WELCOME
MY JOURNEY AS AN INDIE WRITER
For many years I had wanted to write about my love of the dream world and how it had helped me to navigate life. But where to begin? Such a huge subject, I found it difficult to isolate the threads that I might want to explore. Though there was a quiet thought that kept asking me to begin with my brother's death. I did not want to revisit this but nor could I ignore the intensity of the feeling. So I followed this feeling and the story of how I dream with the dying emerged, and this took me into corners of myself that were new to me. And though death is a sombre subject, ultimately this process proved to be beautifully enlightening, and a kindness to me.
In beginning my journey as a writer I encountered the world of self-publishing. I was fascinated by this and felt it would best suit the introvert in me. But more than this, I felt it would give me a chance to truly speak in an authentic way. I liked this idea and creating my first book, as an indie writer, was a great experience. It allowed me to bring into life something that was immensely precious to me.
I completed every step of the process myself which was a steep, and often frustrating, learning curve. Though ultimately this proved to be a liberation. When I pressed 'publish' that very first day, it freed something within me. Not one word had been read by another, not even by the people I trusted most in this world. But this was the way I wanted to do it; I needed to. It was my way. I needed to stand by myself and allow the story to flow, in just the way it wanted to. To speak truthfully and without any input from others. Being an indie writer allowed me the experience of standing on the edge, and jumping. Of exposing the twists and turns of my dream life as honestly as I was able to. And this was a challenge, yet also a beautiful gift.
I had never considered pursuing the traditional publishing route; not because I think this path is without merit, I don't. But because I wanted to write in the most transparent way I could. And for this, I had to do it alone.
Dreaming has been my great friend as I have made my way through this life. Always there, always a guiding hand, and always a cauldron of change. And I sincerely hope that anyone who encounters my book may get something from my words, just as I have done so from many others.
Julie
A Review from Jeyran Main - Review Tales Magazine: In Death Walking, Julie Winifred offers a poignant exploration of the intersection between dreams and the experience of loss. With a unique lens, she delves into her personal encounters in the dreaming world, where she connects with both people and animals who are facing the end of their lives.
Winifred's writing is imbued with a sense of compassion and introspection, inviting readers to contemplate the often-taboo subject of death. Her vivid descriptions of dream experiences create an ethereal atmosphere, allowing readers to feel the weight of grief and the beauty of connection even in the face of mortality.
Throughout the book, Winifred seeks not only to share her experiences but also to provide solace and understanding for those navigating their own journeys of loss. Her candid reflections and moments of humor in the midst of sorrow offer a refreshing balance, making the narrative both heart-wrenching and uplifting.
Death Walking stands as an honest exploration of friendship, love, and the enduring ties that transcend life and death. It serves as a reminder that even in grief, there can be moments of profound beauty and connection.
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A Review from Robin’s Review-Phyllis: In Death Walking: Dream Journeys into Death, Forgiveness and Healing, Julie Winifred offers a profound exploration of dreams as a pathway to understanding death, forgiveness, and healing. With a personal touch, Winifred shares her experiences of dreaming with the dying and how these dreams have guided her towards greater emotional and spiritual insight.
The book reflects Winifred's deep appreciation for the dream world, aiming to convey the transformative power of dreams. Through her insights, readers are invited to explore the potential of dreaming to facilitate personal growth and healing. Death Walking is a thought-provoking read that highlights the remarkable gifts that dreams can offer in the journey towards forgiveness and self-discovery.