At just 9 years old, Kennedy Elliott is already living her dream of being a published author. Her imaginative debut book, “Kennedy and Marie the Martian’s Mississippi Adventures,” is charming readers across the Coast and beyond. Packed with themes of friendship, acceptance and teamwork, this heartwarming tale offers a perfect escape for young readers.
Kennedy’s story follows four adventurous friends whose lives take an exciting turn when they discover Marie, a Martian girl whose spaceship crash-lands on Gulfport beach. Together, they embark on whimsical adventures, from visiting a local aquarium and meeting an imaginary train conductor to building sandcastles on the beach. Infused with the warmth of her hometown, Kennedy’s book celebrates camaraderie, creativity and the magic of childhood.
A DREAM TAKES SHAPE
Kennedy’s journey to authorship started early. A lover of books since toddlerhood, she started crafting her own short stories at age 5. Her dream gained traction when she read “Sebastian’s Pen-Pal Adventures” by local author and Realtor Susie Siemiontkowski, who penned four books to ease children’s nerves about moving to the the Mississippi Gulf Coast.
For Kennedy, the connection was more than literary. Siemiontkowski had once worked for her parents, Adrienne and Brandon Elliott, at Elliott Homes. Adrienne reminded her daughter of childhood visits to Siemiontkowski’s model homes and how she would grab everything from wooden spoons to remote controls, asking it to “text Susie.”
Years later, the girl’s admiration for Siemiontkowski’s work led Adrienne to propose a mentorship. Siemiontkowski immediately agreed.
“What an honor to be part of her first publication!” Siemiontkowski says.
Through weekly meetings and calls, the pair brainstormed characters, built plots and polished the manuscript.
“Writing a book was harder than I thought,” Kennedy admits, “but Mrs. Susie helped me every step of the way. I couldn’t wait to tell her my new ideas every week.”
A FAMILY AFFAIR
The project became a family endeavor. Elliott’s father, Brandon, turned the process into a life lesson, taking her to a local bank to apply for a “loan” to fund illustrations. The experience motivated the budding writer, who set a goal to repay the loan within months.
Her dedication paid off, both financially and creatively. The nearly 100-page book exceeded expectations.
“When Kennedy first mentioned writing a book, we thought it might be a passing phase,” Adrienne says. “But she not only stuck with it, she thrived.”
Brandon proudly adds, “The moment she showed me the book for sale on Amazon was unforgettable.”
THE POWER OF MENTORSHIP
For Siemiontkowski, guiding Kennedy was both inspiring and rewarding.
“What started as a summer project for a short book became a magical story filled with childhood charm,” she says. “She even wove her friends and family into the plot, making it truly special.”
The collaboration rekindled Siemiontkowski’s passion for writing.
“Kennedy’s enthusiasm reminded me why I love storytelling,” she says.
A FUTURE FULL OF ADVENTURES
With her debut book now completed, Kennedy already is planning her next story, “Kennedy and Marie the Martian’s Canadian Capers.” Drawing on ideas from her biggest fans, twin sisters Harper and Juliette, she’s ready to take her characters and readers on another unforgettable journey.
Kennedy’s determination proves that big dreams can come true at any age. If you’re looking for an inspiring, delightful read, Kennedy’s debut book will capture your heart and leave you eagerly awaiting her next adventure, Siemiontkowski says.
“Come home to Coastal Mississippi,” she adds, “where children’s imaginations soar and dreams take flight.”