Kya Raine holds a bachelor of science degree in neuroscience from Georgia Institute of Technology and works as a private English and math tutor. Passionate about teaching and STEM, she is excited to share her debut book, Brain Basics: Neuroscience for Kids, which introduces children to the brain in a fun and approachable way. Through her work, Kya hopes to spark curiosity, promote diversity in science, and show kids that they can achieve their goals.
Q: What inspired the idea behind your book?
A: I was inspired to introduce STEM, specifically neuroscience, to young learners in a way that sparks curiosity and excitement about the field. My goal was to make neuroscience concepts understandable and accessible, especially because children’s brains have remarkable plasticity, which is the ability to absorb and learn new information quickly and effectively.
Q: Was your main character modeled after anyone in your life?
A: There is no single central character in the book, as my goal is to promote diversity and show that any child can learn STEM and pursue his/her dreams. Children of all ethnicities, abilities, and religious backgrounds are capable of achieving any goal, and introducing these topics early helps spark curiosity in their rapidly developing minds.
Q: What is your favorite part of the writing process?
A: My favorite part of the writing process for Brain Basics: Neuroscience for Kids was creating the rhymes. Wordplay brings the story to life, and the natural “bounce” of the rhythm helps the information stick in young learners’ minds (and adults’ too).
Q: Do you have a favorite book, poem, TV, or movie quote?
A: A shortened version of a quote that consistently stands out to me is “Work hard at work worth doing” by Theodore Roosevelt. These profound words indicate that effort is a choice and that dedicating effort to work that will help you or others is highly worthwhile. We can change the world and add kindness and compassion to it, so long as we put in the effort.
Q: Would you write another book (or are you already writing another book)?
A: I am in the process of writing a script for another book that will turn Neuroscience for Kids into a series! The possibilities are endless.
Kya Raine's debut children's book, Brain Basics: Neuroscience for Kids, is coming soon March 10, 2026!