Press Release
Home

“Sparks to Stars: The Story of Astra & Zeke” Children's Book Launches on Kickstarter to Empower the Next Generation of Leaders

PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 24, 2025

Contact:
Leah Ellis
Founder & Executive Director
Society of Child Entrepreneurs
Email: leah@societyofchildentrepreneurs.org
Phone: (785)342-0029

Goddard-Based Nonprofit Launches Kickstarter for Children's Book Sparks to Stars: The Story of Astra & Zeke

Goddard, KS — The Society of Child Entrepreneurs (SoCE) announced today the Kickstarter launch of Sparks to Stars:
The Story of Astra & Zeke, a groundbreaking children's picture book that shows kids they don't have to wait to lead,
dream, or create — they can start right now.

Written by SoCE founder Leah Ellis and illustrated by M. Mrakota Orsman, the book introduces Astra and Zeke, two bold,
imaginative kids who help their friends turn sparks of ideas into something bigger. The story was inspired by real child
entrepreneurs in SoCE, a nonprofit dedicated to equipping youth ages 6–17 with hands-on business, leadership, and
financial literacy skills.

“Children aren't the leaders of tomorrow — they're leaders now,” said Ellis. “Through Astra and Zeke, we're giving kids
characters who reflect their creativity and courage, while showing families and communities the power of letting kids
step up and shine.”

The Kickstarter campaign officially launched on Sunday, August 24, 2025, and runs through September 14, 2025. Funds
raised will support:

High-quality illustrations by M. Mrakota Orsman

Printing and production of the first edition

Backer rewards including exclusive stickers, signed bookplates, and even the chance to have a name featured in a future
Astra & Zeke book

Every pledge also directly supports SoCE's mission to expand programming, host children's business fairs, and deliver
leadership curriculum across Kansas and beyond.

About the Society of Child Entrepreneurs (SoCE)

Founded in 2024, the Society of Child Entrepreneurs is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in Goddard, Kansas. SoCE empowers
children by fostering entrepreneurial spirit, leadership, and financial literacy. Through real-world experiences — from
business fairs to workshops to mentorship — SoCE equips kids with the confidence and skills to become innovative
leaders and change-makers in their communities.

Kickstarter Link: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/soce/sparks-to-stars-the-story-of-astra-and-zeke


Link: http://https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/soce/sparks-to-stars-the-story-of-astra-and-zeke

Submitted: 08/25/25
Article By: The Society of Child Entrepreneurs