Meet Elaine
Elaine Wanicur Levy has dedicated her career to helping young children learn, grow, and thrive. Her journey began as a preschool teacher, where she quickly discovered her passion for nurturing children's emotional, social, and developmental growth.
An Innovative Leader in Early Childhood Education
After her early success in the classroom, Elaine was selected to develop and lead a daycare program that quickly gained recognition for its excellence. Her commitment to creating meaningful learning experiences led her to pioneer one of the nation's first intergenerational daycare programs within a HUD senior living community.
This groundbreaking program brought young children and older adults together, fostering friendships, learning opportunities, and lasting connections across generations. The program received statewide recognition and earned Elaine an invitation to speak at a New Jersey educational seminar, where she shared her innovative approach with fellow educators and childcare professionals.
Supporting Children and Families
With decades of hands-on experience, Elaine has worked with countless children and families, helping them navigate childhood fears, developmental milestones, and everyday challenges. Her compassionate approach and deep understanding of child development have made a lasting impact on the families she has served.
Becoming a Children's Author
Today, Elaine combines her professional expertise with her love of storytelling through children's books that encourage courage, kindness, resilience, and self-confidence. Her stories are designed to help young readers face their fears, embrace their strengths, and discover the light within themselves.
Looking Ahead
Elaine continues to write and develop new stories that inspire children and support families. Through her books, she hopes to empower the next generation with the confidence to face challenges and the courage to be themselves.
Meet The Illustrator
Michele Collins spent more than 30 years building an award-winning interior
design and decorative arts business before returning to her first love—children's stories and illustration. After publishing her debut picture book, Grandmom Drives a Jeep, she followed her passion for creating imaginative worlds filled with humor, heart, and a touch of magic.
From her studio overlooking the Tuckahoe River in southern New Jersey, Michele creates whimsical illustrations inspired by the wonder and curiosity of childhood. Whether bringing friendly monsters to life or dreaming up new adventures, she is happiest thinking like a child and inviting young readers to do the same.
