Sometimes the stories we are meant to tell grow from the seasons of life that challenge us most. For Hinsdale mom and first-time author Aubrey McCarthy, a lifelong dream of writing a children’s book became something much more meaningful. It became a way to turn love, loss, motherhood, and life’s unexpected headwinds into a hopeful story for young readers. For our next Local Author Spotlight, we’re shining a light on Aubrey and the personal experiences, inspiration, and heart behind her debut book, Winnie Wins the Wind.
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Winnie Wins the Wind is a heartfelt and beautifully illustrated children’s book about resilience, creativity, and discovering that sometimes life’s greatest challenges aren’t meant to be fought- but understood.
When Winnie sets out to defeat the mighty wind, she tries everything she can think of. But after one failed attempt after another, Winnie begins to wonder if winning means something entirely different than she imagined.
Through determination, imagination, and a little unexpected wisdom, Winnie learns that when we can’t control the obstacles in front of us, we can still choose how we move through them.
Perfect for young readers and families alike, Winnie Wins the Wind delivers an uplifting message about perseverance, adaptability, and finding strength in a new perspective.
Inspired by love, loss, and the enduring lessons that shape us, this unforgettable debut story encourages children to meet life’s challenges with courage- and maybe even a little creativity.
About the Author:
I had the opportunity to ask Aubrey a few questions to help us get to know her a little bit better, and find out more about her process and inspiration in creating Winnie Wins the Wind. Read on:
Tell us a little about yourself and where you're from:
I grew up in a suburb just outside of the Windy City, in Palos Park. Years later, I am now living in Hinsdale with my husband and two children, I work full time in a leadership position at Aon, partner with my husband to help grow our business, Astate, and spend free time with family, friends and volunteer efforts for the school and community. Writing a children's book has been a "bucket list" desire and I am pinching myself that Winnie Wins the Wind is finally out in the universe.
What inspired you to write this book?
Two themes really came together for this story: the balance of 'all the things' + the absence of my mom who unexpectedly passed away in 2008. Every day without her (and eventually my dad, soon after) put me in a position to navigate A LOT on my own. I learned to navigate the world, adulthood, marriage, relationships, becoming a mother... all without having my best friend and life line to tell me how to do it. The headwinds felt unbearable at times but I needed to find a way forward.
Eighteen years later, my family is in quite the busy season of life - and the beautiful chaos, can still feel like... chaos. So naturally, I would have loved to lean on my mom for her wisdom and hugs.
I took that moment to reflect on my own life, what she would tell me, and what I have learned to do. Some years of therapy have taught me to reframe. So a children's book with cognitive redirection presented in a light hearted way... was just the output I didn't know I needed. And maybe the world of young readers could benefit from that, too.
What surprised you the most about the process of writing your first book?
A few nights of insomnia brought me to my computer and the process began. The most surprising part of it all? Once I got myself to the keyboard, the story just began to flow and inspiration from my very own life became the richest source for creativity. Once I started typing, the story began to flow and it was equal parts therapeutic, fun... and what I hope to be, inspiring and motivating for kids.
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And because around here we love to highlight collaboration between women-owned small businesses, Aubrey has been popping up at storytimes and other community events around town at some of our favorite local spots, like Little Charm in La Grange and The Book Nook in Hinsdale. (I bet more are coming soon, so make sure to follow her on Instagram so you don't miss anything!)
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Winnie Wins the Wind is available for purchase on Amazon, or if you would like to shop local, you can find it at The Book Nook in Hinsdale or Little Elm in Winnetka.
Do you know another local author that should be featured on Macaroni KID's Local Author Spotlight? Tell us about them so we can help spread the word! We love supporting local business owners, entrepreneurs, creatives, and authors!
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