Meet Hayley J. Skinner

TPJ: Hi Hayley! Thank you for taking the time to share some of your indie author story with our readers. Let's start by talking about who you are and your background before publishing your books.

SECTION 1 — Author Information

TPJ: How would you describe yourself in a nutshell for readers who are just meeting you?

HJS: I'm a children’s book author and creative storyteller from Texas who believes that books should make readers feel safe, seen, and loved. My work is inspired by real moments, real emotions, and the people who have shaped my life. I specialize in writing heartfelt, meaningful stories that blend comfort, imagination, and gentle messages of reassurance—stories families can return to again and again.

When I'm not writing, I enjoy cruising, crafting planners, spending time with my husband and our two dogs, and dreaming up new projects.

TPJ: Where can readers connect with you online? (Website, social media links)

SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS:

Facebook -

https://www.facebook.com/hayley.jo.skinner

SECTION 2 — Books & Writing Background

TPJ: Before you became an author, what was life like for you? Any experiences that shaped your storytelling?

HJS: Before becoming an author, I worked as a medical assistant . I’ve always loved helping people and being hands-on, but writing was where I found my true creative outlet. My background in caregiving and supporting others plays a huge role in the comforting, emotionally supportive tone of my books.

TPJ: What sparked the idea for your very first book?

HJS: Alex's Big Pitch was inspired by the idea of wanting children to feel they can reach any dream and continue even when they dont succeed. I wanted to create a story that gave little ones comfort, courage, and the reassurance that they don’t have to face the dark alone.

TPJ: What genres feel like “home” for you—and why do they speak to you?

HJS: I write children’s picture books, journals, and planners — and I’m expanding into fiction chapter books. I love writing for kids because their imaginations are huge, their hearts are tender, and stories have the power to shape them in such beautiful ways.

TPJ: How many books have you written so far?

HJS: I have written quite a few from Alex's Big Pitch, A Refinery Tale, and The Watchman, to High Tides and Highlights.

TPJ: Before writing your first book, did you know anything about genres, tropes, or publishing?

HJS: I knew very little — especially about the business side of publishing. What surprised me most was how much goes into metadata, distribution, ISBNs, formatting, and marketing. There’s a whole world behind the scenes, but I’ve loved learning it.

SECTION 3 — Writing Process & Experience

TPJ: Are you more of a planner or a “write as it comes” kind of author?

HJS: I’m a hybrid...I outline the big emotional beats, but I let the story tell me the rest as I go. I write from the heart first, then revise with structure in mind.

TPJ: Do you have a favorite time of day to write—or any quirky rituals that help you get in the zone?

HJS: Evenings are typically when I write the best. I will make sure I have my jazz music on and something good to drink like tea!

TPJ: What’s been your biggest challenge as a writer, and how did you push through it?

HJS: My biggest challenge was believing my work was “good enough.” I overcame that by reminding myself that stories don’t have to be perfect, they just have to be honest.

TPJ: Why did you choose the self-publishing route? What does that freedom mean to you?

HJS: I chose self-publishing because I wanted full creative control, the ability to move at my own pace, and the freedom to bring my book to life exactly the way I envisioned

SECTION 4 — Themes, Characters & Readers

TPJ: Who do you imagine reading your books? Who are you writing for?

HJS: My ideal reader is anyone who needs comfort, parents looking for calm and meaningful bedtime stories, and families who appreciate soft, heartfelt storytelling and those that just want to dream!

TPJ: What messages or themes do you hope readers take away from your stories?

HJS: Comfort, courage, protection, love, and emotional reassurance. I want every child to feel safe and supported when they read my books.

TPJ: Do you have a character that feels especially close to your heart? Tell us why.

HJS: Alex from Alex’s Big Pitch holds a very special place in my heart because that character was inspired by my brother. Growing up, we spent countless days at baseball fields, game after game. He was out there living his dream, and I was right there on the sidelines watching it happen.

TPJ: Can you share a favorite scene or line from your work that still makes you smile?

HJS: One of my favorite moments in The Watchman is when the child realizes that even in the darkest night, they are never truly alone; there is always someone watching over them.

SECTION 5 — Life Beyond Writing

TPJ: When you’re not writing, what brings you joy? Any hobbies or creative outlets?

HJS: Cruising, journaling, creating planners, photography, designing graphics, and exploring new creative hobbies.

TPJ: Tell us about your family or pets—our readers love these personal touches!

HJS: My family may be small, but they’re the biggest supporters I could ever ask for. My German Shepherd, Maggie, listens to every idea I throw at her… not that she really has a choice! 😂

TPJ: What’s one fun or surprising fact about you that readers might not expect?

HJS: People are usually surprised to learn that I juggle writing with a medical background and that I taught myself the entire publishing process from scratch.

SECTION 6 — Looking Ahead

TPJ: What’s next for you? Any exciting projects or books on the horizon?

HJS: Right now, I’m working on a psychological thriller for older teens and adults, and at the same time, I’m creating another children’s book as well.

TPJ: Where do you see your author journey five years from now?

HJS: I hope to have a full catalog of children’s books, journals, and novels and to be stocked in major bookstores, doing events, school visits, and signings.

TPJ: Where’s the best place for readers to follow your work and join your community?

HJS: Facebook