LaDonna N. Smith is an accomplished author, digital illustrator, and educator with a passion for empowering young minds through storytelling and creativity. With a diverse body of work that spans children's books, digital art, and educational programs, LaDonna has dedicated her career to fostering a love of learning and self-expression in children of all backgrounds.
Her books, known for their vibrant illustrations and powerful themes, often celebrate fiscal fitness, cultural diversity, self-confidence, and the importance of dreaming big. LaDonna's digital artistry is a hallmark of her work, bringing her stories to life with colorful, engaging visuals that resonate with readers of all ages.
In addition to her solo projects, LaDonna has co-authored several books, including collaborations with her four children. Together, they create stories that reflect the experiences and aspirations of today’s youth, making their books both relatable and inspiring.
LaDonna is also the creator of We Lit Reads and the We Lit Academy, an innovative online platform that offers a comprehensive, interactive learning experience for children. The academy features a wide range of educational content, including the popular Battle of the Books competition and financial literacy workshops inspired by her award-winning book, The Money Tree.
Through her work, LaDonna N. Smith continues to inspire and educate, leaving a lasting impact on the lives of young readers and their families. Her dedication to her craft and her commitment to empowering the next generation make her a true leader in the world of children's literature and education.
1. What inspired you to start writing children's books, and how do you choose the themes you focus on?
My inspiration comes from a deep love for storytelling and a passion for empowering young minds, especially those from diverse backgrounds. I choose themes that resonate with the experiences and challenges children face today, such as self-love, cultural pride, and the power of dreaming big. I believe these are essential values that can help shape confident, compassionate, and creative young individuals.
2. Many of your book covers feature vibrant digital art. Can you tell us about your process of creating these illustrations?
I just started trying my hand at digital art. My digital art process is closely tied to the stories I create. I start by immersing myself in the narrative to understand the emotions, colors, and imagery that will best bring the story to life visually. I use a variety of digital tools to craft illustrations that are not only beautiful but also meaningful, ensuring they resonate with both children and adults. The cover is the first impression of the book, so it’s important that it captures the essence of the story and invites readers into the literary world I’ve created.
3. How do you balance the creative process of writing with the technical skills needed for digital illustration?
It’s all about finding a rhythm that works. I usually start with writing, letting the story flow naturally. Once the narrative is solid, I switch to illustration, allowing the visual elements to complement and enhance the text. The two processes inform each other—sometimes a visual idea will inspire a new twist in the story, and sometimes the story will dictate certain visual choices. It’s a dynamic, interconnected process that keeps me fully engaged in both aspects of creation process.
4. You’ve co-authored several books with your children. What’s it like collaborating with your children on projects?
Collaborating with my children is an absolute joy. They all bring fresh ideas and a youthful perspective that keeps our stories relatable and engaging for young readers. We have a great creative synergy, bouncing ideas off each other and pushing each other to explore new concepts. It’s also a wonderful bonding experience for all of us, and I’m incredibly proud of the work we’ve done together so far.
5. Can you share a bit about your new book and song "Brown, Brown, Baby"? What’s the story behind this project?
“Brown, Brown, Baby" is a very special project for me. It’s not just a book, but an entire experience that combines storytelling with music to celebrate the beauty and strength of Black children. The story is all about embracing one’s identity, culture, and the joy of self-expression. The accompanying song reinforces these messages in a fun and memorable way, making it perfect for young children. This book and song will also kick off my children’s learning academy and online platform, setting the stage for a series of educational and empowering content.
6. How does your children’s learning academy and online platform tie into your existing work as an author and digital artist?
The academy and online platform are the next evolution of my work, designed to provide a comprehensive, interactive learning experience for children. Through We Lit Reads, we’ll offer not just books and music, but also videos, games, and other resources that make learning engaging and fun. One of our flagship programs will be Battle of the Books, a dynamic literary competition where children can earn Lit Bucks and other rewards for their reading achievements. It’s all about creating an environment where children are excited to learn, explore their creativity, and connect with stories that reflect their experiences and dreams.
7. Your award-winning book The Money Tree has received a lot of praise for its approach to teaching financial literacy. How has this book influenced the workshops and programs you offer?
The Money Tree has been a cornerstone in my efforts to teach financial literacy to young people. The positive reception of the book showed me how eager children are to learn about money management in a fun and relatable way. This inspired me to develop a series of financial workshops that we’re offering through our Lit Camp experience. We recently hosted our second annual Money Ball competition, which combines basketball and finance—it was a huge hit with the older kids! I’m excited to expand these workshops and share more innovative programs that make learning about money both enjoyable and impactful.
8. What do you hope children take away from the stories you tell and the art you create?
I hope that children come away from my books feeling proud of who they are and inspired to chase their dreams. I want them to see themselves in the characters and to realize that they are capable of great things. Through my art, I strive to show them the beauty in diversity and the power of self-expression. Ultimately, I want every child to feel valued, confident, and ready to take on the world.
9. How do you incorporate the principles of your children’s academy into your writing and illustrations?
The principles of the academy—creativity, confidence, and cultural awareness—are woven into every aspect of my work. Each story I write and each illustration I create is designed to reinforce these values, making learning a holistic and enjoyable experience. For instance, in Battle of the Books, children not only read but also engage in creative activities that deepen their understanding and appreciation of literature. It’s about fostering a love for learning that goes beyond the classroom.
10. What has been the most rewarding aspect of seeing your books and art resonate with children and their families?
The most rewarding aspect is hearing from parents and children about how my work has impacted them. Whether it’s a child who feels more confident after reading one of my books or a family that has connected over the story and song of "Brown, Brown, Baby," those moments are priceless. It’s incredibly fulfilling to know that my work is making a positive difference in the lives of young readers.
11. What’s next for you? Are there any new projects or initiatives on the horizon?
There’s always something new on the horizon! I’m currently focused on expanding the We Lit Reads platform with more interactive content, including additional books, songs, and educational videos. I’m also looking forward to launching new seasons of Battle of the Books and introducing more innovative learning tools for children. My ultimate goal is to create a vibrant educational ecosystem where children can learn, grow, and thrive in a way that’s both fun and meaningful.
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