How I Became a Best-Selling Children’s Book Author

When I first began writing, I had no plans of becoming a children’s book author. In fact, I was simply exploring storytelling as a way to capture family history and honor the legacy of those I love.

But as with many creative journeys, mine took a beautiful and unexpected turn—all thanks to the quiet persistence of an eight-year-old girl.

From Family Memoirs to Short Stories

I started authoring with a deeply personal goal: to write a book about the impact my mother had on ten people who call her “Mom.” That book became A Perfect 10.

Next, I decided to try my hand at short stories. I shared my piece Burden to Bear, learning how to craft emotion and meaning into brief, impactful narratives.

Capturing History for Future Generations

What began as a small idea—to write a book for my grandchildren about their heritage—grew into a much larger project than I originally envisioned. That work became Plainfolk: Stories from the Farm About the Impact German-Russian Farmers and Planer Colonists Had on Two Countries and Seven Generations.

The book included stories of our ancestors, rare photos, genealogical charts, and tales of the early days on the farm. It gave context to our roots and brought history to life.

My grandchildren were thrilled to see the finished product. One day, while flipping through the pages of Plainfolk with my eight-year-old granddaughter Jasmine—who was quickly becoming a confident reader—she spotted her name along with those of her brother, cousins, aunts, and uncles.

Her eyes lit up.

“Grandma,” she said, “you should write a children’s book.”

The Reluctant Children’s Book Author

I smiled and responded, “I’ll think about it.”

But inside, my thoughts were very different: No way. Not on this side of heaven. I have no idea how to write a children’s book—or even what I’d write about.

I kept those thoughts to myself.

On my next visit, Jasmine asked, “Did you write the book yet?”

“Not yet,” I told her. “I’m thinking about it.”

This went on for several months—her sweet persistence not fading. And then, one day, an idea popped into my head. I wrote it down, self-edited it, added some free clip art, printed it out on computer paper, and stapled it into a small 5x8-inch booklet.

The next time she asked, I handed it to her with a smile and a little flourish.

Jasmine lit up. “This is great!” she said.

But on my next visit, she asked again:

“Did you finish the book, Grandma?”

“I gave it to you last time.”

“No, not like that,” she said, shaking her head. “Like the other book.”

“Oh… you mean published—with a real cover and everything?”

“Yes, Grandma. I want to sell it to my friends.”

What Happened When I Wanted to Honour My Granddaughter’s Belief

Not wanting to let Jasmine down, I dove into the unknown. I researched. I read. I figured out how to publish a children’s book.

And in 2024, I self-published my third book, Silisia Dances Toward Her Dream.

Silisia Dances Toward Her Dream

An inspiring children’s book about perseverance, self-esteem, and the power of support from family and friends. Follow Silisia’s heartfelt journey as she faces challenges, overcomes doubt, and dances her way closer to her dreams—reminding readers that it’s never too late to pursue what brings you joy.

That’s how I unexpectedly became a children’s book author.

Satisfaction and Surprises

I was satisfied knowing Jasmine loved the book. That alone made it all worth it.

Then something even more surprising happened—Silisia Dances Toward Her Dream became a #1 Bestseller on Amazon!

Through IngramSpark, the book was distributed more widely, and to my amazement, four copies were sold in Germany. I could now say I was an international author.

And then came the moment that truly melted my heart. I nervously sat down to read Silisia aloud to a classroom of very discerning young readers—ages 7 to 9.

They clapped.

They smiled.

And they told me I should write more books. They wanted to read them.

The warmth I felt in that moment was indescribable.

A Dream I Never Knew I Had

Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine I’d write a children’s book. And certainly not one that readers would enjoy.

But sometimes, we do the impossible—not because we believed we could—but because someone else believed it for us.

And in my case, I couldn’t bear the thought of disappointing a little girl who believed her grandmother could do anything.