By: Joshua Finley
Donna Conrad is a multifaceted personality: an award-winning author, journalist, activist, and teacher. Her journey, much like her writing, is a tapestry of diverse experiences and passions. Growing up outside Los Angeles in the tumultuous 1960s, Donna found solace and purpose through literature, thanks to the guidance of a beloved high school English teacher. This pivotal influence steered her toward a career in journalism and education, where she thrived before discovering her true passion for storytelling.
Her debut memoir, House of the Moon: Surviving the Sixties, offers a raw and poignant glimpse into her formative years and tumultuous upbringing. Her latest endeavor, The Last Magdalene, is the first in a historical fiction series that reimagines the story of Mary Magdalene, positioning her as a courageous and independent figure in Biblical times. Through this series, Conrad aims to give voice to marginalized women and challenge traditional narratives. Since its release in April, the book has garnered significant attention, becoming a bestseller across multiple categories on Amazon.
Empowering Voices Through History
Donna’s passion for history and her commitment to giving voice to marginalized women marry harmoniously in The Last Magdalene. Through meticulous research and vivid storytelling, she unveils a narrative often overshadowed by patriarchal interpretations, showing how women in Judea during Mary Magdalene’s time possessed rights and autonomy that were systematically eroded by Roman occupation.
She explains, “This was a woman who was incredibly vibrant, and had the right to inherit property, to own her own property, to choose to be married or not to be married.” Donna’s work sheds light on the active goddess worship prevalent during that era, challenging conventional narratives and reclaiming the divine feminine from historical obscurity.
Principles Worth Preserving
Embedded within Donna’s narrative are three principles she fears America may lose amidst modern-day turmoil:
- Inclusion Over Exclusion
“The main principle which I see us losing in this country and perhaps in the world, is the need to make somebody else wrong for us to be right,” Donna shares. Rather than demonizing differing perspectives, she calls for empathy and understanding as the foundation of social interaction. She advocates for inclusivity and love above will, urging society to embrace differing perspectives with empathy and understanding. “It’s possible to disagree without demonizing,” she says. Donna believes that society can foster a culture of mutual respect and cooperation, where individuals feel valued and heard regardless of their differences.
- Honoring the Divine Feminine
In her exploration of history and mythology, Donna highlights the significance of honoring the feminine aspect of divinity. Drawing from archaeological evidence and historical research, she highlights the pivotal roles that priestesses and healers played in ancient societies. These women were not only spiritual leaders but also nurturers and caregivers, embodying qualities of compassion and wisdom. Donna advocates for a return to reverence for the divine feminine, recognizing its importance in restoring balance and harmony to society. - Resisting Tyranny with Courage
Through the lens of Mary Magdalene’s story, Donna emphasizes the importance of resisting tyranny and injustice. Inspired by the courage and resilience of historical figures, she encourages readers to find the strength to uphold their principles, even in the face of adversity. Mary Magdalene’s unwavering commitment to her beliefs serves as a powerful example of moral courage and conviction. Donna urges individuals to stand up against oppression and injustice, emphasizing that true progress often requires courage and sacrifice.
“You’re a human being. I’m a human being. We’re here,” she encourages. “We have a very short life. What can we do to make life better for everybody we come in contact with?”
Inspiring Change Through Storytelling
Donna Conrad’s journey from journalism to historical fiction embodies the transformative power of storytelling. Through her books, she entertains, educates, and empowers readers to reclaim their voices and stand up for what they believe in.
Learn more about Donna and get a copy of The Last Magdalene by visiting her website at DonnaConrad.com.
Published by: Nelly Chavez
