Local author Kayla Leon celebrates creativity and imagination in children's book

Tashi Farmilo

Kayla Leon, a mother of two, is bringing children’s imaginations to life through her enchanting children's books. Now a resident of Luskville, Kayla’s love for storytelling is deeply inspired by her son, James, whose boundless creativity serves as the foundation for her literary works.

Kayla's debut book, "What a Mess Kid," tells the tale of a young boy named James, a character modelled after her son. James, accompanied by his loyal dog, Lincoln, embarks on imaginative adventures starting in his own bedroom. His creativity transforms everyday objects, like his bunk bed, into extraordinary contraptions such as a flying airplane, much to the bewilderment of his parents. The book not only highlights the joy and chaos of a child's imaginative play but also subtly celebrates the unique qualities of children with ADHD, like James, though without explicitly focusing on the condition.

The French edition, "Le Petit Génie du Désordre," mirrors the whimsical and inspirational essence of its English counterpart, engaging a broader audience with its bilingual appeal. Kayla, who is fluent in both English and French, stresses the importance of bilingualism in her household and has ensured that her books are written in both languages, not just translated.

Kayla’s inspiration stems from her childhood in Aylmer and her belief in the power of imagination. "Growing up in Aylmer taught me the value of community and dreaming big. I want every child to feel that they can achieve anything they set their minds to," she shared. Her supportive stance towards local businesses and the vibrant community spirit of Aylmer are evident in her approach to both her writing and her personal life.

In addition to writing, Kayla is passionate about helping other aspiring authors. Through her work in the publishing industry, she has assisted many authors in bringing their stories to life. Her upcoming plans include establishing a personalised book company, aimed at tailoring stories to the unique experiences of children, further fostering their creative development.

Kayla’s dedication to nurturing creativity doesn't stop at her books. She actively participates in local markets and events, connecting with the community and other local authors. Her goal is to see her books integrated into school curriculums to encourage creativity among students.

"What a Mess Kid" has been well-received, earning a 5-star rating and being a favourite among both children and parents. Its success has led to Kayla being nominated for the prestigious Next Generation Indie Book Award, an acknowledgment of her significant contribution to children's literature. She was invited to San Diego to receive her award, marking a significant milestone in her writing career. Kayla shared her excitement: "I was thrilled to learn that my book was nominated. It's an honour to be recognized among so many talented indie authors."

When she's not writing, Kayla enjoys gardening in her greenhouse, sipping coffee, and dancing in the kitchen with her family. She’s an advocate for parents embracing their children's creative minds, urging them to support and cultivate their imaginative adventures.

Kayla Leon’s delightful books, including "What a Mess Kid," are available for purchase at Indigo and Amazon, inviting readers to embark on whimsical journeys and celebrate the magic of imagination.

Photo caption: Kayla Leon's children's book "What a Mess Kid," inspired by her son's creativity and available in both English and French, has been well-received and is for sale at Indigo and Amazon.

Photo credit: Courtesy of Kayla Leon