Welcome, Mom’s Choice readers! Today, we had the opportunity to get with American author Jeanne Bender, who began her writing career at an early age and, thankfully for young readers, decided to create a children’s chapter book series: the Lindie Lou Adventure Series, which received a Mom’s Choice Award. This series is featured in the Children’s Book Council Showcase, chosen for their annual book launch segment by the New Zealand Literacy Association, highlighted on the cover of Publishers Weekly, and considered a “safe read” by teachers and parents everywhere. Kirkus Reviews has called the series ​“a gentle blend of storytelling, travelogue, reassurance, and reinforcement for children beginning to explore the world.” We couldn’t agree more. 

MCA: Jeanne, thanks for joining us today! Please tell us about yourself.

I began my writing career in the third grade. I love kids and decided to create a children’s chapter book series. These fun-filled adventures are presented in a large font format, and includes color illustrations. To prepare for this undertaking, I created “Team Lindie Lou,” a group of elementary school educators who advise me regarding age-appropriate subject matter. The Lindie Lou Adventure Series books are realistic, educational, and include downloadable learning activities. I live in Seattle, Washington; San Diego, California; and Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, but I consider the universe my home.

MCA: What inspired you to become an author, and how does your personal background or experiences influence your writing?

My cocker spaniel, named Lindie Lou, inspired me to write the series with adorable puppy characters who go on adventures. These characters encounter challenges and learn social-emotional life lessons (SEL), which are highlighted in red letters in the books.

MCA: What do you hope young readers will take away from your books?

My goal was to provide boys and girls ages 5-10 with easy-to-read books. My aim is to encourage children to advance from picture books into their first chapter books.

MCA: What do you find most rewarding about the writing process? Conversely, what are some of the challenges you face?

I love hearing from the kids, my readers. They look forward to my next book and encourage me with ideas they’d like me to write about. Some kids are even inspired to become a writer.

MCA: How would you say your books contribute to promoting family-friendly values or enhancing the lives of your readers?

The Lindie Lou Adventure Series books are written to promote family-friendly values. They are on the “safe-reading” list of many distributors. Lindie Lou’s adventures encourage children to reach beyond their boundaries, to discover the world in a positive way—meeting up with family and discovering new friends along the way.

MCA: Can you share any memorable moments or feedback from readers that have touched you or reinforced the impact of your work?

One day I was at a conference signing books in a cafeteria-like setting. One of the teachers stood up on a table and praised my writing style, the importance of my books because of their educational value, and told me how much the kids loved to read my stories. This brought tears to my eyes. When finished, she received a standing ovation from her fellow teachers.

MCA: What advice would you give to aspiring authors who are just starting their writing journey?

Believe in your story. Write, but remember to walk away and let the story sit on its own for a little while. Enjoy each part of the writing and publishing process. Build your team with people you trust but also people you have something in common with. It’s ok to laugh and to cry and to be frustrated. This is all normal and part of the process.

MCA: What is next for your adventure series?

Twelve books are planned for the Lindie Lou Adventure series. My ultimate goal is to encourage children to discover the world through the eyes of Lindie Lou. Also, I should mention the educational materials available by download from the lindielou.com website, i.e., Fun Facts, Quick Quizzes, Coloring Pages, Character Comparisons, Mazes, and more. Teachers love these educational sheets.

MCA: Jeanne, thanks so much for joining us today! We wish you the best as you continue to create enriching content for young readers.