Laura May Olson

Born and raised in Seattle, Washington, I've been interested in creative writing and art illustration all my life. I studied art illustration through a correspondence course at the same Art Institution as Charles Schulz. That was before computers and digital graphics existed. I have always loved cartooning, and I think that reveals itself in the style of illustration I do in my book. I try to capture the imagination of children and create a story that resonates especially for them. Nothing is more precious than what little children can envision in their minds.

The creativity that flows through my book is reflective upon the way children view things...it's through their lens of imagination. The love and excitement my 4 sons had when we read children's books together, always brought such joy. And that is my goal, to recreate that with my book.

The Tooth Fairy is my very first published book and was inspired by my son John, to whom I am very grateful.

My second book, Imagine That, is a lighthearted story about a little boy on a summer's afternoon. It will resonate with anyone who, as a child, ever encountered animals in nature and pictured their daily life. A child's imagination is amazing, and it can take you on a wonderful, magical joyride.

My third book, A Play Day, was inspired by a friendship made at the age of 6.

There was a little girl who lived up the street from me. I was 6 and so was she, and one day she invited me to come over and play. She was so nice, with pretty hair tied up in ribbons and the most beautiful bedroom I had ever seen. It had her very own bed and nightstand, a shelved cabinet filled with toys, and a large toybox that completed the room. I’d never seen a Princess bedroom before, but this surely was what one must look like.

I remember the joy of playing with her all afternoon and feeling so grateful for the chance. And also surprised that even though she had every toy you could dream of, she wanted the fun of sharing them with me. That's when I discovered that friendship is more meaningful than a room full of toys.