Smart Earns Accolades for Inspirational Children's Books
A penchant for the written word has flourished into an award-winning pastime for Alfa’s Center for Learning Trainer II Negrita Smart.
Smart, who dove head-first into the children’s literary circuit in 2023, has published two books — Grace and The Golden Rule and Grace Loves Her Neighbor. Her faith-based stories deliver messages of kindness, humility and love.
The Golden Rule
“The decisions my parents made were often based on the Golden Rule, and their example has been a driving force in my life,” Smart said, calling back to Matthew 7:12. “Grace and The Golden Rule is a conversation starter to discuss what’s most important in life. It’s a simple, yet powerful lesson I wanted to be able to share with young children.”
Titular character Grace, a 5-year-old-girl with a heart to do big things, uses the valuable lessons taught by her parents to think twice when presented with a certain situation, remembering the most valuable lesson of all — treat others the way you want to be treated, and always be kind.
Smart said those lessons are just as valuable to share with adults.
“My hope is to always serve as a positive influence with our team members while finding ways to lend a helping hand whenever possible,” Smart said. “I’m grateful for the chance to help other team members at Alfa through the Center for Learning by providing them with the tools needed to be successful in their jobs. It’s important for me to share a message of grace – something we could all benefit from.”
Giving oneself grace is often hard to do. Smart, who’s been employed with Alfa for 19 years, said she experienced that challenge firsthand while writing and publishing her first book.
Her persistence paid dividends earlier this year when Grace and The Golden Rule earned Honorable Mention in Best Picture and Book Illustration category at the Clara J. Johns Literary Awards. Smart was also selected to serve as a Forbes Business Council Speaker at the Chosen Pen Publishing’s 10th Anniversary Celebration.
“I’m honored to be recognized for the hard work and dedication that went into creating the Grace series,” Smart said. ‘My family, friends and colleagues have been an amazing support system and I’m so thankful for the opportunity to share Grace with others.”
Smart’s debut book isn’t the only winner. Grace Loves Her Neighbor earned 2nd Place at The BookFest® Awards this spring. Grace was also featured on the Nasdaq display in New York City’s Times Square May 30.
“I am thankful for my family, friends and colleagues who continually support me,” Smart said. “I hope this award will inspire others to pursue their own literary passions. All things are possible."
Visit NegritaSmart.com to learn more.