Renaee Smith is an international award winning, accomplished author who has published several books. Her books deal with social and environmental issues in a way that children can understand.
​
Smith was born and raised in Montego Bay, Jamaica. She is a wife, mother of three boys who currently resides in New Jersey. She is the CEO of Independent Authors Book Experience a nonprofit organization that helps independent authors and the founder of the Annual Independent Authors Book Expo started in 2014. She is also the CEO of Independent Authors Publications a boutique publishing company designed to assist the writer "Bring Their Books to Life".
​
Mrs. Smith has a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) in Actuarial Science and Insurance and a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics and Computer Science. She works as the Director of Development for a non-profit organization that provides homes for the homeless and near homeless.
​
Mrs. Smith writes in 2 main genres; children's books and cookbooks. It was her love for cooking and baking that sparked her gift for writing. Her first book was her cookbook "Jamaica's Forgotten Treats" and then “Memba When”. Her cookbook “Memba When” has received international recognition. It was awarded the Best First Cookbook for Jamaica from Gourmand Cookbook Awards 2014.
About Renaee Smith
Her Freddie Series
Her children's books have stunning full-color illustrations and educational messages that will inspire young readers. With her books she seeks to educate, inform and inspire. ​You will meet Freddie the lovable 9 year old in this 4-part series which is the perfect way to follow Freddie’s adventures in different environments and situations. "The Great Compost Heap” which will enlighten elementary students and the community about composting, and how they can use this to help the environment.
“Freddie’s First Race”, helps children to understand that with hard work and determination you can realize you dreams, In her children’s book, "Freddie's Good Deed", children learn to do good deeds because it's the right thing to do, without expecting anything in return. Her most recent children's book "Freddie Goes to the Beach" deals with family; spending time with them and having a great day at the beach. "Freddie Learns the Value of Money" teaches children about financial literacy.
​
​Visit the bookstore to purchase the four pack Freddie's Series just released or purchase them individually. Your child or the children in your life will be sure to enjoy the full set.
Her Cookbooks
Jamaica’s Forgotten Treats – a compilation of traditional Jamaican snacks and treats. The recipes are simple, fun and have been kept authentic and true to Jamaica. This cookbook is for anyone who likes to bake and try different recipes. Buy this cookbook and try one of these truly delicious recipes and experience a taste of Jamaica.
Her Other Books
“Who Turned The Lights Out?”, sheds light on the issue of the homeless and the near homeless. Although not a part of the Freddie series is a book that Mrs. Smith holds dear to her heart as she explains homelessness to children in a non threatening way.
31 Days of Encouragement is a calendar that serves as a motivational tool with words of inspiration, along with uplifting images of joy and reflection. It can be used month after month. For the graduate off to school for the first time or that loved one who needs that inspirational boost. This is a daily reminder to give thanks and to be inspired and to keep pushing forward.
In the Community
Mrs. Smith is very involved in her community and has held several positions. She has been an active member of the Parent Teacher Group, holding the position of President and many other positions for several years.
​
2006 - Present Realtor
2019 - Commissioner on the Roselle Board of Education
2022 - Present Roselle Women on the Move
2023 - 2024 President Roselle Chamber of Commerce
2024 - Member of the Roselle UEZ Committee
​
AWARDS
2016 - President's Award for Independent Authors Book Experience form the Roselle Chamber of Commerce
2024 Business Woman of the Year for the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW)
2024 Union County SHERO Award
Mrs. Smith attends Second Baptist Church where she is a member of the Christian Writers Ministry, the Co-Chair for the Women's Day Committee, a Trustee, a member of the Missionary Ministry, the ByLaw Committee and Audit Committee.
Mrs. Smith is a Jamaican for real and when she is not working on her many projects she loves to read, crochet, write and travel with her family.
