VALDOSTA, Ga. (WALB) — Most kids spend their third year of life learning their ABCs. Jaxxon Ashley spent his writing a book.

The South Georgia 4-year-old is the author of “What Is Astrophysics?” — a curious journey through space.

He published that book at just 3 years old. If that weren’t enough, Jaxxon is also a Mensa member, placing him among the highest-tested intellects in the world.

Jaxxon began reading at just 18 months old. His parents, Jacqulyn and De’Vaughn Ashley, noticed he could identify and pronounce advanced words—a spark that opened up an entire world of learning. Since then, he has developed a deep love for science, astronomy, and geography and has made it his mission to teach others.

“When he was a baby, I recorded videos speaking affirmations over him—telling him he was loved, intelligent, purposeful and capable of amazing things,” Jacqulyn said. “Years later, we can now pair those videos with footage of him confidently reading from his own published book in front of a crowd.”

Now at 4 years old, Jaxxon can identify all of the continents, oceans, planets and dwarf planets. His book, “What Is Astrophysics?” is inspired by that passion for space and is illustrated by his mom using photos of Jaxxon and his 2-year-old sister, Savvy.

For his 4th birthday on June 4, Jaxxon didn’t have a typical party. Instead, he hosted a public book reading and signing event at his local library—standing before an audience and reading aloud from the book he authored himself.

It was a moment his family had, in many ways, been building toward since before he could walk.

One of the Ashleys’ favorite things to witness is Jaxxon teaching his little sister, Savvy, who is already showing advanced abilities of her own.

For Jacqulyn and De’Vaughn, the story is bigger than one gifted child. It’s a message for every parent.

“His story is about literacy, parental involvement, early childhood learning and the importance of pouring into our children,” Jacqulyn and De’Vaughn said.

“What Is Astrophysics?” by Jaxxon Ashley is available now on Amazon.

Have a news tip or see an error that needs correction? Let us know. Please include the article’s headline in your message.

To stay up to date on all the latest news as it develops, follow WALB on Facebook, Instagram and X. For more South Georgia news, download the WALB News app and add WALB as a preferred source on Google.

Copyright 2026 WALB. All rights reserved.