Samantha Garcia lives in Wisconsin with her husband, son, and soon-to-be little one. Her local gym, along with the amazing women she has met there, has played a huge role in her journey through postpartum recovery, both physically and mentally. The many lessons she’s learned there helped inspire this book. She hopes to set a good example for her kids, showing that movement is fun and that they can do anything they put their minds to.
Q. What inspired the idea behind your book?
A: I was inspired by the strong, incredible women whom I met at my home gym. They helped me find my new “normal” as I navigated postpartum/new-mom life.
Q: As an author, what tips would you give anyone who wants to get into writing?
A: All it takes to start is an idea.
Q: What is your favorite book?
A: Favorite children’s book: If You Give a Pig a Pancake by Laura Numeroff
Favorite book: Beneath a Scarlet Sky by Mark T. Sullivan
Q: Was your main character modeled after anyone in your life?
A: The main characters in my book are based on myself and my son.
Q: What is your favorite part of the writing process?
A: I really enjoyed seeing the illustrations. I had written the words and had visions in my own head, but actually seeing them made the whole project feel “real.”
Q: Do you believe that being a “good writer” is a developed skill or a natural talent?
A:;Both, I suppose. I think anyone can be a writer as long as they have the ideas. Then, find a good team to help polish up your words. and you’re on your way.
Q: Do you have a favorite book, poem, TV, or movie quote?
A: “Comfort is the enemy of growth.” —PT Barnum
Q: Would you write another book (or are you already writing another book)?
A: I would love to write more children’s books someday. I have ideas . . . 🙂
Q: Is there an author you look up to, and why?
A: I don’t have one specific author that I look up to. I love seeing different writing styles and the way different authors incorporate lessons into their stories.
Q: If there were an apocalypse and you could only take five books into your doomsday bunker, what would they be?
A: This is going to sound terrible for someone who is getting into being an author, but I’m not a big reader. I love reading children’s books with my son, but I don’t read much for myself. If I had to choose five children’s books to bring, they would be these:
Oh, the Places You’ll Go by Dr. Seuss
If You Give a Pig a Pancake by Laura Numeroff
The Pigeon Will Ride the Rollercoaster by Mo Williems
Jamberry by Bruce Degen
The Lorax by Dr. Seuss
Learn more about Samantha Garcia and her new children's book, Strong Like Mom, here. Coming December 1st, 2026!