G. Todd Smith releases historical fiction novel inspired by family story

G. Todd Smith has released Josie: A True Story of Race, Rescue, and Resilience, a novel rooted in a 1906 Mississippi family story about a Black newborn rescued by a white businessman. The book launched Sept. 26 at the Mississippi Book Festival and is now available in print and digital formats.

Why it matters: - Josie turns a private family story into a public account of race, faith, compassion and survival in the Jim Crow South. - The novel highlights how individual choices can challenge social boundaries and shape generations. - The release adds another historical fiction title centered on overlooked Black Southern history.

What happened: - G. Todd Smith released Josie: A True Story of Race, Rescue, and Resilience on Sept. 26 at the Mississippi Book Festival in Jackson, Mississippi. - Smith joined The Past, Rewritten Historical Fiction authors panel at the Mississippi State Capitol during the launch. - The book is inspired by the true story of Josie Evans, a Black child whose life changed after a white Mississippi businessman rescued a Black newborn in 1906.

The details: - Smith describes the book as rooted in meticulous historical research and scenes that fill in gaps where the record is incomplete. - The novel focuses on themes of faith, family, compassion, sacrifice and hope. - Smith said the story is his family’s story and that he has known Josie for much of his life. - The book asks what love, courage and responsibility look like when society enforces racial separation. - Josie is published by Leaders Brands and distributed through IngramSpark. - The book is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Apple and other online platforms, as well as in bookstores and libraries. - ISBNs listed for the book are 979-8-9970761-1-5 for hardcover, 979-8-9970761-2-2 for paperback and 979-8-9970761-0-8 for ebook.

Between the lines: - Smith’s background as a journalist, communications strategist, public relations executive and branding consultant likely shaped the book’s polished framing and public launch. - The story’s central tension is not just historical; it also speaks to present-day questions about fear, empathy and inherited responsibility. - The novel’s appeal appears aimed at readers of inspirational historical fiction and true stories of resilience.

What's next: - Josie is now on sale across major book retailers and online platforms. - Additional promotion is likely to continue through author events, bookstore placement and library circulation. - Smith is positioned to use his media and branding experience to expand the book’s reach.