Isis Mesa-Rubin, CD(DONA),CLC, LCCE, is a doula, childbirth educator, and lactation counselor who supports families from pregnancy to parenthood. She lives in Florida with her husband and two children, who inspired her to write this very book! When her kids began asking questions about her work, she knew it was time to create a book that gently introduces birth and the important role of a doula.
When she’s not attending births or teaching families, Isis loves traveling, being in nature, gathering with her community, and supporting causes that matter to her. She hopes this story brings curiosity, connection, and conversation into your home—and helps children see just how powerful birth can be.
Q: What inspired the idea behind your book?
A: This book is the culmination of several inspirations. I’ve always loved children’s books and the way they can introduce little ones to new concepts and ideas in a way that feels magical, simple, and age-appropriate. It has long been a dream of mine to write one.
The heart of this story comes from the birth of my children and the countless questions I’ve been asked over the years about the work I do as a doula. One pivotal moment came when I was a mystery reader in my son’s class. After I finished reading, the teacher asked me what I do for work. As I began to explain, I realized there were very few, if any, children’s books that talk about the role of a doula.
That was the seed that sparked this story. I had a desire to create something that could open up conversations about birth, help children understand the magic of welcoming a new baby, and shine a light on the important role of a doula.
Q: As an author, what tips would you give anyone who wants to get into writing?
A: First, get really clear on your intention. Ask yourself, what am I hoping to share or convey through these pages? Knowing your “why” will guide your writing and keep you connected to your purpose when doubts creep in.
Then, just start. Writing a book can feel overwhelming if you think about the whole thing at once. I began with small notes in my phone, jotting down scenes, phrases, and ideas as they came to me. They didn’t have to be perfect or in order.
I also committed to dedicating just thirty minutes a day to writing. Some days I barely wrote two words, and that was okay. Other days, whole pages poured out. But over time, those small moments added up, and little by little, the story began to take shape.
The key is to give yourself permission to start messy, stay consistent, and trust that it will come together.
Q: What is your favorite book?
A: My favorite book is The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho.
Q: Was your main character modeled after anyone in your life?
A: Ella, the doula, is a blend of inspirations. Her appearance was inspired by my grandmother, who passed away while I was writing this book. Her name is a tribute to both my daughter and my grandmother—my grandmother’s name was Elia, and my daughter’s nickname is “Ale,” which, spelled backward, becomes “Ela.”
It was my daughter’s birth that first led me to serve families as a doula, an experience that cracked me open in more ways than I could have imagined.
Ultimately, Ella is a love letter to all the incredible doulas and birth workers who walk beside families, holding space and bearing witness to the magic of birth.
Q: What is your favorite part of the writing process?
A: My favorite part was envisioning the book before I even wrote a single word. I loved sitting with the dream, imagining what I wanted to create, how it would feel, and the impact it might have. Holding that vision close made it possible for me to take the first step. The dreaming stage, when anything is possible and your heart leads the way, was really special.
Q: Do you believe that being a “good writer” is a developed skill or a natural talent?
A: I believe it’s a developed skill. What it means to be a “good writer” is deeply subjective. For me, a good writer is someone who can stir emotions, ignite curiosity, and spark a sense of wonder in the reader. Those abilities can absolutely be nurtured and strengthened over time with practice, intention, and heart.
Q: Do you have a favorite book, poem, TV, or movie quote?
A: “And, when you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it.” — from my favorite book and author, The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho.
Fun fact: I included this quote in my wedding vows. From the very first moment I read those words, they resonated deeply with me, and they’ve become an ongoing theme in my life. They’re a reminder to trust the path and believe in the magic of aligned intentions.
Q: Would you write another book (or are you already writing another book)?
A: Absolutely! I’m already thinking up my next one. I’d love to write more children’s books, and eventually, a non-fiction book on birth, sharing stories, insights, and wisdom from my years of supporting families through this incredible journey.
Q: Is there an author you look up to, and why?
A: I deeply admire Elizabeth Gilbert for the way she stays true to herself—you can feel the authenticity in every page she writes. Her words carry both courage and tenderness, reminding us that creativity is not something outside of us, but something we can access within. She inspires people to tap into their own creative genius, to live more boldly, and to trust the path of their own becoming. For me, she offers both inspiration and solace, guiding readers back to themselves through her wisdom and storytelling.
Q: If there were an apocalypse and you could only take five books into your doomsday bunker, what would they be?
A: Wow, that’s such a tough one! I’d have to choose the books I find myself going back to time and time again for inspiration:
1. The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
2. Brida by Paulo Coelho
3. A More Beautiful World Our Hearts Know Is Possible by Charles Eisenstein
4. Women Who Run With the Wolves by Clarissa Pinkola Estés
5. Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert
Each of these books feels like both a compass and a comfort—stories and wisdom that remind me of magic, resilience, and the deeper threads of life.
Learn more about Isis Mesa-Rubin and her new children's book, Welcome to the World A Doula's Guide to the Magic of Birth, here. Available now!