Ashley Franklin

Ashley Franklin is the author of inclusive children’s literature who believes that all kids deserve to see themselves reflected in the pages of a book. Her stories prominently feature kids with big hearts and even bigger imaginations. Ashley is the author of the picture book NOT QUITE SNOW WHITE, an Amazon’s Teachers’ Pick, and its sequel, BETTER TOGETHER, CINDERELLA, which together, offer empowering, body-positive, fairy tale-inspired stories for young readers.

Her portfolio highlights vibrant stories of community celebration, family, and identity, including THE MASJID KAMAL LOVES (Kirkus starred review), XAVIER'S VOICE, and her contribution to the celebrated middle-grade anthology ONCE UPON AN EID. She has also lent her voice to beloved household franchises as the author of Disney’s THE LITTLE MERMAID: MAKE A SPLASH and Marvel’s MOON GIRL AND DEVIL DINOSAUR: HAIR TODAY, GONE TOMORROW.

Whether she is exploring social-emotional learning (SEL) themes or crafting joyful cultural representation, her mission remains the same: creating stories that help readers feel deeply seen, accepted, and loved. Ashley lives in Arkansas with her family, who have been her biggest supporters and source of inspiration.