The Soul of My Pen: How Ashley Van-De-Cruize Lampkin Is Writing Black Superheroes Into the Spotlight

For author and creative powerhouse Ashley Van-De-Cruize Lampkin, storytelling isn’t just a gift—it’s a mission. Through her literary brand, The Soul of My Pen, Ashley is building a vibrant world of narratives rooted in African and Caribbean culture, with a bold new comic book at the center of it all: Na Makasi.

Since launching her creative journey three years ago, Ashley has authored three books and recently released Na Makasi, a comic that celebrates a powerful, culturally grounded superheroine. The response has been overwhelming. “It’s been selling out on my website,” she shares, proudly noting that she’s surpassed $12,000 in sales and is gaining traction with merchandise as well.

A natural-born storyteller, Ashley leveraged social media as a launchpad. From Instagram and Facebook to TikTok and YouTube, she built a loyal audience that connects with her authenticity and vibrant creativity. “I told myself that if I build a reputation as a storyteller, people will see the value in my written work,” she explains. And they have—Na Makasi is more than just a comic; it’s a cultural statement.

But the journey hasn’t been without obstacles. Access to funding remains one of the greatest challenges. “Business loans aren’t as easy for us as they are for our Caucasian counterparts,” Ashley admits. “When I attend conventions or networking events, I hear others talk about taking time off or easily getting funding—and it’s hard not to question what you’re doing wrong when you know you’re bringing just as much to the table.” Still, she pushed forward with unwavering resolve. “I knew from the start I’d have to work harder. And I’m okay with that.”

What truly sets Ashley’s work apart is her cultural lens. Every story she writes is rich with African or Caribbean roots. “These cultures have their own stories and a wealth of history that deserves to be spotlighted,” she says. “I want to use my voice to bring that to life, and I love the way my community has responded.”

Ashley’s work isn’t just for entertainment—it’s a blueprint for empowerment. “I want young Black boys and girls to see themselves in my stories,” she emphasizes. “Whether as superheroes, chefs, doctors, or creators—they need to know they are worthy of being the center of beautiful narratives.”

Her proudest moments? Seeing her book sales grow organically through her own website, and witnessing the excitement from readers who finally see themselves represented on the page. “Even though I’m not an Amazon bestseller, knowing that I built this myself, and that my community is behind me, feels even better.”

Join Ashley’s journey and explore Na Makasi and more at www.dirtywordsmith.com, or connect with her across platforms:

• Instagram: @TheSoulofMy_Pen
  
• Instagram: @na_makasi_comic_book
  
• Instagram: @yoursun_mymoon_ourstars
  
• Linktree