1. Tell us something about yourself.
My name is Shawn Stewart, and I’m the creator behind the Bailey & Daisy children’s book series. I live in Brentwood, Tennessee, where I co-own several grooming salons called The Pampered Pooch, which also inspired my second book, Bailey & Daisy’s Day at The Pampered Pooch. I also have a background as a singer-songwriter, and those creative roots play a big role in my storytelling today. Our two rescue dogs, Bailey and Daisy, quickly became the heart and inspiration behind this entire world. I’ve always loved storytelling, and I’m passionate about creating books that bring joy to kids while teaching gentle lessons about kindness, teamwork, compassion, and friendship. Through my series, I hope young readers fall in love with these characters and feel encouraged to treat others—both people and animals—with love and understanding.
2. How and when did your journey start as a writer?
I’ve always known that storytelling was something innately within me—I just needed the right inspiration to bring it out. Bailey and Daisy gave that to me. Their personalities, their connection, and the little everyday moments with them naturally opened the door to creative ideas. The very first idea came to me one day when I was sitting on the back deck watching them run around. Daisy found a piece of paper over by one of the trees, and when I went to take it from her, Bailey ran over to join in. The three of us ended up playing together, and in that moment, something just clicked for me — I could see a story forming. That simple scene inspired the first book, Bailey & Daisy’s Great Treasure Hunt, and it became the beginning of the entire Bailey & Daisy Series. I also remember catching myself saying “Bailey & Daisy” over and over, and the way it rolled off my tongue felt so natural and memorable. That was when I realized I had something truly special—something I could build a whole world around. Being a singer-songwriter at heart also plays a big role in my creative process. Music has always been a part of who I am, and it’s how I came up with the Bailey & Daisy theme song. I feel like everything I’ve done creatively in my life has led me to this moment. To me, the Bailey & Daisy Series isn’t just a set of books—I see it as a brand, a franchise, and an entire universe. I see us growing into something as beloved as Bluey or Paw Patrol one day. That’s the level of joy, warmth, and impact I want to bring to children all over the world. As the ideas continued to grow, I realized I had finally found what I was truly passionate about, and it’s been one of the most meaningful and rewarding creative journeys I’ve ever taken.
3. Tell us something more about your book series.
The Bailey & Daisy Series follows two dog sisters, Bailey and Daisy, as they go on light-hearted adventures filled with mystery, friendship, and fun. Each book is written for ages 4–8 and is designed to bring kids into a world that feels playful, comforting, and imaginative. Bailey is the gentle, wise older sister, while Daisy is the energetic, curious, and sometimes mischievous younger sister who often finds herself in silly situations. Their dynamic makes the stories naturally entertaining, and kids instantly connect with their personalities. What makes the series unique is that each book also has a companion coloring book that follows the story page-by-page. Kids can read, color along, and truly feel like they’re part of the adventure. Parents, teachers, and librarians appreciate how it keeps children engaged while supporting creativity and comprehension.
To make the stories even more interactive, I designed a 22-piece sticker sheet featuring illustrations and characters from the books. Kids can use the stickers with the story or their coloring books, turning reading time into a fun, hands-on experience that encourages imagination. I also offer a collection of official Pup Pal merch and extras—including a Pup Pal certificate, bookmarks, buttons, stickers, temporary tattoos, wristbands, and other fun keepsakes. I designed and created all of these items myself, making sure each one reflects the heart and personality of the Bailey & Daisy universe. These extras help children feel even more connected to Bailey and Daisy and add an immersive, joyful layer to their reading experience.I even designed the official Bailey & Daisy Keepsake Box, a special place where kids can store their books, coloring books, Pup Pal items, and little treasures from each adventure. It adds a meaningful touch to the series and gives children a way to keep all their Bailey & Daisy favorites together.Another important part of the Bailey & Daisy Series is our give-back mission. For every sale, I donate 10% to rescue organizations and shelters—helping support animals who are still waiting for their own happy stories.Every story ends with a special message from Bailey and Daisy—something simple but meaningful—about friendship, kindness, compassion, problem-solving, or working together. My goal has always been to create books that are fun and memorable, but also leave children with something positive they can carry with them.Overall, the Bailey & Daisy world is full of warmth, humor, and heart—a place kids can visit again and again.
4. How did you create the magical system in your books and characters?
Bailey & Daisy don’t have super powers, and they aren’t magical characters—but what sets them apart from other stories and franchises is the chemistry between the two dogs. The books highlight how close they are and what a special connection they share. Bailey is the gentle, older sister who watches out for Daisy and does everything she can to guide and protect her. Daisy, being younger and still learning about the world, leans on Bailey for reassurance and direction. They balance each other in such a natural way that their everyday moments feel magical all on their own. When I started creating the Bailey & Daisy universe, I didn’t think about spells or fantasy powers. The magic comes from seeing life through their eyes—their reactions, their discoveries, and the way they approach every situation together. Their personalities shaped the tone of the series and created a warm, light-hearted sense of wonder that kids instantly connect with. So while there’s no traditional magic in these stories, the heart of Bailey & Daisy comes from their connection, their everyday adventures, and the simple, meaningful moments they share as sisters.
5. Do you want to leave any message for your readers?
The message I want to leave with young readers is simple: be kind, be compassionate, and always try to see the good in others. Bailey and Daisy’s stories are fun and adventurous, but at the heart of every book is a reminder to treat people and animals with love, patience, and understanding. I also want kids to know that just because someone looks different or behaves differently doesn’t mean something is wrong—those differences should be accepted and respected. It’s okay to not be like everyone else. The world is a much better, brighter place because of diversity. I hope children learn to embrace who they are, celebrate their personality, and appreciate what makes each person unique. Because Bailey and Daisy have brought so much joy into my life, it’s important to me that their books give back, too. That’s why 10% of every sale goes to rescue organizations and shelters—helping support animals who are still waiting for their own happy stories. The one thing I hope kids take away from the Bailey & Daisy Series is this: kindness matters, differences are something to embrace, and the world becomes a better place when we choose to care for one another.
