How a Grandmother’s Love Inspired Jungle Adventures: the Debut of Ketra Simpson’s Children’s Book

By: Forgottonia Times™ Report

Book cover courtesy of Ketra Simpson

In a cozy corner of Galesburg's Wordsmith Bookshoppe, young readers will find a vibrant new addition to their shelves: What's In The Jungle, the debut children's book from author and illustrator Ketra Simpson. This colorful and engaging picture book is the first in Simpson's Grandma and Me Series, an endeavor inspired by her grandson and a lifelong love of storytelling.

Simpson's path to publishing was anything but conventional. Raised in the area, she fondly recalls her childhood love for crafting poems and short stories, often escaping into imaginative worlds through writing. Although she dreamed of becoming a teacher, life had other plans. As a young mother, she shifted her focus to a career in healthcare, which she pursued for nearly thirty years.

"[Writing] was always a way for me to relax and kind of escape into my own little world," Simpson shared.

Her passion for teaching found its way back into her life when she began working with individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities. In this role, she teaches skills such as reading comprehension, creative writing, and problem-solving, a vocation she describes as "the most rewarding job I could have ever imagined."

The birth of her first grandchild marked a turning point. Inspired by the special bond between grandparents and grandchildren, Simpson began writing stories that could foster those connections. "My grandson is the inspiration behind each story," she said.

What's In The Jungle is a delightful exploration of the rainforest's wonders. With vivid illustrations and whimsical rhymes, the book introduces children to the fascinating creatures that call the jungle home. Packed with fun facts and vibrant imagery, it's designed to captivate budding nature lovers while educating them about the natural world.

Simpson's journey to publication has been deeply personal. She credits her grandmother for instilling in her the confidence to dream big and love the written word. Simpson still remembers the day her grandmother came to hear her recite a poem in second grade— "I remember it made her cry… I pray she is watching over me and is just as proud of me today."

Since its release on November 12th, What's In The Jungle has been available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Walmart, and more. But for Forgottonia residents, Wordsmith Bookshoppe will be the go-to destination to purchase Simpson's book locally.

Simpson also hosted two book signings on November 23rd: one at John Mosser Public Library in Abingdon, and another at Galesburg Public Library. These events featured live readings and an opportunity for fans to meet the author. On January 18th, Simpson will host a Meet the Author and Book Signing event at Wordsmith Bookshoppe from 1:00-3:00pm. 

For Simpson, What's In The Jungle is just the beginning. She envisions many more adventures in her Grandma and Me Series. But for now, she's savoring the joy of seeing her dream come to life. "It's just so hard to believe most days, but I'm overjoyed to have this amazing opportunity."