As we celebrate Be Kind to Editors and Writers Month, it’s only fitting that we highlight someone whose contributions to the literary world have been nothing short of extraordinary—Chandra Sparks Splond. An inspirational speaker, award-winning journalist, editor, author, and blogger, Chandra’s career is a testament to the power of words and the impact they can have on communities, especially in the Black literary space.
A Trailblazer in Journalism and Literature
Chandra’s journey in journalism and literature is marked by a series of accolades and achievements that speak to her talent and dedication. In both 2022 and 2024, she coordinated the Black History Month edition of The Birmingham Times, earning several national and state awards for her outstanding work. Her ability to curate meaningful and impactful content has solidified her as a prominent figure in the industry.
In 2017, Chandra’s young adult novel Make It Work was named Alabama’s Great Read, while her novel Spin It Like That was selected as a Popular Paperback for Young Adults by the Young Adult Library Services Association (YALSA). Her book The Pledge was also honored as a YALSA Quick Pick for Reluctant Readers, demonstrating her ability to resonate with younger audiences through her compelling storytelling.
Her work doesn’t stop there. Black Pearls Magazine recognized Chandra as a Legends & Leaders honoree in 2017 for her influential blog, Book of Splond (formerly known as Magic City Momma). This platform has allowed her to share her wisdom, experiences, and insights, further establishing her as a leader in the literary community.
A Versatile Editor with a Stellar Reputation
Beyond her work as an author, Chandra is a highly respected editor, having worked with some of the biggest names in the publishing industry. She’s the owner of West End Publishing, LLC, where she continues to provide top-tier editorial services. Her editorial expertise has also been sought after by prestigious publishers such as HarperCollins Christian, Random House, and Moody Publishers, to name a few.
Chandra’s experience extends to working as a consulting editor for Kensington Publishing’s BET Books/Arabesque romance line, and she has edited books for several New York Times, USA Today, and Essence bestselling authors. Her keen eye for detail and her ability to elevate a manuscript have earned her a stellar reputation in the industry.
A Leader and Inspiration
Chandra’s influence isn’t confined to her work behind the scenes. She has interviewed notable figures such as New York Times bestselling authors Karen Kingsbury and Kimberla Lawson Roby, the late Eric Jerome Dickey, singer Tamela Mann, and actress Meagan Good. These interviews reflect her deep connection to the literary and entertainment industries, as well as her ability to draw out the stories that matter.
Despite all her professional achievements, Chandra remains grounded in her faith and her roles as a child of God, wife, and mother. Her commitment to her family and her community is evident in everything she does, from her work at West End Publishing to her involvement in her local church, Forty-fifth Street Baptist Church.
A Legacy of Empowerment
As a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., and a recipient of the 2019 Orlean Beeson School of Education Learning for Life award, Chandra continues to inspire and empower those around her. Her story is one of perseverance, excellence, and faith—a true testament to the impact that one individual can have when they dedicate their life to their passion and purpose.
During this Be Kind to Editors and Writers Month, let’s take a moment to honor Chandra Sparks Splond for her incredible contributions to the literary world. Her work not only enriches our lives with powerful stories but also paves the way for future generations of writers and editors.
For more information or to connect with Chandra, you can reach her at chandra@chandrasparkssplond.com.
