By Kent Clark
Known for his intriguing storytelling and persuasive writing, Robert J. Smith, MFA, is a celebrated author who has found an intense admiration among his vast pool of readers. Rising to fame with his debut release, SHORT ATTENTION SPAN DAN in TROUBLE? WHAT TROUBLE? Smith has become a favored author amongst elementary school students. His beloved character, Dan, is an ironworker who saves the orphans of Happyville from a building collapse, a compelling story that struck a chord with young readers.
Operating under Smith Comics, produced by the Robert J. Smith Productions Company, Smith’s inspiration bore from his familial roots. His father, Robert J. Smith II, grandfather, Paul M. Meunier, and cousin, Mark A. Mitchell, were all ironworkers, providing him with an authentic background to build his storylines around. Fusing his family’s history with his unique imaginative capabilities, Robert J. Smith, MFA, excels at creating catchy and engaging readings that instill a sense of excitement in his young audience as they learn the importance of writing skills during his volunteer school visits.
Today, Smith distinguishes himself further as he carries his literary repertoire into the realm of animation, aiming to bring his beloved characters to life. Currently, Smith is working tirelessly with a team of animators to develop the first short in the cartoon series for his wildly popular, SHORT ATTENTION SPAN DAN comics.
In this promising advancement to animation, Smith Comics and Robert J. Smith Productions plan to go beyond their inaugural storyline. Smith’s team is in the process of formulating additional episodes, including the Great Houdan, where Dan embraces his magician persona, re-enacting the breath-taking escapes of the world famous, Harry Houdini. Another featured episode, Wild Thing, You Move Me, introduces Wild Thing Movers, where our inimitable Dan moves furniture like nobody’s business.
As Smith deliberates on the developmental stages of the animated series, he reminiscences over his past interactions with eager young readers, explicitly stating: “Dan has made hundreds of children laugh in school presentations of our inaugural issue. I can’t wait to see Dan make millions of children laugh through a television series!” His words, carrying the promise of animated laughter rise with a simultaneous dedication to creating engaging content that not only captivates his audience, but also educates youngsters.
Smith’s evolution from an accomplished author to an upcoming animator reflects his continuous progress toward further creativity. His immense socially active presence can be found on various platforms including his official website (robertjsmith.com), business links (smithprofits.com/, robertjsmithproductions.com/), LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com/in/robertjsmithmfa/), IMDB (www.imdb.me/robertjsmith), Youtube (www.youtube.com/@RobertJSmithProductions/featured), and Twitter (twitter.com/SmithProfits).
Additionally, Smith’s expertise also features in Forbes through his insightful articles about movies and television (tinyurl.com/RJSmithForbesExpertArticles), which provide a sneak-peek into his creative philosophy and inspiring works.
As anticipations rise among fans and followers of Smith Comics, there’s no doubt that the upcoming animated series of SHORT ATTENTION SPAN DAN is destined to resonate with its enchanting storylines, strong characterization, and an inspiring real-life role model. This adventure from paper to screen pays tribute not just to Smith’s innovative storytelling but also to the legacy of the ironworkers in his family, ultimately paving the way for laughter, learning, and a literary legacy meant to last.
In developing his comic books into animated series, Robert J. Smith, MFA, invites his growing audience to share in a more dynamic and exciting experience of his tales, ready to instill a new wave of entertainment and education for the younger generation. As Smith Comics makes the leap into animation, there is the promising assertion that the fun, laughter, and learning are just beginning.
Published by: Aly Cinco