Sharon Varney Shares the Heart Behind Her Award-Winning Children’s Book

PHOTO: Sharon Varney, award-winning author of OH LITTLE ONE, WHO WILL YOU BE?, enjoying a peaceful moment outdoors beneath a leafy tree, reflecting the warmth and imagination in her storytelling..

A Celebration Of Family, Imagination, And Childhood Wonder

Award-winning author Sharon Varney opens up about the inspiration behind her heartfelt debut picture book, the joys of grandparenting, and her hopes for a new generation of young readers.

Sharon Varney writes with the kind of warmth that only comes from a life steeped in love, reflection, and wonder. Her storytelling is deeply rooted in generational connection—memories of raising children, the joy of becoming a grandparent, and the timeless ritual of reading together. With OH LITTLE ONE, WHO WILL YOU BE?, she offers a heartfelt glimpse into how stories can become anchors, gently guiding little ones as they begin to explore who they are and who they might one day become.

The sincerity in Sharon’s words is unmistakable. She doesn’t write from a distance—she writes from the heart, shaped by lived experience and a profound appreciation for everyday moments. The gentle humor of a toddler’s imagination, the quiet awe of watching a child discover something for the first time—these are the sparks that fuel her creative vision. Her background as an educator only deepens her understanding of what stories can offer to young readers, not just in words, but in confidence and care.

In her debut, she invites readers into a world both specific and universal, where children are reminded they are seen, valued, and unconditionally loved. OH LITTLE ONE, WHO WILL YOU BE? is not only a beautifully illustrated journey through childhood curiosity—it is a reassuring embrace for any child still discovering who they are meant to be.

Sharon Varney writes with heartfelt sincerity, crafting tender, imaginative stories that inspire children while honoring the beauty of family and belonging.

What inspired you to write OH LITTLE ONE, WHO WILL YOU BE?
The inspiration for Oh Little One, Who Will You Be? came from the most joyful news: becoming grandparents. The overwhelming sense of love and happiness that filled our hearts immediately sparked my desire to capture their story. It’s incredibly rewarding to watch my grandchildren growing, exploring, and discovering, and to see my own children embrace their roles as new parents. I’m thrilled that readers of all ages are connecting with the hopeful and empowering message.

How did your own experiences as a parent and grandparent shape the story?
As young parents, we were figuring our way through life, just like many do. We encouraged an excitement for reading, starting with a small library for bedtime stories which grew over the years. When home game consoles became a distraction, we made it a fun ritual to take regular trips to bookstores where our kids picked their own books and occasionally received special perks.
When we became grandparents, a passion for nurturing a brighter future for our grandchildren was heartwarming. It was a wonderful moment to begin sharing my observations as they play and explore, constantly wondering what imaginative worlds they’re building in their minds. A fun way to bring our family’s reading tradition to life in a new way.

“Imagination is fundamental in my storytelling process; it’s simply how my mind works.” — Sharon Varney

What message do you hope children take away from your book?
The core message I hope all readers take away from Oh Little One, Who Will You Be? is simple: “Be happy being you!” The book aims to show that while we are all wonderfully different, we are also connected by shared experiences—good and bad. I want to encourage every reader to recognize their potential and to know they can make a positive impact in our world. It’s also about understanding that there will always be people who see them for who they truly are and accept them unconditionally.

Can you tell us about your collaboration with illustrator Anthony Richichi?
My collaboration with Anthony Richichi was truly amazing! It all began with an impromptu, chance meeting at our local arts and crafts festival. I was telling myself I wasn’t ready to discuss my book, which was still a work in progress, but our paths crossed for a reason. Anthony is a modern-day renaissance man—an artist, illustrator, actor, playwright, and musician. I’m looking forward to working with him again.
I also have to commend Vicki Addesso Dodd and Saratoga Springs Publishing LLC. As my publisher, Vicki’s boutique publishing company promoted a welcoming atmosphere. Both Anthony and Vicki were fantastic listeners, demonstrating a genuine understanding that this was a deeply personal story for my grandchildren, with every spread connected to them and our extended family. They offered great suggestions while always respecting my vision.
(Also, special thanks to Aimee D., graphic artist and Toni A-S., editor.)

How did you feel when your book won five major awards?
Winning five major awards for Oh Little One, Who Will You Be? has been a fabulously surprising and ecstatic experience! I am so thrilled by the widespread recognition from esteemed organizations such as The BookFest Awards, the International Impact Book Awards, and the Outstanding Creators Awards.
This book was a labor of love. Every character and every dream explored within its pages holds a real connection.

“I wanted to create a book inspired by cherished moments, but meaningful to all readers.” — Sharon Varney

What was the most challenging part of writing a children’s picture book?
For me, the most challenging part of writing Oh Little One, Who Will You Be? was balancing my personal, family-inspired vision with relatability for all young readers. While the initial spark came directly from observing my children and grandchildren, I wanted to create a book inspired by those cherished moments, ensuring my family could hold dear for years to come. The real challenge was taking those special times and crafting them into universal themes.

What age group did you have in mind when creating the story?
When we became grandparents, the idea of writing this children’s book was planted like a seed. My goal was to create an engaging and joyful children’s story, primarily for ages birth to seven.
The overall theme reflects the wonder we feel as we witness a child’s “firsts” and ponder their future possibilities through interactions and play. I truly believe early reading to children is key; even the youngest listeners are captivated by the vibrant illustrations and absorb parts of the story. Soon, little ones begin to “pretend read”—by simply turning pages themselves. These are delightful stages my grandchildren are currently enjoying, making happy sounds and even starting to say words, sometimes with a bit of help.

How do you think reading habits in children have changed since your kids were young?
Reading habits in children have changed significantly since my own kids were young. We lived in a different era, and today’s families are navigating a much more fast-paced, ever-changing societal environment with its own unique demands.
When my kids were young, screen time was hardly a concern; we didn’t have to consider its potential negative effects on their social, emotional, or mental well-being. Their preference was primarily to be outdoors, engaged with friends, and participating in a sport or activity, regardless of the season. The aftermath of the pandemic, too, only added new pressures to family life.
Time is precious, and my hope is that parents, guardians, and caregivers recognize the value of being as present as they can with their young children, by creating consistent screen-free routines, establishing healthy boundaries around technology use, and continuing to foster a love for reading.

“Time is precious—make room for reading, connection, and wonder.” — Sharon Varney

What role does imagination play in your storytelling process?
Imagination is fundamental in my storytelling process; it’s simply how my mind works. I’ll observe or hear something, and my thoughts spin into endless possibilities. This is precisely why it was so important for me to collaborate with people who embraced my vision. Anthony Richichi, along with my publisher Vicki Addesso Dodd, are remarkable talents who completely understood the story’s direction.
A great example is the opening spread, “As an EXPLORER.” The toddler character was inspired by a video of our first grandchild safely navigating through a corn maze. We watched it a couple of times, and my imagination immediately transformed the corn maze into an Amazon Jungle. That video was my ultimate inspiration.

What advice would you give to aspiring authors looking to write their first children’s book?
That’s a great question! I actually started toying with the idea of writing a children’s book several years before Oh Little One, Who Will You Be? took shape, anticipating becoming a grandparent.
My biggest piece of advice would be to do your research and commit to continuous learning. Even with my 20+ years as an educator, I knew children’s literature had its own unique style. So, I took an online course specifically on writing for children and invested in a book that guided writers on crafting stories for young readers. There are also many other valuable resources readily available online.
I’ve already had several aspiring authors approach me, inquiring about my journey from initial concept to final publication, and I am happy to share what I’ve learned.