Children’s Author Carrie Tillotson: Silly, Smart, and Straight From the Heart

Carrie Tillotson grew up in Canby with a longtime dream of illustrating picture books. She believed writing a children’s book was a necessary step to becoming an illustrator. That assumption led her to experiment with writing — something she hadn’t originally intended to pursue. In 2014, she attended a conference through the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators, and to her surprise, she quickly discovered she loved it. 

Carrie worked in healthcare research and biostatistics for over a decade. Her scientific background sharpened her research skills, which turned out to be especially helpful when writing nonfiction. She approaches her work like a puzzle, whether it’s breaking down data or building a story for young readers. That mindset helps her stay focused through revisions and problem-solving when a story isn’t quite working. Her years in research also taught her how to dig deep into a topic, a skill she now uses to bring accuracy and clarity to her books.

Carrie is the author of Counting to Bananas, B Is for Bananas and Alpacas Here, Alpacas There. The alpaca book was inspired by a road trip through Washington, where she and her sister encountered a field full of unfamiliar but fascinating animals. That experience sparked a deep interest in alpacas, and she considered having her own alpaca farm. Plans for a farm were eventually set aside due to allergies, so writing about them became a perfect alternative.

Her creative process includes brainstorming exercises like timed writing sessions and list-making, especially when working through tricky story elements like titles or rhyming lines. Humor plays a big part in her work. She builds stories that make her laugh first and trusts that young readers will enjoy them too. Feedback from educators has confirmed that her books have even helped hesitant readers find joy in reading.

Today, Carrie writes full-time and studies children’s book illustration. Art and writing now go hand-in-hand in her daily life, alongside her lifelong passion for running. that habit, which started in middle school, helps her maintain creative energy and balance.

Carrie enjoys visiting schools and libraries, where she can meaningfully connect with young readers. She especially looks forward to the Q&A sessions, where kids often ask creative and surprising questions. One of her favorite parts is receiving student artwork inspired by her books. These moments remind her why she tells stories in the first place and how books can leave a lasting impression.

Her next book, a humor-filled science-themed story, is in the works and awaiting official announcement. It marks another exciting step in a career that began with curiosity and continues to grow through joy, learning, and imagination. For more information, check out her website at www.carrietillotson.com.

Later this year, Carrie plans to visit the Canby Public Library for a storytime event. If you and your children want to meet her in person, check the library’s calendar for upcoming events.