Renaee Smith, was born and raised in Montego Bay, Jamaica. She is a wife, and mother of three boys. "The Great Compost Heap" was inspired by her son's science experiment as it reminded her of growing up in Jamaica and having her own compost heap from which she was able to grow delicious pumpkins and tomatoes. Renaee Smith is also the author of "Jamaica's Forgotten Treats" and "Memba When." Renaee Smith was also the winner in the Best First Cookbook category for Jamaica in Gourmand World Cookbook Awards 2013.