1. I hear you have a cat and other animals in your children’s books. Tell us about the books.

Yes, I have a deep love for animals, which is why they feature so prominently in my children’s books. One of my favorite series is The Jellibean Adventures, which stars a rainbow-hued cat named Jellibean who loves to explore and travel. In addition to that series, I’ve written other books that introduce young readers to more unique creatures, including an elephant, sea turtles, and even a porcupine pufferfish.

Jellibean Adventures started as a poem I wrote for my two six-year-old nieces, who live in different states, far away. Creating Princess Jellibean was my way of staying connected with them and sharing a bit of joy across the distance.

 

2. Why did you add a rainbow-hued cat to these books?

The idea of a rainbow-hued cat felt natural because her name, Jellibean, was inspired by the colorful candy. I wanted her to be vibrant and full of life, just like the adventures she goes on. I based her on a calico cat, and I did a lot of research on that breed to ensure that her personality and traits would feel authentic to readers. What’s funny about having a cat as the main character in my series is that I’m allergic to cats! I absolutely love them and all things furry, but I can’t have one myself. Instead, I have a rescued chiweenie named Oliver Twist, who keeps me company and inspires a lot of my love for animals:

 

3. Tell us about some of the other animal characters in the series?

Jellibean’s world is full of animated animal characters, like a bear who’s a baker, some playful parrots, and her best friend, Lady Jane, a cheerful dog. One of my favorite books in the series is Mama’s Map, where Jellibean meets Penelope, a shy possum who’s lost her way home. Together, they follow clues to help Penelope reunite with her family, all while teaching kids the basics of reading a map.

Mama’s Map Blurb:

Shy Penelope Possum is lost, and she’s not sure how to find her way home. Luckily, Princess Jellibean is ready to help! Together, they embark on a heartwarming quest, following clues and discovering more than they expected. In this second book of the Jellibean Adventures series, join Princess Jellibean and Penelope for a journey filled with friendship, fun, and surprising discoveries—because the best adventures are always just around the corner!

Mama’s Map: http://myBook.to/Jellibean2

Another one of my favorite books is Bunky & Lulu: Find Their Place, which tells the story of a clown and his elephant best friend. After retiring from the circus, they get bored and start looking for odd jobs together—with hilarious results! A word of caution: elephants should definitely not serve ice cream! There’s plenty of silliness as they stumble through different roles, until they finally find the perfect job where their unique talents shine, helping others in a way only they can.

Bunky & Lulu: Find Their Place Blurb:

Bunky the clown and Lulu the elephant are ready for a new chapter after their circus days, but retirement just isn’t exciting enough! Together, they set off to find the perfect job—though they quickly learn that not every role is a good fit (hint: elephants and ice cream don’t mix!). Join Bunky and Lulu on a hilarious adventure as they discover where their unique talents truly belong!

Bunky & Lulu: Find Their Place: http://myBook.to/BunkyLulu

My most recent book, Fish Patty, is the first in a new series called Fish & Fin. It’s about a young girl who dreams of becoming a marine biologist. The story follows her as she navigates her parents’ divorce and adjusts to life in a small town after moving with her mother. Along the way, she forms a special bond with a fish at her uncle’s shop. When that fish disappears, she meets a new friend who shares her passion for marine life. The story introduces kids to some fascinating fish species, and I spent six months researching marine animals to bring authenticity to the story!

Fish Patty Blurb:

Eight-year-old Patty has big dreams of becoming a marine biologist, but life hasn’t been easy. She’s had to navigate her parents’ divorce and adjust to a big move to a small town where everything feels unfamiliar. Eager to make a friend, Patty finds companionship in the most unexpected place. But when her new friend suddenly vanishes, Patty embarks on an emotional journey, discovering powerful lessons about friendship, love, and learning to let go.

Fish Patty: https://mybook.to/FishPatty

 

4. Tell us about your kudos or reviews.

There have been many wonderful reviews on Amazon, Goodreads, and Readers Favorite websites. My book, Ishkabibble Unafraid, received Honorable Mention in the 2023 Purple Dragonfly Awards. It also received the Bobos Babes Heart Award Seal! My book, Kai the Loneliest Palm Tree, received Honorable Mention in the 2022 Purple Dragonfly Awards. My book, Grandpa Moon, won First Place under the Family Matters Category in the 2021 Purple Dragonfly Awards.

 

5. Where can readers learn more about your books and connect with you online?

Links:

My website: WriteCute.com

Instagram.com/WriteCute_Stories

Facebook.com/WriteCuteStories

Publisher page: https://www.crimsoncloakpublishing.com/cindi-handley-goodeaux/

Amazon author page: amazon.com/author/cindigoodeaux

 

MARCIA: Thank you, Cindi, for being my November interviewee! I look forward to recommending your books to my family and friends who have children!

MONTHLY BLOG EBOOK CONTEST! Would you like to win a Marcia James’ ebook? Visitors to this pro-pet blog can join in the fun, comment, and/or share photos of their pets for a chance to win one of my ebooks!

Each month, I’ll randomly pick one blog commenter to win. To leave a comment and/or a photo, click on the word “Reply,” which is just below the social media icons for THIS interview. (Don’t scroll past this interview to the next interview.) Go Pets!