Kids to Know: Nia Williams
Eight-year-old Nia Williams, a Tampa Bay second grader, is a published author making her mark on the local literary scene. Inspired by a personal childhood moment, her debut book, “Did You Know God Made You Beautiful?” co-authored with her mother, Kiva Williams, shares a message of confidence and self-worth with other kids.
When Nia is not writing, she stays active with gymnastics, singing and dancing. Recently featured at both the St. Pete Lit Festival and the Oxford Exchange Children’s Book Festival, young Nia is already connecting with readers across Tampa Bay.
How did you come up with the idea for your book “Did You Know God Made You Beautiful?”
Nia Williams: When I was in kindergarten, two boys told me they didn’t like my hair. I told my mom, and she said my hair is beautiful just the way God made it. That really stayed with me.
What is your book about?
Nia Williams: It’s about telling people they are pretty just the way they are. If someone says something mean, it’s great to respond with, “I don’t care — I’m beautiful just the way God made me.”
What do you love most about being an author?
Nia Williams: I love knowing that people who read my book can end feeling inspired by the message of “Did You Know God Made You Beautiful?”
How did it feel to be a featured author at the St. Pete Lit Festival and Oxford Exchange Children’s Book Festival?
Nia Williams: It felt incredible! I loved doing a story time reading and a book signing at the St. Pete Lit Festival. It was so much fun meeting other authors at the Oxford Exchange Children’s Book Festival. We have such a supportive community.
When you’re not writing, what do you love to do most?
Nia Williams: Drawing, painting, dancing and going to the playground to hang out with my friends.
Do your activities ever inspire your stories?
Nia Williams: I love being active! Dancing and painting inspire me and, someday, I hope to write stories from those inspirations.
What advice would you give to other kids who want to write their own book?
Nia Williams: Spend time thinking about your dreams — goals — for the book. Have a strong understanding of what the book’s main message and storyline will be. Definitely ask adults, like parents, to help you through the process.
TBPM: What’s one big dream you have for the future?
NW: I want to be a USF Bulls cheerleader. It looks fun to cheer and fly in the air!
TBPM: Do you plan on writing another book?
NW: Yes! I would love to write another book with my mom. It was a special experience.
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Originally published in the May 2026 issue of Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine | Images courtesy of Kiva Williams