Author’s 20th book focuses on children with special needs

Published 5:00 pm Friday, February 27, 2026

Accomplished DeRidder author LaDonna Jarden will reach a milestone this week as her 20th self-published book hits shelves on Saturday.

Jarden has made a name for herself over the past 10 years, writing books that focus on empowering women, encouraging spiritual growth, and promoting self-improvement.

Now, she’s diving into a new category close to her heart and releasing a book that provides insight into the lives of children with special needs.

“A Day with No Words” introduces adults to the world through the eyes of children with autism spectrum disorder. Jarden said her purpose for the book is to educate the public and spark understanding in those who read its pages.

“My intention behind this book is to guide families, educators, caregivers, ministry leaders, and communities who want or need to have a better understanding of autism,” Jarden said. “I want to teach them how to respond to the needs of individuals with autism with knowledge, compassion, and practical tools.

“Sometimes, people see autism as something to ‘fix’, but I want this book to open their minds to the world as it is known to children with autism. I want readers to recognize that these children have unique strengths, challenges, and needs, and that as a community, we can create an environment they can thrive in.”

Jarden has served in the Beauregard Parish school system for 10 years, but she said it wasn’t until she earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology and began counseling students with mental health needs that she saw the need in her local community for a better understanding of the challenges some students are facing.

“I realized the need these students have for more understanding, advocacy, and support,” Jarden said. “I saw the lack of proper strategies in classrooms, like Applied Behavior Analysis therapy, and I felt God place a burden on my heart to do something about it.”

Over the years, writing has served as Jarden’s answer to that higher calling. With each release, she can pinpoint a specific intention and purpose that took place in her life at that time, and each book has taken her on a journey of growth.

“A Day with No Words” was no different, she said.

“This book isn’t just another release; it’s a reflection of my mission,” she said.

This latest work also allowed Jarden’s family the opportunity to experience her writing journey with her. The book’s illustrations were done by Jarden’s 12-year-old granddaughter, Yvette Curtis.

“It makes this project that much more special to me,” Jarden said.

“A Day With No Words” and all Jarden’s works can be purchased on Amazon, and she said she is working to launch a book signing event in the near future.