Noreen Ann Jenkins Published Author & Poetess

LAKE WALES - Noreen Ann Jenkins has been interested in poetry ever since she was a young girl.

News Chief/Misty Rogers

In May, Jenkins' first book of poems, "You'll Learn to Love Me," was released in book stores. The Lake Wales resident includes 56 poems in her first book, which touches on subjects related to hope, love and angels. The book includes such poems as "If You Really and Truly Love Me," "Prisoner of Love" and "A Poem for Lovers."

"This has been my dream since I was a teenager - to have a book published," she said. "I finally got my dream come true."

Initially, Jenkins wanted to name the book either "Angels Touch" or "Heart of an Angel." However, she said, the final and chosen title stood out to her and her publishing company, PublishAmerica, agreed.

The book is dedicated to Jenkins' boyfriend of eight years, Garry Snyder. In fact, the angel that appears on the book's cover was a gift Snyder gave Jenkins last year.

"He's been really good to me," Jenkins, 48, said. "He's always been supportive. He's been right there with me and beside me and I can't find no better man than him."

Snyder also helped Jenkins compile her book.

"It's the beginning of the happiest time of her life," he said. "It's a great book ... She's been on cloud nine ever since (it was published)."

Jenkins said she enjoys writing about nature, love and any subject that inspires people.

"I'm good at putting myself in someone else's shoes and writing a poem about it," she said.

The Columbia City, Ind. native said she plans to write more poems and hopes to have another book of poetry published. She also hopes to write a book of poetry with Snyder, who also enjoys writing poems.

Jenkins' book, "You'll Learn to Love Me," is sold in book stores and at www.publishamerica.com, www.barnesandnoble.com, www.amazon.com, www.borders.com and www.booksamillion.com. The book is also available in Germany, France, the United Kingdom and Japan.

jennifer.whalen@newschief.com