Meet Afra Brown | Children’s Book Author

We had the good fortune of connecting with Afra Brown and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Afra, how do you think about risk?
Risk taking is both scary and exciting for me. I know that it is necessary to take risks in life in order to move forward and become more successful. However, it can also be a bit overwhelming to break out of my comfort zone. Risk taking is something that I continue to practice on a regular basis when I feel like I need to grow. I took a huge risk when publishing my very first children’s book, The New Kid in Mounds. The story is very personal, as I took from my own experiences with racism and discrimination. It was hard to share my story at first, but I am very glad that I did. The success of this book gave me the confidence to write three more books! I am able to positively influence readers with all of my stories and I’m very grateful for this!

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
To get to where I am, I simply had to go for it. I had to stop telling myself that one day I would share my stories with the world, and just do it. As an introvert, it was not easy for me to share my writing. Although my stories are very intimate and personal, I still felt that it was my duty to help those who have gone through similar childhood struggles as me. I felt like writing children’s books was the way to do this, as you can reach human beings at the youngest ages.

I am very passionate about writing stories for children and teaching them this way. I am fortunate to be able to help shape young minds in a positive way. My stories are based on issues in society as well as my own personal experiences. Writing is therapeutic for me and a creative outlet. I believe that sharing my stories helps heal myself and the children and parents who read them. I hope to help heal children as well as educate and entertain them.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Spend the days hiking at Sweetwater Creek State Park, enjoying the beauty of Atlanta Botanical Garden, observing art at The High Museum or Art. Eat delicious vegan food at Bar Vegan at Ponce City Market and Cafe Sunflower in Buckhead.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My parents definitely deserve some recognition. They were my very first teachers! I would not have been able to write any of these stories without their love, education, and support.

Website: www.afrabrown.com

Instagram: @aframations, @kellyandlaylaseries

Facebook: Afra Brown, Kelly and Layla series