About Jamie Tafoya
My journey into writing children’s books began after a personal loss that changed my family forever. When my son Jonah and I lost someone very important to us — his dad — I went searching for stories that could help him make sense of what he was feeling. But I couldn’t find anything that felt both honest and gentle enough to meet him where he was.
That experience showed me how important it is to talk with children openly — about grief, yes, but also about all the big things we often hesitate to name.
Why I Write Books for Real-Life Moments
My first book, I’m Small, but I Lost Someone Big, was inspired by my son Jonah’s strength and our shared journey through grief. What helped him most was knowing he wasn’t alone — that other kids had lost someone big, too.
Our story launched a deeper mission for me: to create books that help families have the kinds of conversations we often struggle to start — about loss, addiction, step-parents, mental health, and all the complicated, beautiful realities of growing up.
Helping Kids Feel Seen — and Helping Grown-Ups Feel Ready
I write for the child who’s feeling confused or scared — and for the adult who doesn’t know quite what to say but wants to show up anyway. My books are gentle tools for those tender moments, helping kids feel seen and supported, and helping grown-ups feel just a little more confident when the big questions come up.
Whether your family is navigating a loss, adjusting to change, or just opening space for empathy and emotional growth, my stories are here to walk with you.
A Glimpse Into Our World
When I’m not writing, you’ll find me dancing at punk or EDM shows with my husband, chasing after Jonah and Adelina, or spending time with our three hectic (but loving) dogs — Ben, Penny, and Max. Our life is full of movement, chaos, healing, struggles, and joy. That’s the kind of family I write for — and write from.
Want to work together?
If you’re looking for someone who can speak honestly—and gently—about grief, parenting, or turning pain into purpose, I’m available for school visits, book readings, podcast interviews, and community events. I speak as a mom, a survivor, and a storyteller.
For speaking engagements or media inquiries, contact hello@jamietafoya.com.
