Author & Illustrator

Watch author Lauryn Alyssa Wendus speak about our newest book, Oliver Poons and the Cats Who Wear Clothes on Fox61!

Our Story

The Oliver Poons children’s series is written by Lauryn Alyssa Wendus, and illustrated by Lois Wendus.

Lauryn started writing children’s books while recovering from a debilitating case of Lyme disease. Writing became a creative outlet for her during her recovery as she began to regain strength from this illness. While in the midst of her recovery, Lauryn, previously being only right-handed, found herself writing with her left hand.  Not understanding this odd new symptom, Lauryn chose to embrace it, and found herself doodling sketches and writing children’s rhyme. While she has since returned to using her right hand more frequently, she still finds herself preferring to write left-handed for creative endeavors.

Lauryn sought out her mother, Lois, to illustrate her stories. Lois, a long-time educator specializing in teaching early reading, was receptive to the idea of publishing a lighthearted children’s book series. Lauryn helped Lois formulate concepts for the illustrations, and with a little bit of practice, Lois & Lauryn quickly found the characters start to take on a life of their own.

Lauryn and Lois were overwhelmed by the positive response to the launch of their first book, Oliver Poons and the Bright Yellow Hat. They are excited for the growth to come as Oliver Poons comes to life in more books and character-inspired products. Their experience self-publishing and starting a business has also inspired them in their newest business, WhatsNewLocal.com, an online platform to support local business and local community.

Lois continues to teach reading to students through her tutoring business. For more information, please visit www.leapsinlearning.com. For more information on Lauryn, please visit her website at www.laurynwendus.com.