Meet Amanda Brindley, picture book author

A literary meet-'n'-greet in 10 pictures or less

Have you ever dreamed about writing a picture book? I know I have.

Today, we’re meeting someone who turned that dream into a reality.

Amanda Brindley is a proud introvert, who adores her nieces and faithfully tends her houseplants. You might find her baking sourdough bread, having ice cream picnics, or collecting seashells on the waterfront.

I’m so excited for you to get to know her.

Now, I’ll let Amanda take it away!

All About Amanda

I grew up in southern Maine, where I started writing stories in the wee hours of the morning when I was six. As a child, I loved ice cream shops with cows to visit and old libraries full of books.

I grew up to also love wildflowers, mountains, traveling, camping, gardening, and spending time with friends—children and grownups—in New England and beyond.

I’m a nanny to my cousins, three little girls who keep me laughing, busy, and looking out for owls, trains, contrails, and questions like only a two-year-old can.

I live in Ohio, but listening to crashing waves and breathing in briny ocean air as the tide recedes is still my favorite thing in the world.

I’m obsessed with freshly cut flowers, ice cream, french press coffee, artwork from the girls I nanny, picking up seashells and rocks next to the ocean, Scotland, and houseplants.

Interesting things I’ve done? Solo-camped in state and national parks in Maine and PEI for a couple of weeks one summer; hosting tea parties for friends; helping plan and celebrate a seder dinner during Passover for my church small group; nighttime kayaking in Scotland with bioluminescent plankton.

Some of my favorite movies are The Secret Life of Walter Mitty, The Emperor’s New Groove, and Mad Max: Fury Road. I also think How I Met Your Mother is one of the best sitcoms of all time.

What writing teachers or craft books did I learn from? William Ferguson (Ferg), my high school AP English teacher, who taught me to be ruthless and concise and to write essays in 40 minutes or less. And Walking on Water by Madeleine L’Engle.

Amanda’s Picture Book

Doodle’s Mountain by Amanda Brindley, illustrated by Sofia Rector

While on a summer vacation with his family, young Doodle is overwhelmed by his noisy surroundings. He spends his vacation saying “Shhh…” to all the noise around him—until he encounters something new and quiet.

Here’s how you can connect with Amanda

I hope you enjoyed getting to know Amanda as much as I did.

Here’s where you can find her on Instagram and Goodreads.

Be sure to connect to stay updated on Amanda’s writing journey.

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Thank you, Amanda, for chatting books today!

And thank you for being here, readers.

Catch you next time,

Michelle