S. D. Smith: a proud mountaineer with a love for writing unique adventure books

GRANDVIEW, WV (WVNS) – S. D. Smith is an author of many things; One of those is a proud mountaineer.

Born and raised in Wayne County, he still remembers his humble childhood all these years later.

“I’m West Virginia born, West Virginia bred, and when I die I’ll be West Virginia dead. My Dad said we lived so far back in the woods that no one lived behind us.”

S. D. Smith, West Virginia author of The Green Ember series

Smith recalls his first interest in books came from his grandfather who served in World War 2.

While in England, his grandfather fell in love with English poetry, passing it on to his grandson.

Even after a missionary trip to South Africa, he never lost his love for writing and his family.

Ironically, his first set of books came from his own daughter.

“One day we were out on the porch and there were rabbits hoping around in the yard. So, I just decided to tell my daughter a story about rabbits. And that became The Green Ember.”

S. D. Smith, West Virginia author of The Green Ember series

This series of books became very popular, highlighted by fan mail and artwork.

Even after getting fan mail as far away as China, it’s hard not to get overwhelmed.

In fact, Smith initially thought it was his own mother writing down the numerous reviews.

“I think they think of me as a friend and I’ve had the chance to meet thousands of them.”

S. D. Smith, West Virginia author of The Green Ember series

Smith’s newest book, The Found Boys, comes out this September but it’s finding immediate success.

This marks his first traditionally published book and signed copies sold out within hours.

When asked about the future, Smith hopes to continue this gift for as long as possible.

“You’re not strong so that you can dominate other people, you’re strong so you can lift up the weak. I think of my vocation as a stewardship of imagination that I want to give gifts to kids. I received a gift, I want to give a gift.”

S. D. Smith, West Virginia author of The Green Ember series

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