Barbara Pinke Shares the Heartfelt Magic Behind Her Beloved Children’s Books

PHOTO: Author Barbara Pinke, creator of the Waves and Tales series, writes stories inspired by motherhood, emotional connection, and the magic of everyday parenting.

Celebrating Everyday Superheroes, Emotional Growth, and the Joy of Bedtime Storytelling

Barbara Pinke blends motherhood and professional insight to create uplifting children’s books that celebrate emotions, empower parents, and turn ordinary moments into unforgettable stories of love and connection.

Barbara Pinke captures the heartbeat of family life with unmatched warmth and authenticity. A gifted storyteller and devoted mother, she has carved a special place in children’s literature by blending emotion, imagination, and gentle wisdom into every page. Her stories speak not only to children but also to the parents who read alongside them, transforming simple moments into cherished memories. With her celebrated series like Waves and Tales and The Magilicious Journeys, Barbara reminds us that the most powerful superheroes are often the ones tucking us in at night or cheering us on through everyday triumphs.

At Mosaic Digest, we are proud to feature an interview with this remarkable author whose books uplift young hearts while honouring the tender, unseen heroics of parenthood. Barbara Pinke’s thoughtful reflections on empathy, emotional intelligence, and the creative power of collaboration offer a refreshing look into the soul of a writer who understands the true magic of storytelling.

Barbara Pinke’s stories are warm, wise, and deeply comforting—perfect for nurturing young hearts and strengthening the parent-child bond.

What inspired you to begin writing, and how has your personal journey shaped the themes in your books? 

My biggest inspiration has always been my children. I started writing when they were at that magical age when a goodnight story could make or break the bedtime routine. As a mom and a full-time HR professional, I’ve always been deeply aware of how important emotional connection is—both at home and in the workplace. That awareness naturally found its way into my books. I want children to feel seen, loved, and uplifted—and I want parents to experience that spark of joy when sharing those special storytime moments. 

“My biggest inspiration has always been my children.” – Barbara Pinke

Your recent books celebrate the special bond between children and their parents. What inspired you to create stories that portray parents as everyday superheroes? 

My newest project is all about superhero parents—moms and dads who show up every day with love, patience, and strength. The idea was born during one of those chaotic parenting moments with my husband, when we looked at each other, exhausted, and just laughed. It made me think: this is the real superpower. I wanted to celebrate those unseen heroics and give kids a fun, empowering way to see their parents as role models. 

Your books often help children navigate their emotions in a gentle, age-appropriate way. How do you approach writing about feelings—both big and small—while keeping your stories comforting and hopeful? 

I believe even the smallest stories can hold big feelings—especially for children who are just learning how to name and express their emotions. In my Waves and Tales series, I use underwater creatures to explore emotions like worry, excitement, or anger through playful adventures. And in Dad, You Are My Influencer, emotions take center stage too—whether it’s sadness, pride, or joy. I want children to know it’s okay to feel deeply, to recognize their emotions, and to talk about them. My goal is always to lead with warmth and end with light, so there’s a sense of safety and love in every story. 

Your background in HR and communication brings a unique authenticity to your writing. How does your professional experience influence your approach to storytelling? 

Working in HR has taught me so much about empathy, communication, and personal growth. I bring that same perspective into my writing—especially when exploring themes like confidence, emotional intelligence, or self-love. My background in communication also helps me craft stories in a way that’s accessible and engaging for young readers, while still carrying messages that matter. 

From your debut book to your latest work, what has been the most surprising lesson you’ve learned about yourself as an author? 

The most surprising lesson has been realizing that writing, which many see as a purely individual task, is actually a collaborative journey. I’ve discovered that I truly thrive in the creative teamwork that happens behind the scenes. While the story always starts with me—often late at night, inspired by my kids or a quiet moment—the finished book is shaped by a whole team. Working with editors, illustrators, book designers, and even proofreaders or translators has shown me how much better a story becomes when it’s shaped by many talented hands. I used to think being an author meant working alone, but now I see it’s just as much about collaboration, communication, and trust in the process.  

What’s your go-to writing snack during late-night writing sessions? 

Plum tea and pistachios. It’s the perfect mix—comforting and just a little indulgent. After a full day of HR work and mom life, that cozy cup of tea and a handful of crunchy pistachios help me settle in and let my imagination take over.