RJ Kinderman
RJ Kinderman is a retired educator living with his wife Denise on their farm in Northwester Wisconsin. He has lived an active lifestyle in the outdoors including twice biking across America as well as a lifetime spent messing around kayaks and canoes and countless hours on CC skis and snowshoes.
His first book,Tailwinds across America, is an exciting memoir recounting their bike rides across the country. At the urging of several readers, RJ embarked on a career of writing children’s picture books, which can now be found in thousands of homes.
In 2017, RJ was the recipient of the prestigious Jade Ring Award from the Wisconsin Writers Association in recognition of his writing. He enjoys the support of many educators and principals and received the endorsement of Mrs. Barbara Bush, former First Lady, for his book Beans and Lolo’s Big Bike Ride.
RJ Kinderman’s books are treasured by children and their families for the special, personal touch they bring to storytime. With options to include family photos and other custom details, his books become beloved keepsakes.
RJ’s Recipe for the Best Children’s Picture Books
Always:
🌟 Keep it simple. Fewer words, thoughtfully chosen, and age-appropriate for young children.
🎵 Make it musical. Rich, rhythmic text that even infants can absorb and enjoy.
🎨 Capture their eyes. Vivid, colorful illustrations that spark imagination and hold attention.
🐸 Include a Focus Friend. Look for Hop Along the Frog hiding in every illustration. He helps keep little ones engaged and excited to turn the page!
My books are written and illustrated to grow with your child from the earliest read-aloud moments to those proud days of independent reading. And just as importantly, they’re made to be just as enjoyable for you, the grown-up reader.
Thank you for welcoming my stories into your home and into your child’s life.
— RJ Kinderman