Letina (Tina) Brady Pettis is a dedicated children’s book author who uses storytelling to educate and inspire young readers. Growing up on the South Side of Chicago, she learned the importance of voting and public service through conversations with her family. Those experiences led her to create books introducing children to civic engagement and leadership.

Her books, “I Want to Vote” and “I Voted,” have received the International Impact Book Award for their contributions to youth civic education. These stories follow Tricee, a young girl who discovers the power of voting and the importance of participating in elections. She expanded the series with I Want to Serve My Neighborhood and I Want to Serve My City, teaching children about local government and leadership.

Letina also honors her brothers through her writing. Drew’s Gift of Hope tells the story of organ donation and how one decision can save lives, while Roscoe, the Boy Who Loved to Read, celebrates a love for books and learning.

Letina is committed to educating, engaging, and uplifting young readers through her books. She wants them to recognize the power of their voices, see themselves as leaders, and understand how they can make a difference as changemakers in their communities.