A talented group of local authors and illustrators is making waves in children’s literature right here in Fredericksburg. From lively picture books to captivating adventures perfect for tweens, these creators are engaging young readers with stories that spark imagination and foster curiosity — all in our own backyard.

Take a moment to discover Fredericksburg’s literary talent that is leaving a lasting impression on children everywhere.

Children’s Authors

Joy Fernandez
Author of “Little Bella’s Nighttime Wonderland”

Joy Fernandez takes readers on a magical journey through nature after dark in Little Bella’s Nighttime Wonderland. She uses her writing to inspire a love for the outdoors and a spirit of adventure in young minds. Fernandez is a realtor and freelance writer who lives just outside Fredericksburg with her husband and three children.

Reader review:
“I think Little Bella’s Nighttime Wonderland is a sweet bedtime story for any little girl. Both the written text and the illustrations are very calming and relaxing. I love how the author presented some fun woodland animals, which lead to a nice dream.” — Tonya Wilhelm

Paulette Harvey
Author of “Duchess of Woodbridge”

Paulette Harvey tells the story of Duchess, a cat adjusting to life with her new family. As Duchess embarks on adventures and meets new friends, Harvey captures the joy and curiosity of fresh experiences. She lives in Woodbridge, Virginia, with her family.

Reader review:
“Very cute story and great for kids!” — HappyHugger

Taryn Lewis
Author of “Miss Kite’s Bad Habit”

Taryn Lewis introduces readers to Miss Kite’s Bad Habit, a charming tale about a kite learning the importance of listening. A graduate of the University of Mary Washington with a degree in business administration, Lewis brings meaningful lessons to life through storytelling. She works full time in the insurance regulatory industry and lives in Fredericksburg with her husband and daughter.

Reader review:
“This book was one of the most refreshing reads for my toddler in a while. He loves books, but all of them have the same story — this one is different. Great for the parents, great message for the kids, and the illustrations are just the cutest!” — Cecely Newett

Candice F. Ransom
Contributor to “The Boxcar Children” and author of the Time Spies series

With more than 165 books for children and young adults, Candice F. Ransom is a prolific writer whose contributions to The Boxcar Children series and her original Time Spies series have earned her a loyal following. Ransom lives in Fredericksburg with her husband.

Reader review:
“Simple but exciting time travel stories for those just entering the chapter book world of reading. Definitely hand these to kids who are devouring Magic Tree House stories.” — Jennifer on Time Spies: Secret in the Tower

Steve Watkins
Author of “Down Sand Mountain,” “Sink or Swim,” and the Ghosts of War series

Steve Watkins is an award-winning author known for his compelling historical fiction for tweens. His novel Down Sand Mountain won the Golden Kite Award in 2008. His Ghosts of War series offers young readers a vivid, engaging way to explore history. Watkins has taught journalism, creative writing and Vietnam War literature. He lives in Fredericksburg.

Reader review:
“A sweet, funny, touching book. A great read for all ages. I absolutely fell in love with the characters.” — Sam on Down Sand Mountain

Children’s Book Illustrators

Troy Howell
Author of “The Dragon of Cripple Creek” and illustrator of the Redwall series

Troy Howell is the author of the tween novel The Dragon of Cripple Creek and an illustrator for the Redwall series by Brian Jacques. His illustrations have brought countless stories to life and earned him recognition in the world of children’s literature. He lives in Falmouth, Virginia.

Quote:
“As I’ve grown up, I’ve had as many (if not many more) questions and observations as my child self did. It’s no longer, ‘Who made the stars?’ It’s, ‘Why aren’t more books put into the hands of children?’ More importantly, ‘What’s going into their heads?’”

Joan Limbrick
Author and illustrator of “By Order of the King”

A graduate of Mary Washington College with a degree in studio art, Joan Limbrick is a painter, potter, poet and graphic designer. She recently wrote and illustrated By Order of the King and works out of her studio at LibertyTown Arts Workshop in Fredericksburg.

Quote:
“I paint from my imagination and love starting with that first touch of the brush on a blank canvas. The colors begin to sing and continue on to take me much further from where my original thought intended. The story evolves through the juxtaposition of color. To me, the process is like being swept up in a dream state. The color, music to my sight; the imagery, a story to tell.”

Nicole A. Myers
Illustrator of “Flip the Frenchie: A Treasury of Three Stories”

Nicole Myers is a fine artist and children’s book illustrator. Her work in various children’s publications showcases her vibrant, expressive style. She currently lives in Fredericksburg.

Quote:
“Painting allows me to travel these worlds in a unique way. I get to examine every color in a sun-kissed corner or a creeping, caressing shadow, and in doing so, I create for myself a portal. It transports me while I paint, and upon completion, it immortalizes that otherwise fleeting time and place, so that I may visit it time and again.”