There’s no manual for parenting, but if there were, Lori J. Thompson’s stories would be tucked inside.
After fourteen years in a busy preschool, Lori J. didn’t give up what she wanted when she retired. Instead, she picked up the pen… just like she had always dreamt of.
Today, she’s channeling her years of experience into heartfelt, humor-filled picture books through her brand, AuthorLoriJ, aiming to help today’s toddlers learn through story and give parents a breather, and maybe a laugh, along the way.
From Classroom Cubbies to Colourful Pages
Before she was Lori J., the author, she was Miss Lori, the preschool teacher who ran a large early childhood center with equal parts structure and heart. As both head teacher and Licensee, she wore many hats: mentor, mediator, boo-boo fixer, and snack-time savior.
But when it came time to retire, Lori J. knew she couldn’t just walk away from her “little people.” She loved the spark in toddlers’ eyes. Their curiosity. Their quick wit. And she knew that the same giggles and life lessons from the preschool classroom could find a new home between the pages of a book.
Storytime, Reimagined
Lori J.’s books are mini-adventures rooted in real-life moments. Inspired by time spent with her own grandchildren and some very cheeky squirrels, her Squeak the Little Grey Squirrel series brings the magic of discovery to life.
In the first book, readers meet Squeak, an energetic backyard squirrel with a talent for knocking over flower pots and stealing hearts. Great Gramma’s house becomes a stage for mischief, nature, and learning. When a baby squirrel falls from its nest in the follow-up story, Lori J. brings in themes of empathy, problem-solving, and cooperation.
These animal tales are actually parenting tools in disguise.
Real Lessons for Real Families
The reason Lori J.’s books feel so real is because they are. She writes what she knows. And what she knows is how toddlers think, feel, and grow.
“I have a passion to see young parents and caregivers have good success with navigating through parenting young children,” says Lori J.
While Lori J. doesn’t believe in prescribing a one-size-fits-all approach, she offers helpful hints, practical ideas, and a whole lot of grace. Her stories are a nudge, not a rulebook. A reminder that it’s okay to improvise. To laugh when it gets messy. To see every moment as a teaching moment.
The Squeak Series: Where Nature Meets Nurture
Lori J.’s books also focus on the connection between children and caregivers, between nature and imagination. And, of course, between Great Gramma and her great-grandchildren.
The Squeak series also includes Squeak’s Colouring Book, a creative companion that invites little readers to become illustrators. It’s an invitation to play, to process, and to participate in the storytelling. That’s the Lori J. difference: every book is a conversation starter.
There’s a story in Lori J.’s world that will speak to toddlers and you.
Writing With Heart, Sharing With Purpose
For Lori J., this isn’t just about publishing books. It’s about showing up for parents. She dreams of speaking to groups, sharing her classroom stories, and offering real support in a warm and funny way.
“Funny that we don’t get a handbook or an instruction book when we leave the hospital with our newborn baby,” says Lori, “Parenting is a very personal thing. I am not the one to tell you how to, but to offer helpful hints to make the home more comfortable and fun!”
That “Lori J.” mindset has become a gentle presence in homes across Canada and beyond.
Why Parents Are Paying Attention
Parents are loving Lori J.’s stories because they reflect the real rhythm of daily life. A spilled flowerpot. A found squirrel. A child’s endless questions. She wraps all that in a cozy, Canadian setting and makes it beautiful.
- Simple, relatable plots that toddlers understand
- Built-in lessons on kindness, observation, and family
- Humor that both kids and adults can enjoy
- Encouragement for parents who feel overwhelmed
And let’s not forget: the books are beautifully illustrated, too. That’s thanks to Brady Sato, whose artwork brings Squeak and the gang to life.
Conclusion
More stories, more coloring pages, and, hopefully, a chance to connect with even more families are on Lori J.’s horizon. In her world, storytelling meets sanity-saving support for parents of young children.
Because even if there’s no official handbook for parenting, Lori J.’s stories come pretty close.