Kelly J. Baptist
Kelly J. Baptist is a 1-Time AALBC.com Bestselling Author
Biography of Kelly J. Baptist
Kelly J. Baptist is an acclaimed author known for her powerful and insightful books for young readers. She has a unique gift for telling stories that reflect the experiences, struggles, and triumphs of Black youth, often with themes of family, resilience, and self-discovery.
Kelly's love for storytelling was evident from an early age, and her passion for writing grew as she found ways to explore the voices of underrepresented children and communities. Her breakout moment came when her short story The Beans and Rice Chronicles of Isaiah Dunn won the We Need Diverse Books short story contest. This eventually expanded into her widely celebrated middle-grade novel, Isaiah Dunn Is My Hero (2020), which centers on a young boy discovering his strength and identity in the face of family hardships.
In addition to Isaiah Dunn Is My Hero, Kelly has written other highly regarded books, such as The Electric Slide and Kai (2021), a picture book celebrating family and cultural pride, and Isaiah Dunn Saves the Day (2022), the sequel to her debut novel.
Kelly's work resonates deeply with readers because she crafts authentic, relatable characters who navigate difficult circumstances with heart and hope. Her storytelling blends humor, honesty, and warmth, making her books beloved by children, educators, and parents alike.
When she's not writing, Kelly enjoys traveling and spending time with her family. She remains committed to uplifting diverse voices in literature, encouraging young readers to see themselves as heroes in their own stories.
Learn more at Kelly J. Baptist’s official website.
