Having little success finding fun books for her son, Nehemiah (Neo to his friends and family), it was only natural for Mia Dawson to ask her friend and mentor, Brenda Major to consider writing stories that Neo would enjoy.
The two collaborated with Major writing adventures that entertain and introduce Christian values that encourage readers to laugh, learn and grow; while Dawson creates the bonus section of devotionals and discussion questions adults can review with kids.
Adventures of Neo
Are you ready to make new friends—even with a talking squirrel? Do you have the courage to save your mom from the creepy, slimy gray monster in the bathroom? How about flying over the moon on your pet dragon? Then you’re ready to join Neo on his amazing adventures. Get started today with the first in the seven book Adventures of Neo series: Neo and the Blue Balloon.
Neo
The diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder at age three has not hindered Nehemiah Dawson’s love of reading, adventure and fun. Seeing the world through his lens is the driving force behind The Adventures of Neo series.
Neo (the kid and the character) is fearless, funny and brave. He makes friends with everyone and loves sharing his greatest accomplishments. Neo challenges us to look for the good in people and situations. He reminds us that everyone is different and special and deserves to be treated with patience, kindness and understanding.
Brenda Major - Author
Brenda started writing stories at age ten. She holds fast to her vivid imagination, which connected instantly with Neo.
Major (or Miss Bunny, as Neo calls her) began tutoring Nehemiah Dawson at age five, which led her to research and develop learning strategies for children with autism. She has also created curriculum and programs to enhance literacy in children and adults. Expanding her career as an administrator in higher education, she is an educator, playwright and children’s book author. In addition to The Adventures of Neo series, Major is currently writing adult, faith-based novels as well.
Mia Dawson - Co-Writer & Creator
When she learned of her eldest son, Nehemiah’s diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder, Mia Dawson understood why she was led to make the choice to abandon her career as a youth counselor and probation officer to become a stay-at-home mother. Now, as co-author of The Adventures of Neo series, Dawson has become a spokesperson and advocate for parents of autistic children, as well as those making the difficult choice to home school. As a wife and mother of two boys (you’ll meet Neo’s younger brother in book seven), active church and community member, Mia Dawson constantly seeks resources that will benefit Nehemiah and other children with special needs. She recognized the need to foster her son’s love of reading and hoped to find books that would provide an escape from his intense tutoring and therapy sessions. She is now pleased to share The Adventures of Neo with every family, hoping they will become a treasured part of your library.
Chloe Vecellio - Illustrator & Designer
Chloe was sixteen when she fell in love with drawing and illustration, which then turned into a passion for design and professional illustration when she started college. One day in illustration class, her teacher, Dan Wild, asked if she'd like to work on a children's book. From there she met with the creators of Adventures of Neo and began putting an image to the story.
