Q: First, tell us something about yourself.
I am a mom of two grown college kiddos and we are a house divided with one attending the University of Texas in Austin and one at Texas A&M, love coaching and playing tennis, traveling and adventure. Once even rappelled down the side of a hotel to raise money and awareness for literacy and the importance of public libraries. I am a Registered Sanitarian and a Certified Professional in Food Safety with over 20 years of experience in healthcare, regulatory, and food service. I have spent my career developing and managing programs that protect public health and promote safe food practices.
My mission in writing this book is to make food safety approachable for children, families, and communities—using storytelling, education, and creative outreach to turn technical lessons into fun, everyday habits.
Q: How and when did your journey start as a writer?
I have always wanted to write a book since I was in my twenties and I had a milestone birthday approaching and had it on my “bucket list” to complete beforehand. I strongly believe you are never too old to chase your dreams.
Q: When did you write your first story? Is it published or not?
I started writing this book a year ago and told no one just in case I never completed it. I am a big believer in goal setting, but wasn’t sure of how my journey would go as a writer. I have learned so much during the journey and am here to share with others that one to bring their books they have written to life. Yes, it is published and is offered for purchase in local book stores, Amazon, and Barnes and Noble.
Q: Tell us something more about your books.
I am actually working on my second book right now and hope to have it out this October. With a background in nutrition, dietetics, public health and food safety, my books are to expose and educate young children on the importance of those concepts and instill it in them at a young age. Birdie’s Picnic Party is all about planning a fun picnic with friends while keeping food safe to eat. My next book, Birdie returns with her friends to the kitchen to teach young children the importance of fueling their bodies with healthy foods and how eating healthy can be fun and good for you.
Q: How did these stories and characters come to your mind?
The main character is named after my daughter, Ryann. Her nickname as a baby was “Birdie” her grandmother named her that for her cute little baby bird faces she would make. My daughter inspires me daily and I wanted a special tie to the book and her, so the main character is Birdie, the blue bird.
Q: Do you want to leave any message for your readers?
Teaching kids food safety and nutrition early gives them healthy habits for life—and turns everyday meals into moments of learning, confidence, and love. When children learn safe habits in the kitchen and understand the value of nourishing foods, it becomes second nature as they grow.
Website: http://www.jessicanicolemcanellybooks.com/
