Behind the Scenes: The Pinecone Heart

Meet Jordan

A few years ago, I met a man who was just like Jordan, and I was looking for a name for my character. One summer, during a camping trip, I was taking my usual walk when I saw a group of kids playing and riding their bikes in the parking lot of the resort. One boy stood out to me. He was taking care of the other kids, organizing their game, and picking up any trash he saw.

He was dressed nicely, and even though he was young, he was very kind and polite. When I got closer, he said hello and apologized for the noise his group was making. I asked him his name, and he said, “My name is Jordan, and I’m 11 years old.” We started talking, and my friend (who was with me) and I both really liked this polite, well-behaved, and responsible boy.

I told him I liked his name and wanted to use it for my main character. He got really excited and asked when my book would be finished and if he could read it. I apologized and said it wasn’t for his age, but his parents could read it. He then took us to his parents and introduced us to them. I became so excited to have found the name for my character!

Meet Judy

Sometimes, life is unbelievably unpredictable.

One morning, while at a restaurant, I met a young woman. Her appearance and behavior were exactly like Judy, the character I had created. Curious and excited, I introduced myself and started a conversation with her. She introduced herself in return, and to my surprise…

…her name was Judy!

I was amazed and told her that the heroine of my latest book was also named Judy. As she shared details about her life, I became even more excited. The more she talked, the more she resembled the character I had written—even though I had never met her before.

Now, how did Judy become part of The Pinecone Heart?

Judy’s perspective on life aligns with my own. I believe in the same values that define her character: the power of living with love and kindness.

I believe that life becomes truly meaningful when we embrace love, kindness, and compassion. Every action we take, every word we speak, and every thought we nurture shapes not only our own happiness but also the world around us.

Judy’s storyline is a blend of different inspirations—some parts from my own life, some from the people I know, and some born purely from my imagination. Together, these shaped Judy’s character and the story itself.