The RV Book Fair 2026: Interview with Christine Devane

You were a second-grade teacher before becoming an award-winning children's author. How did your years in the classroom inspire the stories you write today?

Teaching second grade for 13 years had a huge influence on the books I write today. Storytime was always my favorite part of the school day, and I loved seeing how children learned, asked questions, and connected with books. Watching their excitement showed me how powerful stories can be.

As a shy child myself, I also wanted to create books that help quiet kids feel seen, understood, and confident. Spending so many years in the classroom reminded me that every child deserves to see themselves in a story. I also saw how much children naturally love animals, which inspired me to write books that encourage kindness, empathy, and safe interactions with pets. My teaching experience continues to shape every story I write.

Your first picture book, "Elephant Beach," was inspired by your own childhood experiences with shyness. Why was it important for you to create a story that helps shy children feel seen and understood?

As a shy child, I wanted to write the kind of book I wish I had growing up. Shy children don’t often see themselves as the main characters in children’s books or as the strong, confident heroes of the story. With Elephant Beach, I wanted to change that. Now, as a mom to shy children, that mission feels even more meaningful. I hope the book helps quiet kids feel represented, valued, and confident in who they are while reminding them that you don’t have to be the loudest person in the room to make a difference.

Your latest book, "Pet Safety with Lola & Sophie," teaches children how to care for animals responsibly. What inspired you to combine storytelling with such an important educational message?

As both a former teacher and a lifelong animal lover, I wanted to create a story that teaches children how to interact safely and kindly with pets in a way that’s engaging and easy to understand. Watching my own children grow up with Sophie and seeing their daily interactions inspired me to write Pet Safety with Lola & Sophie. Sophie and I have both been bitten by dogs, so we know firsthand that accidents can happen in just seconds. My goal wasn’t to make children afraid of animals, but to help them understand how to recognize body language, respect an animal’s space, and build safe, positive relationships with pets. I hope the book helps keep both children and animals safe while encouraging kindness, empathy, and responsible pet ownership.

You've volunteered with animal rescue organizations and are a passionate advocate for pet adoption. How has that work influenced both your writing and your life?

Animal rescue has always been close to my heart because I know how many wonderful pets are waiting for loving homes. I’ve volunteered with rescue organizations and have adopted rescue dogs of my own, so I’ve seen firsthand how a second chance can change an animal’s life. I’m also passionate about pet safety because when accidents happen, dogs are often blamed and can end up back in shelters. Teaching children how to safely and respectfully interact with animals helps protect both kids and pets. Our family recently adopted another rescue dog, Tippy, and he’s a wonderful reminder of how resilient rescue animals are and how much love they have to give. I hope my books inspire families to choose adoption, practice pet safety, and treat every animal with kindness and compassion.

Many parents and teachers are looking for books that are both fun and meaningful. How do you balance entertainment with life lessons in your stories?

As a teacher, I learned that children learn best when they’re having fun. I always start with an engaging story and lovable characters, then naturally weave in an important message. Whether it’s helping shy children build confidence, teaching pet safety, or encouraging kindness and respect for others, I never want the lesson to feel like a lecture. My goal is for children to laugh, connect with the characters, and enjoy the story first—and then walk away having learned something meaningful without even realizing it.

Your books celebrate kindness, friendship, confidence, and compassion. Which of these themes do you hope children carry with them long after they finish reading?

If I had to choose one, I hope children carry kindness with them. Kindness has the power to change someone’s day, strengthen friendships, and improve the way we treat both people and animals. I also hope my books remind children that it’s okay to be themselves. Whether they’re shy, outgoing, or somewhere in between, every child has something special to offer. If my stories help children feel more confident, make safer choices around animals, and spread a little more kindness, then I’ve accomplished exactly what I hoped to do.

School visits are an important part of your work. What are some of the most memorable questions or reactions you've received from young readers?

There have been so many memorable moments during my school visits, but it’s the little things that stay with me the most. I’ve had a child wear an elephant shirt just because they knew I’d be visiting, which meant so much to me. Another student proudly told me how my pet safety presentation reminded him of when his own dog had to go to the emergency veterinary hospital after eating medication, and it started an important conversation about keeping pets safe. I’ve also had children ask me for hugs after a visit, and receiving handwritten letters and drawings in the mail from young readers is incredibly special. Those moments remind me that books can create meaningful connections and leave a lasting impact long after storytime is over.

What exciting projects are you working on now, and what adventures can your readers look forward to next?

I’m currently working on a book inspired by our newest rescue dog, Tippy, that celebrates pet adoption and the incredible difference a second chance can make. Beyond that, I have ideas for more fun, animal-themed children’s books that entertain while encouraging kindness, confidence, and a love of animals. I’m excited to continue visiting schools, libraries, and bookstores to connect with young readers and share new stories in the years ahead.

Christine Devane is a former teacher, lifelong animal lover, and children’s author dedicated to helping young readers become kind, confident, and safe around animals. Her books include Pet Safety with Lola & Sophie, Elephant Beach, and Lola & Sophie’s ABC Adventure. Her award-winning work promotes pet safety, adoption, empathy, and inclusion. Through school visits and media appearances, Christine continues to share her passion for reading, storytelling, and inspiring children. Find out more at https://christine-devane.com.

Interview published in The Relatable Voice Magazine - The RV Book Fair 2026 - Special. Download the full magazine for free at The RV Book Fair | Relatable Media.