A young author with Yazoo City roots has hit the ground running to promote literacy awareness, particularly among young readers. With three published books already under her belt, Kennedy Wayne recently paid a visit to the Ricks Memorial Library to host a free book signing and toy drive giveaway.
Kennedy spent her time in Yazoo City to encourage local children to read more and explore their creativity through writing. With titles available at Barnes and Noble, she is optimistic about her pending works and looks forward to promoting literacy awareness for future generations.
Did we mention she is only 11 years old?
“Promoting literacy among my generation is like giving us a set of keys that can unlock endless doors of opportunity and imagination,” Kennedy said. “There is so much we can do that must involve literacy awareness. Books can be windows into other lives and experiences. Through reading, I have developed empathy, understanding, and compassion. We learn to see the world from multiple perspectives, fostering emotional intelligence. That is why literacy portion is so important.”
Kennedy, the daughter of Brian and Damika Howard Wayne, currently resides in Virginia Beach, Virg. and attends Old Donation School-Brandon Middle School. She recently visited Yazoo City, where the young author has deep roots. Her mother and grandparents were born in Yazoo City, working in the education field. She is also the granddaughter of Debra (Howard) and Charlie Berry, Derrick and Beverly Young, the great-granddaughter of Clarence and Mary Lee Howard, Posha Young, and the great-great-granddaughter of Harry Young.
Kennedy hosted a free book signing and toy drive giveaway at the local library, drawing children and families from across Yazoo City. Attendees were thrilled to meet her, receive signed copies of her book, and participated in the toy drive. Her passion for literacy was evident as she engaged with the children, encouraging them to read more and explore their creativity through writing.
In addition to the book signing, Kennedy focused on raising awareness about the importance of literacy. Those efforts included a Spring Collection Book Contest, aimed to provide a platform for budding authors to showcase their talents and share their stories with the community.
“My visit to Yazoo City was incredibly special and deeply meaningful,” she said. “Having my grandparents and great-grandparents hail from there, I felt a profound connection to the place and its community. Being in a place where my ancestors lived, worked, and believed in the power of education was truly inspiring. It felt like I was walking in their footsteps, and I cherished the stories and memories shared by family members and the community; the Howard name is very strong.”
Kennedy said her love for reading started when she was about two years old. Her mother would regularly take her to libraries and bookstores where she eagerly selected books to read aloud to her and her aunt.
“My mother often tells me that she read to me while she was pregnant and even asked for books instead of toys at my baby shower,” Kennedy said. “It seems I was born into a world of stories and imagination.”
Aside from reading, Kennedy found herself writing daily affirmations for her friends and family. Leaving positive messages on sticky notes, a seed was planted to take her hobby beyond. At 11 years old, she has already published three books: What Can I Be? Kennedy's Careers from A-Z; First Day of Sixth Grade; and Kennedy's Affirmations from A-Z!: Positive Youth Affirmations.
“One summer, while browsing in a Barnes and Noble bookstore, I confidently told my mom that my book would one day be on those shelves,” she said. “With her support and encouragement, we made that dream a reality, and my first book—a collection of affirmations—was born.”
Kennedy’s favorite books evolve around Ann M. Martin and Raina Telgemeier’s classic series, The Babysitters Club.
“The way these books are written, they really draw you in and make you feel like you are a part of the Babysitters Club, experiencing all the adventures and challenges alongside Mary Anne, Claudia, Kristy, and the rest of the gang,” Kennedy said. “Each character has such a distinct personality, and their stories are so relatable that it’s easy to see yourself in their shoes.”
Kennedy’s description for the series is quite like her own work: building self-esteem, making new friends and embracing one’s unique qualities.
“My last book is filled with relatable experiences, such as making new friends, dealing with homework, and participating in school activities,” she said. “It aims to reassure young readers that it's normal to feel a mix of emotions on the first day and encourages them to embrace the opportunities that come with growing up, for a mature audience middle school age.”
And balance is certainly a theme that Kennedy has knowledge of. In addition to her writing, she is involved with competition cheer, majorette, the gifted program, piano lessons and singing, spending time with her loved one and, of course, taking care of her pet bunny, Theodore Asher Wayne.
“All these hobbies help me stay balanced, creative, and happy,” Kennedy said. “They allow me to explore different facets of my personality and keep my life exciting and fulfilling.”
Kennedy said she intends to write more books, each addressing different stages of childhood and adolescence. She also intends to take her written words to people through literacy awareness and initiatives.
“I intend to continue engaging with schools, libraries, and community centers to promote literacy and provide access to my books for children who might not have easy access to such resources,” she said. “I aim to support literacy programs and initiatives that help children thrive.”
Young Kennedy certainly made an impression during her recent visit, and even at 11 years old, she understood the importance of combining talent and drive with the foundation of those before her.
“My visit to Yazoo City was a beautiful blend of personal history, community engagement, and cultural exploration,” she said. “It strengthened my resolve to continue my family's legacy of believing in and advocating for the importance of education.”
