Local Author/Illustrator Strives To Turn Loss Into Love, Conflict Into Conversation

Local Author/Illustrator Strives To Turn Loss Into Love, Conflict Into Conversation

Local author Todd Schimmell has a wealth of life experience that he pulls from as he creates hilarious, yet heartwarming poetry and illustrations for the entire family. Todd serves as a School Resource Officer (SRO) for the Vanderburgh County Sheriff’s Office and in Todd’s latest book, you see his wisdom shine through more strongly than ever.  Smile and Soul introduce new characters that are relatable – and just plain fun for the reader to engage with. Todd’s take on self-esteem, doubt, mistakes, humor, conflict resolution, and other socio-emotional topics challenges us to flex our emotional intelligence muscles and think outside the box. From farts to faith, Todd’s work takes the reader on a ride.

One Amazon review says, “I’m a huge fan of Shel Silverstein and this took me way back to reading his books in the library as a kid! I’m almost 30 and these stories had me giggling like a little girl. Everyone can find something to enjoy in this collection! The illustrations add so much to the atmosphere of the collection as well. Not to mention it touches on the important topic of mental health. This collection helps to show children, and grownups, that smiling never gets old. Definitely an experience that should be had by children and adults alike.”

Alongside his wife and biggest fan Kirsten, they own Compassio Veraque LLC, a publishing company through which his work comes to paper and into the hands of readers all over. They have happily married parents of 5 beautiful children and one fur pup. Todd draws inspiration from his family and their unwavering support. Despite all their blessings, Todd and his family have struggled with periods of major loss and extreme grief in their lives. October is National Perinatal Loss and Bereavement Month. Recently, Todd had the honor of sharing the story of his late son Theo, who passed away in 2017 shortly after birth, on Deaconess Women’s Hospital Podcast.  Todd writes on his Facebook page to commemorate the special month – “Out of all the stories I’ve written or will write; Theo’s story will always be my favorite! It doesn’t matter how long you have been with someone. A moment can change everything. Be ready for that moment.’ 

Public service and ‘family-first values have always been prevalent in Todd’s life. Todd followed closely in his father’s footsteps. While serving as a firefighter, Todd’s dad also grew to be known as a talented writer and artist who illustrated a children’s series at the end of his career. Unfortunately, his father was forced into early retirement due to his ongoing fight with Parkinson’s Disease. The book ‘Smile and Soul’ were dedicated to Todd’s father as he continues his fight.