Creating My Second Book: Finding Inspiration in the World Around Me

If there’s one thing I’ve learned as a children’s author and illustrator, it’s that stories don’t always arrive in big bursts of inspiration. Sometimes, they arrive slowly—like soft whispers on a walk, a funny moment with a child, or a tiny spark from something I see in my everyday life.

As I’ve been working on my second book, I’ve given myself permission to slow down. Unlike the whirlwind of excitement (and nerves!) that came with creating If Kids Were in Charge, this new project has unfolded differently. It’s quieter. More intentional. And honestly? It feels really good.

Inspiration Is Everywhere

One of my favorite things about writing for children is how endless the inspiration can be. Kids see magic in the smallest things—so why shouldn’t I?

This new book is being shaped by the world around me:• A conversation overheard in a classroom• A creature or character that pops into my imagination• A question from a student that makes me grin• Tiny everyday moments that stick with me• Scenes I catch while driving or walking—colors, moods, playful ideas• And yes… even the chaos of real life

Instead of trying to force an idea to become “book-ready,” I’ve allowed myself to collect these moments like puzzle pieces. Eventually, they begin fitting together naturally.

Giving Myself Time

When you’re excited about a project (and I am excited!), it can feel tempting to rush—just to see the finished product, to hold it in your hands, to share it with the world. But sometimes creativity needs space to breathe.

This time, I’m letting myself:

• rewrite pages without pressure

• sketch characters in multiple styles

• play with new ideas before committing

• step away when I need to recharge

• return when inspiration hits, not because a deadline demands it

The result? A story that feels more grounded, more imaginative, and more “me” than ever.

A Different Kind of Journey

My first book taught me so much—about publishing, about perseverance, about trusting my voice. But this second book is teaching me something just as valuable: patience.

Creativity isn’t a race.

Books don’t need to be made on anyone else’s timeline.

And sometimes, the most wonderful stories grow in the quiet spaces where we allow ourselves to slow down and listen.

What’s Next

I can’t wait to share more about this new book as it develops. For now, I’m continuing to write, sketch, imagine, and absorb all the magic the world offers me. And when the story is ready to be shared—I’ll know.

Thank you for being here for every step of this journey. Your support means everything as I grow not only as an author, but as a creator learning to trust the process.

Here’s to book two… one unhurried, inspired moment at a time. 🌿✨