Hi! I’m Jessica, and I make stuff — usually books, mostly for kids. The amazing thing that would’ve blown my mind when I was a kid is that I get to be involved in making books in a lot of different ways. (That and the fact that I get to meet so many authors and illustrators…it really is the coolest!)
As an author/illustrator, my first picture book, Old Tracks, New Tricks, tells the story of three little wooden train tracks who shake up an old train set that’s very set in its ways. It was was inspired by the family adventures I’ve chronicled on my kid’s activity blog, Play Trains!
I’m also a children’s book editor at The Innovation Press, where I’ve had the joy of working on everything from board books to middle grade novels, including the award-winning Zoey and Sassafras books and the Amazing Scientists series.
I live in Seattle with my husband, son, and two ferocious kittens, Ace and Quill. Our family room is a cross between a maker space and a gaming cafe, which tells you a lot about our hobbies. I also love getting out to hike or bike through our beautiful PNW world.
You can find me on Instagram (j_e_petersen for book and illustration stuff, playtrains for train fun) and Twitter (@j_e_petersen), and I share my thoughts on the writing craft and the writing life as a regular on the Your Writing Does Not Suck podcast.
Interviews
Two Debut Interview: Jessica Petersen (5/4/17)
The inspiration behind the digital collage illustrations in Old Tracks, New Tricks, why I love writing dialogue, advice for writing your second book, what pen name I’d choose, the most fun job I’ve had (other than being an author/illustrator), and more fun facts.
Will Write for Cookies: Jessica Petersen (3/11/17)
Writing advice I wish I’d known when I started out, a picture book author/illustrator who inspired me during a visit to my elementary school, why I write for children, and the best chocolate cupcakes ever.
Picture Book Buzz: An Interview with Jessica Petersen (3/6/17)
The process (and challenges) of illustrating a picture book with photos, how and why I started writing for children, my odd imaginary friend as a child, and more!