About the Author

Sonia O’Bryan grew up in the small town of Bagley, MN. Following graduation, she attended Bemidji State University earning a degree in Elementary Education. Her first teaching job, which she held for 17 years, was in Lamar, CO where she taught grades K-5. Returning home to MN and her alma mater, Dr. Sonia O’Bryan is currently an Associate Professor of Education, teaching pre-service teachers. Teaching a course in Children’s Literature inspired her to write her own children’s book about her daughter growing up without a father. Heavenly Father, Will You Be My Daddy? was her first book. Her second book, Amelia Grace’s Forever Home, has just recently been released. Both a faith-based books.

About the Illustrators

Sophia Jones, Illustrator of Heavenly Father, Will You Be My Daddy?

Sophia Jones, a Bemidji High School graduate, has been drawing and creating art her whole life. Hoping to pursue a career as an illustrator, she attended and is a recent graduate from Alexandria Technical College where she studied art and design. She posts her work on Instagram @s0j0sketches and can be contacted through email.

Casey Belich, Illustrator of Amelia Grace’s Forever Home

Embarking on the fulfilling journey of illustrating her very first children’s book is a wonderfully experience, filled with the joy of translating words into creative art. As a fist-time book illustrator, Casey finds herself immersed in the heartwarming narrative of a loving story centered around adoption. Through here artistic lens, she aims to capture the tender moments, the emotions, and the unspoken bonds that weave together this beautiful story. Join me in this artistic exploration as we embark on a visual adventure, celebrating the magic of love and adoption through the pages of this cherished story. As a fresh graduate from Bemidji State University, Casey continues to pursue her love for Art and Design, where she works as an Tradeshow Designer and Illustrator on the side.

About the Girls in the Stories

Esabelle (Esa) O’Bryan, Heavenly Father, Will You Be My Daddy?

Esabelle O’Bryan is a busy eighth-grader who loves to draw, play piano, and especially playing hockey. She also shares her mom’s love of traveling to warm places and exploring the 50 states.

Amelia (Mia) Grace, Amelia Grace’s Forever Home

Amelia Grace is a nine year old girl whose love for gymnastics keeps her busy.