Laura Ball is an Ohio native who discovered her passion for writing at a young age, crafting stories regularly after school. Her love for books ignited early, leading her to win a Tri-County essay contest in high school and spurring her to pursue writing more seriously. As a young adult, her poems were published in anthologies, and she is known to her friends and family for writing poems to celebrate milestones and special occasions. Ms. Ball is also the author of two cozy mysteries–Whiskers in Trouble and The Whiskered Witness. Albert the Donkey Meets a New Friend, Ms. Ball’s award-winning children’s picture book, is the first in a series of heartwarming tales about a donkey and his adventures which are filled with valuable life lessons that bring smiles and joy to readers of all ages. She has a dog named Eddie who provides countless hours of inspiration.
Q&A with LAURA BALL
What advantages will the world gain from your books?
- I think kids will develop a sense of friendship and doing things for others, being kind and helpful from my book.
What is the motivation behind writing these books and the impact it can have on others?
- I wanted to write a book that encourages children and entertains them and allows them to explore a new world with their imagination while also teaching valuable lessons in the process.
What are the benefits of reading as a habit?
- There are several benefits to reading from learning new things to growing a healthy imagination and exploring new worlds inside books. Growing a healthy vocabulary and strengthening communication skills are also benefits of reading.
What are some key values and skills that parents should impart to their children?
- Being kind to everyone is a really important value because it costs nothing to be kind to someone who may be going through a hidden struggle. I hope that a key take away from my Albert the Donkey books is that despite everything he goes through, Albert remains kind and friendly and ready to help those in need. I think those are great qualities that everyone can aspire to have.
What motivates you in life?
- I want to be the best and more authentic version of myself that I can be, and I want to encourage that in others. I also want to create something that brings joy to others and makes them smile. The world needs more joy, and I hope I can add that to someone with my stories.
What are four key features or aspects of your books?
- Four aspects of my books are friendship, kindness, helping those in need, and doing what is right. I believe those are all attributes that can and should be instilled in our children and encouraged and nurtured in our kids today.