Featured Interview With Cammie Stanek
Tell us a little about yourself. Where were you raised? Where do you live now?
I’m the creator and author behind Squeaky Squirrel Schoolhouse, a fun and educational world designed to make learning exciting for kids. Through this series, I combine storytelling, creativity, and hands-on activities to help children explore reading, writing, and imagination in joyful ways.
So far, I’ve created several books, including storybooks, coloring books, activity books, and early learning workbooks — all featuring Squeaky the Squirrel and friends. Each book is made to spark curiosity, encourage creativity, and make learning feel like play. Writing for children through Squeaky Squirrel Schoolhouse has been such a wonderful adventure — it’s all about inspiring little learners to dream big and have fun while they grow!
At what age did you realize your fascination with books? When did you start writing?
I’ve loved books for as long as I can remember! I really discovered my fascination with them around age 5 — I was captivated by colorful storybooks and the way they could take me on adventures without ever leaving home. That early love for reading naturally turned into a passion for creating my own stories.
By the time I was 10 years old, I had started writing little stories and drawing my own illustrations. Looking back, that was the start of my creative journey — the same spark that eventually grew into the Squeaky Squirrel Schoolhouse world I create today!
Who are your favorite authors to read? What is your favorite genre to read. Who Inspires you in your writings?
I’ve always loved reading Dr. Seuss, Eric Carle, and Beatrix Potter — their stories are timeless, imaginative, and filled with heart. They each have a special way of teaching lessons through play and creativity, which has always inspired me.
My favorite genre to read is definitely children’s literature, especially books that mix fun with learning. I love stories that encourage curiosity and imagination — the kind that make both kids and adults smile.
When it comes to inspiration, I’m inspired by the joy and wonder of childhood itself — the way kids see magic in everyday things. That sense of discovery and creativity is what I try to capture in every Squeaky Squirrel Schoolhouse book I create.
Tell us a little about your latest book?
I was inspired to create Spot the Difference Halloween because I wanted to capture the playful excitement of Halloween in a way that encourages kids to slow down, observe, and think creatively. Halloween is full of fun details — costumes, pumpkins, spooky decorations — and I thought it would be the perfect theme for a brain-boosting activity book.
I love the idea of combining festive fun with learning, so each page is designed to spark curiosity and strengthen attention to detail while keeping that magical Halloween spirit alive. It’s a great way for kids (and even adults!) to enjoy the season, unplug for a bit, and have fun together finding all the little differences hiding in plain sight!
Connect with the Author on their Websites and Social media profiles
Cammie Stanek’s Website