blossoms of my Life Radio Show, Voyage Dallas Magazine June 2024 Issue, Women’s House of Love and Hope Virtual Prayer Meeting, Gleaming Dreamers Magazine Summer 2024 Issue, Emergence Radio Talk, University of the Potomac ESL-Poetry Reading Day (March 2024), Youth Building Conversations, Praying and Preaking Podcast, Amazon Live, and Gleaming Dreamers April 2025 Issue. In addition, my most recent awards are: Teacher of the Month, MacFarland Middle School (2022), Household of Faith Ministries Consistent Contributor (Tithing) Award (2021), Household of Faith Ministries Certificate of Appreciation (2019).
Ms. Graves writes poetry, short stories, essays and so much more. Stay connected with the Author on Facebook and Instagram (Booksbytea). She leads a Facebook Group (grief and depression awarness) where she continues to share her story and testimony about how God showed up in her life in moments when she thought life was over. The grief group currently has over 300 members where she gives daily encouragement. Leading the group continues to help Dr. Tierra Graves grow and mature in her gifts and calling.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Since the launch of Booksbytea, I’ve been gaining much support and success. Along the way there have been many health challenges, life changes, and obstacles to overcome. Through my faith and determination, I continue to use my voice and writing abilities to help encourage others despite what I am going through. It hasn’t been a smooth road but it has been a rewarding road to journey through these past few years. I am so grateful for all that God has allowed me to accomplish and achieve through my ministry and business.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Dr. Graves is a 10-time published author. She published Prism of Me (2020), A New Twist on Old Traditions (2020), A New Twist on Old Traditions Workbook (2020), Depression Before Tea: Journey A to Z (2021), My Testimony A Declaration of Deliverance (2024), Breathe Again (2025) with Christian Living Books, Inc. She published, I Lived to Tell It Testimonial Anthology (2023), alongside of 11 women of God as a Co-Author with In Due Seasons Publishing Company. She published Rising Through the Pain: Prayers and Devotionals for Joy Restoration Anthology (2025) with LUI Media. Her bonus book is The Record (2015) which was published with Trinity Washington University.
She has supported other first-time authors with their book projects and has written the forward to When Did You Know It Was God (2023), and I Lived to Tell Anthology Vol.2 My Story His Testimony the Power of Forgiveness (2024).
I started my brand Booksbytea in 2019. I specialized in writing and educating my audiences on topics that seemed to go unnoticed. Writing is a way to heal from those areas that sometimes are difficult to openly speak on. I write to uplift, inspire, and bring awarness. I also enjoy supporting others by either featuring them in my books or writing for their books. Being an author creates a community of its’ own where we can learn from one another and support one another in ways other than book sales. I am set apart from others because I understand my purpose is greater than the cost. Writing is a ministry. It’s my calling. Writing allows me to witness and teach others about Jesus Christ and share my story of pain to purpose.
Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
Upcoming Event with Dr. Delores Henderson:
Congratulations Honorees!
Prestigious Nominees, we are excited to host, honor and celebrate you at this year’s Authors Ball & Awards Dinner, in Washington, DC🏆
I am excited to be receiving and Author Award on March 28,2026
Pricing:
- Prism of Me $10
- Breath Again $10
- Depression Before Tea $10
- My Testimony A Declaration of Deliverance $10
- A New Twist on Old Traditions $10
Contact Info:
- Instagram: Booksbytea
- Facebook: Booksbytea
- LinkedIn: Dr. Tierra Graves
- Youtube: Booksbytea
