Welcome, Mom’s Choice readers! Today we’re speaking with Jessalyn Bazzle, the Mom’s Choice Award-winning author of Breezy The Cloud. Breezy the Cloud floats above the sunny shores of Seagull Beach, but when he’s faced with a new creative challenge, he feels out of his depth—especially when his friends seem to breeze right through it. With a little determination and a lot of heart, Breezy discovers the power of believing in himself. This uplifting story is perfect for children ages 4–7 who are just beginning their adventures in learning and growing.

MCA: Welcome, Jessalyn, and thanks so much for joining us today. Won’t you tell us a bit about yourself?

I am a born-and-raised South Carolinian who’s always had a deep love for spending time outdoors. I graduated from the University of South Carolina with a degree in Graphic Design, and I’ve always gravitated toward the whimsical and abstract. Nature inspires me endlessly, and I’m constantly in awe of people who turn life’s challenges into creative fuel. I try to do the same every chance I get!

MCA: What inspired you to become an author, and do your background or life experiences influence your writing?

My five-year-old daughter is my daily dose of inspiration—and energy! After spending a decade navigating the corporate world, I desperately needed a creative outlet. Writing gave me the perfect way to turn tough days into something meaningful and shareable. It’s been transformational to take my life lessons and package them into stories that inspire both kids and grown-ups.

MCA: What was your inspiration for writing this book? Was there a specific occurrence that moved you to write it?

I was having “one of those days” at work when I stepped outside for a breather—and there it was: a giant heart-shaped cloud floating overhead. That exact moment sparked the idea for Breezy the Cloud!

MCA: Can you share your creative process? How do you generate ideas and bring them to life on the page?

My creativity usually kicks in when I connect two things: the hurdles I’ve climbed over and the beauty found in nature. Whether it’s a tricky work situation or a moment of awe watching the sky change colors, I try to translate those emotions into something magical on the page. Nature, emotion, and imagination are the winning combination behind my ideas!

MCA: What do you hope readers will take away from your book?

I want readers—little ones and their grown-ups—to remember that success doesn’t always happen right away, and that’s okay! Everyone has their own timeline, their own rhythm. It’s a celebration of uniqueness, perseverance, and trusting the journey.

MCA: What do you find most rewarding about the writing process? Conversely, what are some of the challenges you face?

Seeing my idea come to life as a real, hold-it-in-your-hands book was absolutely surreal. The most heartwarming moment was watching my daughter grab her markers and start writing her own story after seeing Breezy. That’s when I knew I’d done something right. The biggest challenge? Learning the ropes of self-marketing-turns out writing the book was the *easy* part!

MCA: Such a wonderful moment, when your daughter began writing her own story—that’s inspirational in itself. Tell us, how does your book contribute to promoting family-friendly values or enhancing the lives of your readers?

Breezy the Cloud encourages kids to be gentle with themselves, especially when they’re learning something new. It celebrates growth, resilience, and joy—even in the face of failure. My hope is that it becomes a little lighthouse story, shining bright when readers need encouragement the most.

MCA: Truly an admirable hope to have. Can you share any memorable moments or feedback from readers that have touched you or reinforced the impact of your work?

It melts my heart when adults tell me the book brought them back to their own youth—lying in the grass, watching clouds float by. One reader said an illustration within Breezy the Cloud touched deeply on an existential level, similar to some from their own childhood. Moments like those are invaluable.

MCA: They are indeed. Could you tell us what advice you’d give to aspiring authors who are just starting their writing journey?

Don’t second-guess your story—it’s yours for a reason. Your voice, your experience, your imagination… it all matters. Keep writing, even if it’s messy or weird or totally different. That’s where the magic lives.

MCA: As an author, what are your future plans or goals?

I’m already cooking up the next adventure! Life handed me another curveball recently, and I’m excited to turn that into my next story. The journey doesn’t stop with Breezy The Cloud—I am just getting started!

MCA: Jessalyn, it’s been so enjoyable to speak with you today—such excellent advice for new authors! We’re looking forward to seeing the next installment in your writing journey.