14 Jun 2026 Author of the Month: Brandon D. Campbell

By Susan L. Peterson

Nothing matters more to Brandon D. Campbell than being a dad. But somewhere along the way, he realized that being the best father he could be meant that he first needed to take a hard look at himself.

That realization eventually led the Little Rock native to write and publish his first children’s book, “Oh Brother, My Brother.” Released in February, the book is aimed at children ages 6–11 and is designed to help families talk more openly — especially in blended families, where questions can sometimes go unasked or unanswered.

Told through alternating voices, “Oh Brother, My Brother” gives readers a front-row seat to sibling life — the playful teasing, moments of jealousy, the desire to belong and the comfort of feeling understood. The story is deeply personal. Campbell drew from his own childhood growing up in a blended family and the confusion he remembers feeling as a young boy. One of the book’s most distinctive features comes at the end of each chapter, where discussion questions invite kids and parents (or their caregivers) to talk through emotions together.

Campbell had always dreamed of writing a book, but it wasn’t until the COVID-19 pandemic, when families were experiencing mental challenges, that he had time to think about it. After a career disruption in 2023, he began writing, starting with reflections on his childhood and the memories that shaped him. Wanting the story to reflect more than just his own perspective, he reached out to family members to hear their experiences and insights on family dynamics.

He completed the manuscript in 2024 and began pitching it to agents and publishers. After more than 100 rejections, he finally found the right match with Holm Press. Even then, the work wasn’t finished. Campbell revised the book, hired an editor and illustrator, and waited patiently until the printed copies arrived in February.

He believes the discussion questions are the heart of the book. “When kids don’t get answers, they fill in the gaps themselves, and sometimes the narratives they create to fill the gaps can be psychologically damaging,” he said. “Those perceptions can lead to maladaptive behaviors that don’t serve them well later on.” Writing the book helped him in his own healing journey.

Campbell holds a Bachelor of Arts in journalism and mass communications from the University of Iowa. His career has taken him from Hollywood, where he produced shows for E! and later worked as a writer and producer for World Wrestling Entertainment, to entrepreneurship and economic development. He is also well-known in Arkansas as the founder of Little Rock Fashion Week, as well as in Plano, Texas, and Baton Rouge, La., helping launch careers in the fashion industry through initiatives across the South.

In 2025, Campbell and his family returned to Arkansas. He now lives in Bryant with his wife, Connie, and their three daughters. He’s intentional about sharing his personal and professional growth practices with his daughters to bond with them. The family enjoys traveling and makes it a point to visit as many aquariums as they can.

Today, Campbell realizes that his true mission in life is to help others. He now works in economic development and is also the creator of Publessed, an apparel line and mindset movement celebrating Black creators who value faith, family and purpose. Through his book, he hopes to foster understanding within families and help break cycles of trauma.

Response to “Oh Brother, My Brother” has been overwhelmingly positive. One therapist told him the book is “a perfect resource for bringing families together.” It is available online, but Campbell encourages readers to support local bookstores. “Even if they don’t have it in stock, they’ll order it,” he said.

Campbell enjoys sharing his story and is available to speak with schools, churches and community groups. To learn more, visit brandondcampbell.com or find his podcasts on YouTube.