Meet Theda Lynne Prince, a little girl with a big heart and even bigger dreams.
From “bossy big sister” to teacher, counselor, wife, and mother, Theda’s journey shows how faith and courage can turn heartbreak into hope. When life took an unexpected turn, she held onto her promise to her late husband and rose to the challenge of running a successful McDonald’s franchise while raising their young son.
In Theda The Persistent Leader, T. Lynette Yankson shares her sister’s miraculous true life story through vivid illustrations, empowering messages, and insight about leadership that will remind all young readers to believe in themselves.
Perfect for classrooms, libraries, and families, this new children’s book celebrates the strength of women, the beauty of resilience, and the power of never giving up. In this interview, we dive into Lynette’s background, inspiration, and writing process to understand the power of preserving legacies and uplifting stories of perseverance and faith. Let’s get into it!
Book Title: Theda the Persistent Leader: A True Story of how Theda Rudd Transformed Tragedy into Triumph and built a McDonald's Empire
Genre: Children's Books, Children's Historical Biography
Website: tlynetteyankson.com
Hey Lynette! Thanks for joining us. Can you start by telling us what Theda the Persistent Leader is about, in a few words?
Theda the Persistent Leader tells the inspiring true story of my sister, Theda Lynne Prince, a determined young girl who grew up asking big questions, leading with heart, and believing in the power of hard work. From mentoring young Magic Johnson to growing a thriving McDonald's empire and founding the Ronald McDonald House of Mid-Michigan, Theda's shows how love and determination can create a lasting legacy.
What inspired you to write this book now?
My oldest sister Theda has always been a great role model in my life and she was a lot of fun to be around. Because she was always bossing me around, as I am the youngest, I would sometimes call her “my other mother.” She was basically a born leader and a true scholar.
I decided to write a children's book about her life primarily for her two grandchildren ages 4 and 8 who sadly only know her and see her sitting in a wheelchair in her current state of dementia. I said to myself, “they need to know about their grandmother's livelihood and her truly extraordinary life story!”
Furthermore, I’m sure Theda’s story will inspire many people to be faithful, never give up, and persevere against all odds. When people see a role model and a great example of a life lived well, they are inspired and encouraged to do the same.
Who absolutely must read this book?
Anyone and everyone who wants or needs to be inspired to persevere against the odds, employ strong faith, and win in achieving their goals to become successful and absolutely happy!
What are the top 3 things children will learn from reading Theda’s story?
- Perseverance wins in the end! "Never Give Up!"
- Strong faith is imperative
- To believe in themself against all odds
What was the hardest part about turning her story into a book?
The hardest part of writing my first book, Papa The Popular Printer, was trying to find a mentor or a writer’s support group to get me inspired and start on the right path. When I finally found selfpublishing.com, I spoke with a coach and joined a Children’s Book group. Having supportive comrades, coaching, and writing templates helped me feel more confident and complete my book.
After PPP was published, I knew the proven process to write and publish, so I decided to share Theda’s story, too!
What has been your favorite part of this process?
I enjoyed creative writing, interacting with knowledgeable selfpublishing.com coaches, and my Children's Book Group Comrades.
What are your plans for the future with this book?
My plans are to continue to promote and market my books and the lessons one can learn from my books globally! I will continue advocating practicing Holistic Faith and encouraging one of the most important lessons of my life in the spirit of "never giving up no matter what!"
Has Lynette’s story inspired you to share your own? Learn more about the book writing support, editing services, book coaching, and more she received as a part of the Author Advantage Accelerator Elite Program? Schedule a consultation today or take the quiz above to find the right program for you and your book!
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