In a world of smartphones, televisions and countless other screens, a pair of Bogalusa authors are trying to maintain a love of reading in the community’s children.

A.H. and Sally Slade began writing books on June 14, 2017, and have already completed nine of them, with two more set to publish soon. Most of their books are written for children, and the subjects range from a story about Santa Claus to a tale of barnyard animals.

“I think that every kid should enjoy a book,” Sally said. “If you look at cartoons and movies today, they’re often full of violence and bad language. Our books are wholesome and fun, and they’re something that kids and parents can enjoy reading together.”

Sally said that A.H. usually comes up with the plots for their books, and then she edits and proofs it to a final product. All of their books feature large-type lettering, and black-and-white illustrations so that the kids can color them if they wish.

In June, the Slades published a book titled “Swamp People and Their Way of Life.” Sally said this book is geared more toward older kids and adults, and gives additional detail to the “swamp people” theme that is the focus of popular television shows.

In fact, Bruce Mitchell of History Channel’s Swamp People program has even agreed to market the Slades’ book on his website, www.brucethealligatorman.com.

“We sent a copy of the book to (Mitchell’s) daughter and he loved it,” A.H. said.

The Slades’ books are available online at Amazon.com, by searching for “Sally Slade and A.H. Slade.” They are also available at the Hillbilly Mall on Louisiana Highway 21, or can be ordered directly from the Slades by calling 985-750-4023. Most of the books cost between $5 and $10 each.

One of the Slades’ books is about “Bullying and How To Avoid It,” and Sally said that several schools in the area now have copies of it for their students.

“It’s just about what to do if you’re bullied or see someone else being bullied,” she said. “In today’s world, it’s something important for kids to know.”

Both authors said that they started the books primarily for two reasons — to give kids in Washington Parish reading options, and also to give back to their community. The Slades take a portion of each book’s sales and use them for service projects such as Easter baskets, Christmas gifts, and Thanksgiving dinners for those in need.

“Last year we were able to help six families with dinner and presents for Christmas,” Sally said. “We’re hoping to be able to help even more this year.”

“If I can get them to sell, I’m going to do as much as I can to help Bogalusa,” A.H. agreed.

Both authors agree that their books are a gift from God, and they want to use them to do as much good as they can.

“God has led us to do this, and it is a blessing,” A.H. said.

“Once we come up with an idea for a book, we can usually finish it in less than a week,” Sally said. “The only way something like that can be done, is through God.”