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Debut children’s book celebrates farm life
McCOOK Neb. - In a delightful blend of creativity and personal storytelling, Ayla Smith has recently published her first children’s book, “If You Buy a Kid a Farm”. Smith’s book captures the joys of farm life through vibrant illustrations and engaging narratives.
“I love color and fun things, so I just had to do something creative,” Smith explained. Growing up in a farming environment filled with horses, cane, and alfalfa, she fondly recalls the daily routines that shaped her love for agriculture, including moving irrigation pipes and tending to the land.
Currently, Smith works in communications at McCook Christian Church, where she emphasizes the importance of using one’s gifts. One of her gifts is writing, she says, “You have to use the gifts that you're given. And even if it's not a gift that you use very often, you can grow it,” she said.
The inspiration for ‘When You Buy a Kid a Farm’ blossomed when Ayla and her husband, Frank, purchased their own farm. Smith shares that her farm already features everything depicted in her book—except for a cow, which they hope to add soon. “I grow a majority of our vegetables; last year’s garden produced enough that we haven’t had to buy any produce, except for lettuce and fresh fruit this year,” she shared.
Ayla's commitment to inclusivity is evident in her book, as she makes a point to showcase that anyone, regardless of skin shade, can become a farmer. This message highlights the importance of representation in literature.
The buzz surrounding Smith's book has been remarkable, with over 500 pre-orders placed , including one in the UK. In a heartfelt Facebook post, she expressed her gratitude: “Reflecting on the day and absolutely humbled by how many people have pre-ordered ‘If You Buy a Kid a Farm’… I had no real intentions of publishing this, but as it continued to be created, it felt like the next best step. So Thank you to everyone who has pre-ordered already, and if you haven’t, it’s available wherever you buy books.”
For those interested in getting their hands on a copy, “When You Buy a Kid a Farm” is available on line at major retailers including Amazon, Walmart, and Barnes & Noble it will also soon be available in McCook at Farrell’s Pharmacy.
Readers can look forward to Smith’s next project as well—a daily devotional aimed at those navigating seasons of waiting.
As Ayla Smith continues to explore her creative passions, her journey serves as an inspiring reminder of the power of storytelling and the beauty of farm life for children and adults alike.