JoAnn Dickinson Shares Her Inspiring Journey From Real Estate to Award-Winning Children’s Books
PHOTO: Children’s Author JoAnn Dickinson, Creator of Stories That Inspire Curiosity, Kindness, and Bravery in Young Readers
Celebrating Creativity, Courage, and the Power of Imaginative Storytelling
JoAnn Dickinson reveals her transition from real estate to children’s literature, highlighting her self-publishing success, story inspirations, and how she blends emotional growth and STEAM learning into magical narratives.
JoAnn M. Dickinson has created a captivating literary world where imagination, emotional growth, and a sense of wonder take center stage. Once immersed in the structure and demands of a real estate career, Dickinson has since blossomed into an award-winning children’s author, self-publishing over a dozen books that encourage bravery, kindness, and curiosity in young readers.
Her publishing imprint, Two Sweet Peas Publishing—named after her grandchildren—has become the home of several beloved series, including The Young Rylee Series, Lou’s Zoo Series, Amelia Ophelia Series, John’s Camping Series, and her middle-grade debut Secrets of Hawthorne Manor. Every story is rich with adventure and heart, weaving in elements of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) and social-emotional learning while never losing the magic that makes storytelling so powerful.
JoAnn Dickinson is a creative force whose heartfelt, imaginative stories empower young readers to explore, dream, and embrace who they are.
In an interview with Novelist Post, Dickinson spoke about her creative journey, what fuels her storytelling, and how she turned self-publishing into a thriving brand of her own.
“My real estate career was fulfilling,” she says, “but as life changed, I started feeling a pull toward something more creative.” That pull led her to writing—first just for herself, then for her grandchildren, and eventually for a growing audience of young readers. One of her earliest inspirations came from her grandson’s first camping trip, which became the foundation for her debut book, I Love To Go Camping. “I could see the wonder on his face when he told me about it,” she recalls. “That joy and curiosity lit something up in me.”
Dickinson often builds her stories around moments of serendipity. “Kids love the idea of surprise discoveries. Whether it’s a hidden box in a haunted house or a sprinkle that dreams of being a cookie, these unexpected twists lead to bigger ideas—friendship, courage, or finding your purpose.”
Her path to self-publishing wasn’t without challenges. “Like a lot of first-time authors, I didn’t know where to begin,” she admits. Fortunately, she connected with an author coach who helped guide her through every step—from formatting and layout to ISBNs and marketing. “It was a steep learning curve, but it felt empowering,” she says. Building a solid team of editors, illustrators, and designers has allowed her to publish four to five books a year. Naming her imprint after her grandkids made the journey all the more meaningful.
Writing Secrets of Hawthorne Manor, her first middle-grade novel, was a big leap from picture books. “It was a completely different process. With picture books, illustrations help tell half the story. But with middle-grade, it’s all about the writing. Kids rely on their imaginations more, and that creates a deeper connection.” She worked with a developmental editor to help build out the characters and plot, calling the experience both challenging and incredibly rewarding.
Dickinson’s books are known for their ability to blend fun, imaginative storytelling with deeper life lessons. “For me, everything starts with heart. I create playful, magical settings—like talking animals in a zoo or a spooky house full of secrets. Once kids are drawn into the adventure, I introduce themes like acceptance or resilience through the characters’ journeys. I never want the message to overpower the story. It has to unfold naturally.”
Her Lou’s Zoo series is especially close to her heart. “As a kid, I was quiet and introverted. I often felt like I didn’t quite fit in. There wasn’t much focus on creativity or emotional awareness back then,” she explains. “This series gives kids the message I wish I’d heard: it’s okay to be different, and everyone has something unique to offer.”
Though she started building her author platform on YouTube, sharing behind-the-scenes moments and writing tips, Dickinson has since shifted her focus to platforms where she’s built stronger reader communities. “YouTube was a great starting point. It helped me connect with families and fellow writers early on. Even though I’m not as active there now, it was an important part of my journey.”
For aspiring authors looking to self-publish, she offers clear advice: “Don’t cut corners. Invest in great illustrations, editing, and design—those things matter to kids and parents. Find a team that believes in your vision and respects your timeline. Creating something meaningful takes time, but if you stay focused and surround yourself with the right support, it’s absolutely worth it.”
JoAnn Dickinson continues to inspire children and families through her vibrant, heartfelt stories. Her journey from real estate to children’s literature is a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to follow your passion—and that sometimes, the most magical adventures begin with a simple shift in direction.
Source: Novelist Post Interview with JoAnn Dickinson
