ABOUT ME

Hi, I’m Denise Pimentel, born and raised in that unforgettable New York State of Mind! Specifically? Bensonhurst; Brooklyn. These days, I live in the suburbs of New Jersey, but as the saying goes: You can take the girl out of New York, but you can’t take the New York out of the girl.

I’m a writer, teacher, artist, and lifelong lover of storytelling. People often describe my writing as witty, raw, and real; a voice that captures both depth and humor. My recent work focuses on the transformative power of God: how He pulls us out from the deepest roots of suffering and brings us back into the light.

In addition to writing, I’m also a visual artist. I paint, sketch, and create pyrography pieces. I’m endlessly inspired by the art and philosophy of the Renaissance, an era where creativity and thought changed the world.

I’ve been writing since I was a little girl in elementary school. Today, I’m proud to say I’ve just completed my memoir, Unshaken: A True Story of a Bleeding Mind, Broken Body, and Buried Grief — a project that took eight years to complete. It explores my journey through bipolar disorder, stroke recovery, motherhood, and ultimately, unshakable faith. You can also find my earlier reflections on my blog, thepeacefultragedy.com, where I’ve shared pieces of my personal and spiritual journey.

Though teaching and motherhood had taken up much of my focus in recent years, a life-altering stroke in late 2024 led me to take a step back from the classroom. While recovering, I was given the time; and clarity, to finally finish Unshaken. I’m now actively pursuing publication, while also working on a 30-day devotional companion to support others walking through similar battles.

Writing is how I process life. I write when I’m happy. I write when I’m grieving. I write to teach, to heal, and to connect. Sometimes, I even write while jogging, oddly enough, that’s when great inspirations seem to come. I hold a B.A. in Elementary Education and History and an M.A. in Liberal Studies with a focus in American Studies from Kean University. My thesis? Women who served in the Vietnam War; yes, they were there, and their stories matter.

When I have free time, you’ll find me creating art or chasing dreams that were once put on pause. I was once ready to sell my artwork at the Somerville Street Fair, but the pandemic had other plans. I have sold many over time on social media platforms. Life may shift, but the passion never dies.

Once Unshaken is officially published, it will be available here and on major platforms, including an audiobook edition for those who love to “read” on the go, but also as a teacher I know for some audiobooks bring pages to life for readers who struggle. A cinematic trailer and themed merchandise will also be available ; not just to promote the book, but to amplify its greater message: there is hope. Whether you're navigating mental illness, stroke recovery, or any life-altering challenge, you can overcome; with God’s help.

Proceeds from Unshaken will be shared with two faith-based organizations: one focused on stroke recovery, and the other on mental health advocacy. Because this book isn’t just a story; it’s a mission.

EXPERIENCE

Upwork Global Inc.-Freelance Writer

Creators Never Cogs: Victory Over Vice Co-author with R.S. Mills & Meade Adams (Kindle edition)

Personal Blog: www.thepeacefultragedy.com    

Education Dynamics, Hoboken N.J. (Position-Freelance Writer)