From her birth in Trinidad and Tobago in 1950 to present-day United States, author Joann De Coteau Crittendon reflects on her life, one filled with many twists and turns and some trauma. In Now I Shine, she shares her story, her experiences, her trials, and her many accomplishments despite the challenges. Crittendon offers details about her parents and siblings, family holidays and traditions, highlights of her nineteen years living on the islands of Trinidad and Tobago, immigrating to the United States, schooling, and raising a family. With her personal poetry writings included, this memoir helped Crittendon find hope, resilience, and validation to overcome her emotional, traumatic past. How I Shine offers an introspective look into her life that included many positive contributions and accomplishments.