1. Life experiences reveal themselves in unexpected ways.
Author Cheryl Olsen
In my late teens and early twenties, I was drawn to dynamic, high-energy worlds. In college, the idea of being a race car driver was incredibly appealing—the speed, the excitement, that sense of invincibility we often feel when we’re young. Not long after, I found myself interning at a sports magazine in New York. Nikon camera in hand, gaining access to the sidelines of professional football, basketball, golf, ice hockey, and tennis events.I especially loved photographing boxing—the technical skill, mental fortitude, and strategy of a great fighter. And if you’re wondering—yes, jockeying for a spot along the sidelines among a sea of men was intimidating. But it also pushed me to find my footing, trust my instincts, and earn my place. It was an exciting and eye-opening time, particularly as the only female among photographers from major publications. That experience sharpened my ability to observe, to capture emotion in a single moment, and to appreciate the power of visual storytelling, something that continues to shape the way I create books today.
2. My path into writing was anything but traditional.
My college major was visual communications, and before writing children’s books, I spent years as a magazine publisher. It was my first real experience managing a team, where I learned how to listen objectively and work with a range of personalities—something that wasn’t always easy. I grew into that role over time, and it proved to be an invaluable life skill.That background gave me a strong foundation in how to tell a story both visually and through words, and how important it is to connect with an audience, children, in an engaging, meaningful way.
3. A horse changed the direction of my life.
Every once in a while, something crosses your path that changes everything. For me, it was my show horse named Lafitte. He not only inspired my first children’s book, Big Wishes for Little Feat, but also led me to become involved with the EQUUS Foundation, where his success helped support horses in need.That experience deepened my sense of purpose—both in storytelling and in giving back.
4. I believe children learn best when learning feels like discovery.
When I wrote Punctuation to the Rescue (UK edition out now), my goal was to make grammar come alive through character and adventure. I’ve always believed that when learning feels engaging and playful, it stays with you.That belief extends beyond writing, which is why I support BookSmiles, an organisation that places donated books into the hands of children in underserved communities across New Jersey and Philadelphia. Access to books for children sparks imagination, opens the door to new adventures, takes them to faraway places, and connects them with unforgettable characters. It teaches so many things and serves as a gateway to future learning.
5. The themes in my books are deeply personal.
Connection is at the heart of everything I do, whether through people, animals, or stories. It’s what I felt early on while capturing moments through a camera lens, and what I continue to feel when a reader connects with a story.Those quiet moments of recognition, when something resonates, are what stay with me and inspire my work. Perseverance, courage, kindness, and believing in yourself are at the core of every story I write. These aren’t just ideas—they’re values I’ve learned through life, passed on to my children, and I hope they resonate with readers in a quiet but lasting way.
6. Motherhood and horses have been my greatest teachers.
Some of life’s most meaningful lessons don’t come from a classroom—they come from experience. Raising my children has taught me patience, perspective, and the importance of leading with love. Horses have taught me something equally profound—trust, intuition, and the power of quiet connection.Both have shaped not only who I am, but how I tell stories. They’ve reminded me that growth takes time, that understanding isn’t always spoken, and that the strongest bonds are often felt rather than explained.
7. What I hope readers take away is a feeling.
More than anything, I hope my books leave readers—both children and adults—with a sense of possibility. Just like the young girl and little horse in My Lucky Star, dreams can unfold in unexpected ways, and sometimes all it takes is a little courage to follow where they lead.
My Lucky Star – out now online and in all good bookshops!
Follow Cheryl on: Instagram website: www.cherylolsten.com. Facebook. My Lucky Star
See our review HERE
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