It has been a while since I interviewed an author, so I was very glad that I came across Jackie’s booth. I’m also glad I did, because she is full of energy and super passionate about her educational children’s books. Below Jackie shares a bit about the business of being an author.

Jackie, can you describe what your business does?

I am a self-published children's author of seven books as well as an all-around creative mother who also runs a handmade business. As a children’s book author, creative maker, and mom, I'm on a mission to inspire young minds through storytelling and hands-on creativity. ✨

I write books that empower kids to try new things and express themselves. With a background in psychology, I see the benefit of therapeutic hands-on skills like painting, sewing, gardening, baking, or just managing big feelings! I also attend local vendor events, host crafting events, offer school author visits, and collaborate with libraries to spark creativity and confidence. 💡🧁📖

Where did the idea come from?

Honestly? My kids! 💕

I used to tell them bedtime stories based on our everyday lives and their wild imaginations. They loved them so much that I started writing them down. Each of my books is inspired by real children in my life. When I combined that storytelling passion with my creative hobbies like sewing and painting, my book series was born!

Losing my mom to breast cancer in 2024 was also a huge turning point for me. She was my best friend, and everything I do now is rooted in honoring her loving, dedicated, and joyful spirit. 💗As a military spouse who’s moved around a bit, I wanted something that could travel with me. As I was in Bahrain, I thought what is something meaningful that connected with people no matter where I lived.

I also studied psychology and care deeply about mental health. I know firsthand that creativity is healing for kids and adults. My goal is to remind people that they can be more than one thing and to never stop learning, creating, or dreaming. 🌱🎨 Take it from me I taught myself how to sew at 30, with the help of YouTube, of course!

Can you describe your typical work day?

I currently run my business out of my Cali home and am surrounded by a laptop, cameras, fabric, threads, books, and usually one of my three kids asking for something! 😂

My workspace is colorful, cozy, and full of inspiration from our global travels (we’ve even lived in the Middle East!). I continue to write or make things during the quiet moments, sew or paint when I need a break, and manage my marketing between school pick-ups and snacks. 💻🎨🌍

What are your best-selling books?

Right now, “Sabella Can Sew!” and “Penny Can Paint!” and "Whiny Whiny Whale" are always fan favorites!

The books are available on Amazon and through my website. They’re loved because they encourage kids to try something new and stick with it, even when it’s hard at first. Aside from my books, I make custom paint kits that are always hot sellers and hand-sewing goods as well.

What sets you apart from other businesses?

Love this question! I’m not just telling stories, I’m living them.

I’m a mom, a military spouse, a maker, and a mental health advocate. I blend all those roles into everything I create. My books aren’t just entertaining, they’re rooted in real-life values like resilience, sharing, confidence, and connection.

Plus, I offer interactive events and author visits that bring the books to life through crafts and storytelling! ✨

How is social media important to your business?

It’s everything! 📱

I use Instagram and Facebook the most to connect with families, educators, and librarians. I post life and fun behind-the-scenes peeks and creative tips. YouTube is a new territory I am tapping into after a year away from it, and it's growing for me, too. Doing studio vlogs and behind-the-scenes life of a creative, author, and doing vendor popups with my kids.

I create most of the content myself with Canva and CapCut as my go-tos! I do a lot of this business with my kids, or inspired by them, so you will catch my kids will even jump in. 💁‍♀️💻📸

What are your thoughts on technology today?

I've sure bitten the Apple. I’m team Mac for design and team iPhone for on-the-go content. I use Google Drive and Canva daily, and I back up everything with Dropbox or my hard drive.

Regarding all the work that the business requires, do you hire contractors, or does your family participate?

I have used sites like Fiverr to source web design and to find a personal assistant.

I designed my book layouts and did the typography. I also manage my social media and website, though I’ve considered bringing in a virtual assistant more regularly for when I launch my online site later this June. For now, it’s a homegrown operation powered by love, creativity, and tea. ☕👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

For finding new customers, doing outreach, and marketing, how do you manage this?

I use a simple email newsletter through MailerLite and collect sign-ups during events and visits. I post regularly on social media and track insights with Meta Business Suite.

I also use tools like Trello to plan campaigns and Airtable to keep track of my collaborations and school visits. My goal is to grow through meaningful, real-world connections — not just clicks! 💌📊 I also have a workflow through GoHigh Level.

Practically speaking, how do you balance work, growth, and personal time?

I schedule everything with blocks of time.

We take family trips often (cruise lovers here! 🚢) and I try to stay present when I’m with my kids. I also carve out solo time for reading, sewing, or just being quiet. But often time I do this after my kids are asleep or while they are at school.

One thing I need to mention is that the creative handmade business is something that I do not do alone. My kids help. From making the handmade items to being at the pop-up markets with me, they take an active role. I love seeing that I do not have to exclude my children and we make it a fun time. The growth in them as they interact with people and help with ideas for the business makes this a valuable family balance.

Regarding the environment, social issues, and being a partner to the community, do you have any specific things your business focuses on?

I focus on mental health and that is about treating everyone with kindness. I have always been a firm believer that what makes one person laugh might make another person cry. We never know what someone is going through.. My characters are all from different backgrounds (diversity and inclusion was on purpose), and these characters face relatable challenges. I aim to show every child that they belong and have something special to offer.

I also run crafting events that support community bonding and social-emotional learning.

What do you see as the outlook for the future of your business?

Big dreams!

In 5 years, I want to have a full calendar of school visits for the year and also have regular speaking engagements where I share my experiences from grief to goals. I would absolutely love to have a series of craft kits (outside of my already-made paint kits), that are tied to my book characters! I’d love to be able to partner with schools, libraries, and brands that support creativity and kids’ mental health.

Success to me means impact and inspiring others to live creatively and fully, at any age. 💕

Do you have a final thought for the readers?

To every parent, teacher, or creative out there — you’re doing better than you think. ❤️

And to anyone who’s ever said “I’m not creative,” I’m living proof that creativity can be learned and loved.

Let kids (and yourself!) explore. Try. Fail. Grow. It’s all part of the magic.

Come join my world. There’s room at the table for everyone!

Where can people find you online?

Here is where you can find me online:

Jackie and Canome Books LLC

It has been a while since I interviewed an author, so I was very glad that I came across Jackie’s booth. I’m also glad I did, because she is full of energy and super passionate about her educational children’s books. Below Jackie shares a bit about the business of being an author.

Samantha DeSoto and Sierra Delta Marketing