When I was little, my mom or dad would read to me before bed, and I would beg to hear more and more. I loved picture books, but reading on my own was difficult (I was even tested for dyslexia). Writing, on the other hand, came more easily. I wrote rhymes and stories for fun, and always kept a journal.
Reading to My Baby Brother
My love of writing truly began in third grade when my teacher, Mrs. Parenza, helped each of her students publish a book through Writer’s Workshop. We wrote, edited, and illustrated our stories; designed book covers; typed up our copyright pages. I felt like a real author at the age of nine!
My Very First Picture Book
While I was working on my degree in Early Childhood Development at Barrett, I enrolled in Literature in the Classroom. My professor opened my eyes to all the incredible possibilities for teaching with books, and I began to stockpile them (adding to my childhood collection) for my future classroom. It was about that time that I began volunteering at the Scottsdale Civic Center Library, where I would pick up used picture books for 10¢ a piece!
My First Job – Teaching First Grade
Following my Master’s program in Curriculum and Instruction, I landed a job as first grade teacher. I loved our Library days, and I would stay with my class, helping the librarian and secretly wishing I had her job. I wanted to be surrounded by books, sharing their wonder with students of all ages. At that point, I made up my mind to get a library science endorsement. Shortly after, I was hired as a Library Media Specialist in the Tempe School District.
When my husband and I decided to start a family, I planned to resign from my job to stay home with our baby. I read to him constantly and whenever I had a story idea of my own, I wrote it down. We had two more babies in the following five years, and my three sons became my inspiration. When my youngest started preschool, I went back to teaching Library part-time. I still wrote whenever I had the chance and dreamed of becoming a children’s author. A good friend of mine encouraged me to make a vision board. That year my first book, Starry’s Haircut, was published.
My Vision Board – 2015
It has been a whirlwind ever since! Aside from writing, my favorite part about being a children’s book author is visiting schools. I love reading aloud to young audiences, and school visits give me a unique opportunity to share my books and experiences with students.
A Visit to Biltmore Preparatory Academy
When I write, I keep children in the forefront of my mind – what fears they may have, what makes them laugh, what they might be curious about, and what may bring them joy. I hope this comes through in my stories!
I adore books, respect children, and believe in the power of reading! Welcome to my website!
~ Phoebe Fox