Picture a storyteller who weaves Virginia’s rich history into thrilling adventures for young readers—meet Steven K. Smith! This American children’s novelist has captured the imaginations of kids worldwide with his engaging tales, starting with the beloved Virginia Mysteries series in 2013. From mysteries steeped in local lore to sci-fi epics, Smith’s stories blend adventure, history, and heart, making him a standout in middle-grade fiction.
Moving from New Jersey to Virginia in 2011, Smith found inspiration in his new home’s historic charm. His knack for storytelling, honed through bedtime tales for his three sons, has led to over 300,000 books sold and countless school visits, where he sparks a love for reading in young fans.
The Making of Steven K. Smith
Born and raised in rural northwestern New Jersey, Steven K. Smith grew up with a passion for stories, devouring classics like Where the Red Fern Grows and The Adventures of Tom Sawyer. After studying political science and business in Pennsylvania, he worked in medical education sales for over two decades. But his creative spark never dimmed—writing poems, stories, and Christmas letters kept his imagination alive. In 2009, he started blogging at MyBoys3 to capture the joys and chaos of raising his three boys, laying the groundwork for his literary career.
The move to Virginia in 2011 was a turning point. Inspired by the state’s history and his sons’ curiosity, Smith began crafting bedtime stories that evolved into his debut novel, Summer of the Woods. Published in 2013 under his own MyBoys3 Press, it marked the start of a prolific journey in children’s literature.
Steven K. Smith’s Unforgettable Stories
Smith’s flagship Virginia Mysteries series follows brothers Sam and Derek and their friend Caitlin as they solve mysteries tied to Virginia’s landmarks. The series, now spanning 11 books, kicks off with Summer of the Woods (2013), where the trio uncovers a 60-year-old mystery involving a stolen coin collection. Other highlights include Mystery on Church Hill (2013), exploring Patrick Henry’s famous speech, and Spies at Mount Vernon (2018), a thrilling spy adventure. Each book blends fast-paced plots with historical tidbits, appealing to kids aged 7–12 and reluctant readers alike.
Beyond mysteries, Smith’s Brother Wars series captures the humorous rivalry of brothers Harry and Randy, while the Final Kingdom trilogy (2019–2020) dives into sci-fi for ages 10+, following Bryce’s quest in a virtual world. Smith’s style—reminiscent of Hardy Boys and Nancy Drew—combines vivid settings, relatable characters, and a touch of history, making his stories both educational and entertaining.
His independent publishing approach through MyBoys3 Press gives him creative freedom, allowing him to craft stories that resonate with his audience. With a knack for engaging young readers, Smith’s books are a staple in classrooms and libraries, often complementing social studies curricula.
Why Steven K. Smith Matters
Steven K. Smith’s impact lies in his ability to make history accessible and exciting for young readers. His Virginia Mysteries series has been praised for sparking curiosity about local history, earning accolades like the Virginia State Reading Association’s 2019–20 Virginia Readers’ Choice award for Shadows at Jamestown. By visiting over 200 schools, Smith inspires kids to read, write, and explore their own stories.
His stories also foster a sense of adventure and community, encouraging kids to see their surroundings through a lens of wonder. With nearly half a million books sold, Smith’s influence continues to grow, proving that independent authors can leave a lasting mark on children’s literature.
- Born: Northwestern New Jersey
- Key Works: Virginia Mysteries, Brother Wars, Final Kingdom
- Awards: Virginia Readers’ Choice (2019–20) for Shadows at Jamestown
- Hobbies: Cycling, hiking, kayaking, and cheering for the New York Yankees
Ready for an adventure? Snag Summer of the Woods and dive into Steven K. Smith’s thrilling world of mystery and history!