Maryse Yvette Alexander is a children's author, educator, and the founder of EmpowerED Autism, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering children with autism and their families through education, environmental literacy, and community engagement. Inspired by her son Kai, Maryse writes gentle, meaningful stories that celebrate curiosity, learning, and the many ways children experience the world. Her books blend storytelling with science, everyday life lessons, and moments of discovery, encouraging young readers to explore nature, understand emotions, and develop empathy for themselves and others. Through her Little Lights: Stories of Neurodiversity series, Maryse creates affirming stories that support families, educators, and caregivers while highlighting the beauty of inclusion and understanding. Maryse lives in Virginia, where the Chesapeake Bay continues to inspire her writing and her passion for environmental education.