Dr Marc Fetscherin Inspires Families Through Children’s Books That Spark Joy And Connection
Photo: Dr Marc Fetscherin, author and professor, transforms family stories into magical books that inspire love, imagination, and inclusion.
Redefining Family Traditions, Celebrating Creativity, And Turning Real-Life
Dr Marc Fetscherin discusses his journey from academia to children’s literature, blending personal experiences, family values, and creative storytelling to craft inclusive books that build connections and lasting family traditions.
Dr Marc Fetscherin, a globally celebrated professor of marketing and branding, stands among the top 1% of scientists worldwide. However, his most cherished role arguably lies closer to home—that of a devoted father to his two daughters, Margaux and Mireille. This unique blend of academic prowess and paternal affection led him to embark on an inspiring journey, transitioning from scholarly pursuits to the vibrant world of children’s literature. His heartfelt stories, imbued with family values, aim to ignite joy, imagination, and connection while reflecting his own experiences as both a researcher and a parent.
Dr Fetscherin’s foray into writing books for children arose from a deeply personal place. “My daughters and our family dynamic inspired me to create stories that resonate with love and understanding,” he shares. His debut book, We Are Family but Not Married, stemmed directly from his own journey through divorce and the challenges of explaining this new reality to his young daughters. He recognised a gap in resources that addressed these experiences in an empathetic and positive light. Crafted carefully with simple yet meaningful language, the book avoids weighty terms like “divorce,” instead focusing on the concept of co-parenting and the beauty of families existing in varied forms.
Dr Marc Fetscherin is a brilliant storyteller who combines academic expertise with heartfelt narratives, inspiring families and redefining children’s literature.
Another of Dr Fetscherin’s imaginative creations, Bones is Back, owes its existence to his daughters’ curious minds. One Halloween, Margaux and Mireille questioned why their skeleton decoration couldn’t move like an Elf on the Shelf. That sparked a family tradition of moving the skeleton around and eventually led to the creation of Bones—a character who now takes centre stage in an innovative Book & Toy Set. “My daughters’ curiosity shaped every aspect of Bones. Their creativity and excitement made the story magical,” says Dr Fetscherin. The character evolved to embrace interactive features, such as being touchable and playable during the day, making Bones appealingly adaptable for families.
“Witnessing the impact of storytelling on my children inspired me to channel my writing skills into children’s literature.” – Dr Marc Fetscherin,
While achieving this balance might seem daunting, Dr Fetscherin thrives by maintaining structure and prioritising passion. His creative pursuits often happen during personal time, serving as both an outlet for storytelling and a way to strengthen bonds with his daughters. Interestingly, his background in academic branding influences his approach to children’s literature. “Just like branding, a great children’s book evokes emotion and establishes a connection,” he notes. Bones, designed with distinctive elements such as a glow-in-the-dark body and heart-shaped symbolic features, exemplifies these principles, creating a character that is emotionally engaging and visually unique.
For Dr Fetscherin, inclusivity is a cornerstone of his stories. He strives to craft narratives that speak universally, welcoming families from diverse cultural and religious backgrounds. Bones’ adventures focus on timeless themes of fun, love, and togetherness, ensuring that countless families can embrace the character’s traditions without barriers. This sets Bones apart from other holiday mascots, encouraging inclusivity while fostering meaningful connections between parents and children. “I wanted Bones to be more than just a seasonal novelty; I wanted him to become a symbol of shared joy,” he reflects.
Parents and children alike seem to echo this sentiment. Whether it’s glowing reviews on platforms like Amazon or seeing children’s eyes light up upon meeting the Bones figure, Dr Fetscherin treasures these moments as the most rewarding aspect of his work. “It’s humbling to know that something I created brings joy to families—not just during Halloween, but in fostering connection year-round,” he says.
When asked what advice he’d give to aspiring authors hoping to translate personal experiences into children’s stories, Dr Fetscherin advocates authenticity, perseverance, and collaboration. “Let your stories come from the heart, but know that crafting a truly impactful book is an enduring process. Involve children in your creative journey; their perspective is invaluable, and never underestimate the power of visuals in bringing your characters to life,” he advises.
Dr Fetscherin’s transition from academia to children’s literature proves a testament to the power of blending passion and expertise. By drawing inspiration from parenthood, he has created stories that not only entertain but deeply resonate, leaving an indelible mark on families worldwide.
Source: The Novelist Post Magazine
