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About the Author

I’m J.E. Harris—a lawyer, a writer, an interior decorator, and, of course, a Stepper. With over twenty years of experience as a corporate attorney specializing in employment law, I have had the privilege of working with several large corporations in the Twin Cities. Additionally, I instruct Business Law courses at various colleges and universities in the area.

Degrees and Certifications

I earned my Juris Doctor from the University of Minnesota Law School, following an undergraduate degree from Drake University. In addition to my legal background, I am a licensed interior decorator and a member of Certified Interior Decorators, International.

Passion for Stepping

I am an active participant in the Twin Cities Stepping Community and co-own StepWith2, L.L.C. Stepping has been a transformative journey for me, and it became the foundation for my debut novel, When You Step. Growing up in Rockford, Illinois, I eventually made the Twin Cities my home, where I live with my two beautiful daughters and my favorite Stepping Instructor.

Community Involvement

I believe in the importance of giving back to the community. I volunteer with lawyer organizations, and I am a proud and active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated.

Journey Into Writing

Truth be told, dancing has always been a part of my life. I studied classical ballet for twelve years and have explored every type of dance from salsa to hip-hop, line dancing, and ballroom. When I entered my forties, I sought a more “mature” dance environment that also allowed me to enjoy my favorite music.

How When You Step Came to Be

This led me to stepping, and four years later, When You Step was born. I felt the experiences I had in the stepping community needed to be shared in a creative and entertaining way. I decided to tell an exaggerated, emotional, and embellished version of my journey into the world of stepping. And this is just the beginning!

J. E. Harris
J. E. Harris
J. E. Harris

Gratitude

While I am the one who wrote the book, I would be remiss if I didn’t acknowledge those who helped me along the way.

  • To God, thank you for blessing me with a sound mind and the ability to write.
  • To my daughters, Jessica Grace and Jayna Isabel, thank you for your invaluable critiques and feedback.
  • To my stepping instructor, Dwight, thank you for believing in me and encouraging me to "just write it!"
  • To the incredible women in my life, Ella, DeAnn, Dawn, Kirstin, Ruby, Tasha, Val, Phyllis, Vandella, Jeaneane, Sondra, Heidi, and Theresa—your inspiration and joy have shaped my characters and enriched my world.
  • To Synthia Saint James, thank you for your kind words and support.
  • To Markie Bee, rest in peace, my editor extraordinaire, thank you for sharing your wisdom and expertise.
  • To Marty Majeske, my Omega Psi Phi brother, thank you for giving your artistic approval.

Grateful for Every Reader

Finally, thank you to everyone who has read and will read When You Step. I hope you find as much joy in reading it as I found in writing it. Enjoy the journey!

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