The Chronicle’s Author Spotlight | D. Leon Stokes Shares a Lifetime of Wisdom Through His Books
Some authors write to entertain readers, while others write to leave a legacy. D. Leon Stokes belongs to the latter group. His books are rooted in real-life experiences, personal growth, and the values that shaped his character. Through storytelling, he hopes to encourage readers to live with purpose, integrity, and a commitment to lifelong learning.
Born in Robinsonville, Mississippi, John Stokes and his wife, Clara, moved to Michigan in 1950, settling in Lansing. This is where they would raise their family. Leon is the youngest of five siblings and credits much of his success to the lessons he learned observing his father. Watching his parents work tirelessly while advocating for fair treatment taught him perseverance, humility, and the importance of standing up for what is right. Those early experiences became the foundation for many of the stories he shares in his writing.
Leon’s first book, Are the Kids Okay? Life Lessons from a Great Man, was published in June 2021 as a tribute to his father. Each chapter shares a meaningful story from his father’s life, as well as Leon’s observations of his father as a young boy. The chapters conclude with a lesson readers can apply to their own lives. Stokes said the book is especially meaningful because not every child has the benefit of growing up with a positive father figure or mentor. By sharing his father's wisdom, he hopes to inspire young people and encourage adults to become role models in their own communities.
One lesson that has remained with Stokes throughout his life dates back to his days playing Pop Warner football. After a heartbreaking loss where the opponent was accused of cheating, Leon’s father told him that if someone had to cheat to win, then winning was not worth it. He should not worry about the loss, because in his life, he would “do a lot more than win football games”. That conversation helped him understand that his success should always be built on honesty and character rather than shortcuts, and he had what it takes to make that happen. Leon believes those values helped him focus on education and prepared him for opportunities far beyond athletics.
His second book, 50 Things to Do in a Lifetime: A Guide to Experiencing The Best of What Life Has to Offer, encourages readers to make the most of the time they have. Stokes explained that the idea was inspired by his wife, who encouraged him to take advantage of opportunities to enjoy life experiences when they are presented. The book challenges readers to identify meaningful goals that contribute to professional development, personal growth, better health, and lasting fulfillment. Rather than creating a simple bucket list, he encourages readers to pursue experiences that help them become better individuals.
Many of the goals in the book focus on continuous learning and healthy living. After retiring, Stokes taught himself to play the bass guitar to continue challenging his mind and learning new skills. He also encourages readers to maintain healthy lifestyles by exercising regularly, monitoring their health, and making decisions that improve their quality of life. Stokes believes that personal growth should continue throughout every stage of life.
Another theme found throughout his work is the importance of serving others. Stokes encourages readers to perform acts of kindness, support people in need, and look for opportunities to make a positive difference in someone else's life. He believes even small gestures can have a lasting impact on another person. His message reminds readers that success is measured not only by personal accomplishments but also by the lives we help along the way.
Today, Stokes continues to share his message through writing, speaking, and community engagement. His books encourage readers to embrace integrity, pursue lifelong learning, and live intentionally with purpose. Whether reflecting on the wisdom of his father or encouraging others to pursue new experiences, he hopes his work will inspire people of all ages to become the very best version of themselves. His legacy is not simply found in the books he has written, but in the lives he hopes to influence through their pages.
Learn More About D. Leon Stokes
Readers interested in learning more about D. Leon Stokes, his books, and his personal journey can visit his official publishing website, where they can read more about his biography, browse his publications, and learn about upcoming projects. His books, Are the Kids Okay? Life Lessons from a Great Man and 50 Things to Do in a Lifetime: A Guide to Experiencing The Best of What Life Has to Offer, are available through his website and other online book retailers. His first book is also available as an audiobook.
Stokes welcomes opportunities to connect with readers, book clubs, churches, schools, civic organizations, and community groups. He is available for speaking engagements and author presentations focused on leadership, personal growth, family values, and living a life of purpose. Additional information about his work can be found through his publishing website and social media platforms.
Connect with D. Leon Stokes
-Website: DLStokespublishing.com
-Facebook: @dleonstokes on Facebook
-Instagram: @dleonstokes on Instagram
-Email: info@dlstokespublishing.com
Whether you are looking for encouragement, practical life lessons, or inspiration to pursue your own goals, Stokes hopes his books will motivate readers to lead lives marked by integrity, purpose, and service to others.
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