Larry Wilson Jr., known as Dapharoah69, transforms from homelessness to literary stardom on his terms, selling over a million books and inspiring millions globally with his works.
United States, 11th Jun 2024 – Introduction: A Remarkable Literary Journey: Larry Wilson Jr., also known by his pen name Dapharoah69, has traversed an extraordinary path from homelessness to becoming an influential bestselling author. When he received his third rejection from publishers two decades ago, he decided to do it himself and succeeded. Over a 24-year journey, he has sold over a million books without a marketing or PR team, just sheer word of mouth, and captivated more than 80 million readers online around the world. His latest book, “The Law of Beasts Book 1 – Act 1: Khovahsh,” released in March 2024, and the “Special Edition,” (available in July) has garnered five-star reviews and prestigious nominations. Wilson’s story is one of resilience, creativity, and impact, making him a prominent figure in contemporary literature.
Early Struggles and First Publications
Wilson’s literary journey began under challenging circumstances. In 1998, while experiencing incarceration and mourning the tragic death of his best friend Chad Render, he penned the “The Law of Beasts” series at the age of 21. His first publication, “Voices From Within,” an anthology co-edited with Charles White, was selected as Body Positive Magazine’s Book of the Month in 2000. This early recognition set the stage for a prolific career marked by both adversity and achievement that no one saw coming because Larry refused to let that experience define him.
Breakthrough Success and Bestsellers
In February 2009, Wilson’s “The King of Erotica Book 1-3” simultaneously placed on Barnes and Noble.com’s Top 100 Bestseller’s list, sharing the spotlight with renowned authors like Steve Harvey, Stephanie Myer and President Obama. His inclusion in New York Times bestselling author E. Lynn Harris’s “Basketball Jones” Literary Cafe further solidified his reputation as a leading literary talent.
Diverse Achievements and Recognitions
Wilson’s talents extend beyond writing. He has appeared as an extra in films such as “Bandits” (2001) and Tyler Perry’s “If Loving You Is Wrong” (2015), and danced for multi-platinum artist Gavin Degraw at the Orange Bowl Halftime Show on ESPN in 2019. His modeling career includes a contract with the Miami Fashion Board in 2016, where he ranked in the top 10% of models across Florida.
Honors and Awards
Throughout his career, Wilson has received numerous accolades. He won Book of the Month, Book of the Year, and Male Author of the Year with the African American on the Move Book Club in 2010. He was also inducted into the Meak Productions Talent Agency’s Hall of Fame in 2023 and featured in the late Stephen Maglott’s Ubuntu Biography Project for three consecutive years. His literary achievements earned him the Men of Integrity Award from Utopian LLC and a Certificate of Recognition from the New York State Senate in 2016.
Mentor and Advocate
Wilson’s impact extends to mentoring emerging authors. He edited and wrote the forwards for debut novels by Artavius Veasey, Lashonta McCray, Daj2020, and Allyson M. Deese, providing guidance and support to aspiring writers. His online stories and poems have influenced a generation of authors who credit him as their inspiration.
New Releases and Ongoing Influence
“The Law of Beasts Book 1 – Act 1: Khovahsh,” released in 2024, continues to receive acclaim, including a five-star review from the Online Book Club and a nomination for Book of the Year. Wilson’s dedication to his craft and his ability to connect with readers through compelling narratives have solidified his place in the literary world.
The Law of Beasts Book 1 Special Edition and The Law of Beasts Book 1 – Act 2: Vultorian is coming in late 2024. Most recently, Artist Feature Magazine selected him for their Class of 2024 “Creative 100” induction later this year, for his tireless, impactful contributions to literature for nearly three decades. And his adoring fans are awaiting his upcoming Voroka Magazine cover feature later this year.
About Larry Wilson Jr. (Dapharoah69)
Larry Wilson Jr., known as Dapharoah69, is an award-winning, best selling independent author, poet, spoken word artist, HIV activist, actor, professional model, chef, and dancer. Born in Salinas, California, and raised in Goulds (Miami), Florida, Wilson has published 13 books and three memoirs, achieving multiple Amazon and Barnes and Noble Top 100 bestsellers. His work has been read over 80 million times online, making him a global literary force.
Media Contact
Larry Wilson Jr. (Dapharoah69), Bestselling Author
Email: dapharoah_69@yahoo.com
Website: dapharoah69.com
Instagram: @dapharoah_69
Instagram: @thelawofbeastsseries
Twitter: @dapharoah69
LinkedIn: Dapharoah Sixty-Nine
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Country: United States
Release Id: 11062413028