Welcome to the next installment of the Broadleaf Member Spotlight, featuring screenwriter, teacher, and author Kelly Young-Silverman!
It all started with a love of theater. Kelly majored in theater down in Savannah at Armstrong Atlantic State University (now Georgia Southern). That’s where she started writing plays and exploring acting.
Partners can bring out the very best in us and that’s exactly what her husband did. Kelly had an idea for a short film script. David was ready to support her and help bring that concept to life. They assembled an amazing team of cast and crew, many of whom they still work with today.
That was the kick off for Cakebaby Productions. Their first film was called The Tedious Existence of Terrell B. Howell. It can be found on their Vimeo channel along with other pieces they’ve produced. The film was chosen to screen in several different film festivals nationwide and since then. Of all the short films they’ve created, Kelly’s favorite is Too Late Now.
But films weren’t all that interested Kelly. A storyteller at heart, she loves building around inspiration and then deciding which medium they fit into best. An idea for a poem about a little girl that wanted to meet the moon led her into the world of writing children’s books. Man in the Moon was published in 2014 and was followed by Where’s Wilson in 2016.
Her latest children’s book, Hot Boiled Peanuts: A Georgia Food Tour, will be coming to bookstores this spring! It’s the story of a young girl that goes on an adventure with her grandparents to explore the classic treats throughout the state. A wonderful way to introduce a variety of foods and regions of Georgia with your little one, be on the lookout for the launch and book signings!
Kelly’s next storytelling adventure is taking her to new territory again. Her latest project is Lost in the Non, a YA novel. You can find excerpts from it on her website.
Hear more about Kelly’s journey, lessons learned, and inspirations in the Member Spotlight full recording.
You can connect with Kelly and find out more about her on her website, Cakebaby Vimeo, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter/X.
Interested in being featured in a Member Spotlight? Take advantage of being a member of Broadleaf Writers Association and reach out to our Board Member and Marketing Volunteer, Jessica Bowers, at odessablaine@gmail.com.