Picture a New York City teacher weaving positivity into children’s hearts through storytelling—meet Alissa Holder! A State University of New York graduate and dedicated early childhood educator, Holder burst onto the literary scene with her inspiring picture book, I Am Smart, I Am Blessed, I Can Do Anything!. Born from a viral video of her son Ayaan reciting affirmations, her work radiates self-belief and joy, captivating young readers and parents alike.
As a mother of two and a creative spirit, Holder blends her professional expertise with personal warmth, crafting stories that empower kids to embrace their potential. Her debut book, co-authored with her sister Zulekha Holder-Young, has become a beacon of positivity, proving that a simple message can spark a global movement.
The Making of Alissa Holder
Alissa Holder grew up in the vibrant pulse of New York City, where her passion for nurturing young minds took root. A sociology graduate from the State University of New York at Albany, with a minor in education, she found her calling as an early childhood educator, spending over 12 years shaping the lives of children in childcare centers. Her love for fashion, crafting, and storytelling infused her teaching with creativity, setting the stage for her literary journey.
The spark for her writing career came unexpectedly when a video of her then-two-year-old son, Ayaan, reciting affirmations on his walk to school went viral. Shared on Instagram, the clip of Ayaan confidently declaring, “I am smart, I am blessed, I can do anything!” touched millions, inspiring Holder to transform this moment into a children’s book that would uplift readers worldwide.
Alissa Holder’s Unforgettable Stories
Holder’s debut, I Am Smart, I Am Blessed, I Can Do Anything!, published in 2020, is a vibrant picture book that follows Ayaan as he overcomes a tough morning with the power of affirmations. Co-authored with Zulekha Holder-Young and illustrated by Nneka Myers, the book’s colorful, animation-style artwork and diverse characters make it a joyful read for kids aged 3–7. Its message of resilience and self-confidence resonates across ages, earning praise from Kirkus Reviews for its “cheerful and warm” mother-son dynamic.
In 2021, Holder and her sister released a follow-up, I Am Amazing!, continuing Ayaan’s journey. This story sees Ayaan embracing his inner superhero, helping friends despite facing doubts from peers. With its focus on kindness and perseverance, the book reinforces Holder’s signature style: simple yet profound narratives that encourage self-love and community support. Both works stand out for their accessibility, with reviewers noting their perfect length and seamless readability for young audiences.
Holder’s writing is marked by its authenticity and heart. Drawing from her experiences as a mother and teacher, she crafts stories that feel like a warm hug, addressing universal childhood worries with optimism. Her use of affirmations as a storytelling tool sets her apart, offering kids practical strategies to navigate challenges while celebrating diversity through inclusive illustrations.
Why Alissa Holder Matters
Alissa Holder’s impact lies in her ability to transform a fleeting viral moment into a lasting legacy of empowerment. Her books have become staples in classrooms and homes, inspiring children to build confidence and embrace their worth. By centering Black joy and universal themes, Holder’s work resonates with diverse audiences, fostering a sense of belonging and possibility.
Beyond her books, Holder’s story as a teacher-turned-author encourages aspiring writers to draw from personal experiences. Her commitment to self-affirming narratives has sparked conversations about the power of positive reinforcement in early education, making her a quiet yet influential voice in children’s literature.
- Education: BA in Sociology, State University of New York at Albany
- Key Works: I Am Smart, I Am Blessed, I Can Do Anything! (2020), I Am Amazing! (2021)
- Fun Fact: Her debut was inspired by a viral Instagram video of her son Ayaan.
Ready to sprinkle some positivity into your child’s reading time? Snag I Am Smart, I Am Blessed, I Can Do Anything! and dive into Alissa Holder’s uplifting world of affirmations and joy!