Pieces of Me - Paperback

Kari Conley, known as K.C. and poetically as K.C. Poetically Speaking Conley, is a Texas-born writer whose work is rooted in resilience, healing, and truth. Born in Fort Hood, Texas to military parents and primarily raised by her mother, K.C. discovered early that writing would become her constant in an ever-changing world.

She began writing at eight years old, finding in poetry a sanctuary where her thoughts could exist freely-unfiltered and unapologetic. Her first publication came in elementary school when her poem "Colors," a reflection on slavery, was featured in a local Atlanta newspaper. Even then, her voice carried striking depth and courage.

At 18, she embraced motherhood, a life-changing role that strengthened both her character and her creative voice. Through middle and high school, writing remained her refuge during personal trials and growth. Though life pulled her away from the page for a season, the call to write never left her. Her return marked the beginning of a powerful creative resurgence.

K.C.'s work has been featured in the anthologies Fingertip Foreplay and Out of the Storm. She has appeared on multiple poetry podcasts and has hosted and co-hosted several of her own. Her performances have graced notable stages including the Apache Café and the Black Poetry Café Poetry Fest. Expanding beyond poetry, she has contributed to independent Baltimore-based magazines Trap Door and Trap Ink, showcasing her range and versatility.

With candid humor, K.C. often says she writes because she cannot afford therapy. In truth, writing has been her therapy-her healing ground, confidence builder, and liberation. Through every stanza and story, she writes not just to be heard, but to be free.

Writing did not just shape her voice.
Writing saved her.