Author's Journey
Words That Inspire
How a Georgia legislator found her voice as a children's book author — and why literacy is at the heart of everything she does.
Where It All Began
Long before her name appeared in legislation, Regina Lewis-Ward was a storyteller. Growing up in Brooklyn's inner-city public housing projects, she understood a book's power to transport a child to new worlds, to show them heroes who looked like them, and to plant seeds of possibility that would grow for a lifetime.
An opportunity to address social issues such as bullying, cyber dangers, and internet-facilitated trafficking, inspired her to use children’s books as a tool for education and prevention. Through engaging, age-appropriate stories, she sought to help children recognize unsafe situations, understand the importance of being kind, and empower parents with meaningful ways to begin difficult conversations with their children.
The Journey
The Writing Process
Regina approached writing the way she approaches legislation — with research, community input, and a commitment to getting it right. Every word was chosen with care.
Publication
Her debut children's book, Jason Keeps a Secret, was met with enthusiasm from clergy, educators and families beyond Georgia, quickly finding its way into classrooms and school libraries.
Literacy Advocacy
Her work as an author has deepened her legislative advocacy for literacy funding, library resources, and early childhood reading programs.
Every child deserves to see themselves as the hero of their own story. That's why I write — and that's why I serve.— Regina Lewis-Ward
Discover the Books
Explore Regina's children's books and bring them into your home, classroom, or library.
View Children's Books