A woman with black hair and a nose piercing wearing a light gray sweater, sitting at a wooden table in a cozy cafe or restaurant.

Meet the Author

Once upon a welcome—where stories begin with a smile and curiosity never sits still.

Kayla James is a full-time Maine children’s book author and former teacher who believes stories can inspire big feelings, bright ideas, and lifelong readers. Drawing on her love of learning and laughter, she creates playful, meaningful stories designed to spark imagination in children everywhere. When she’s not writing, Kayla can be found dreaming up new adventures at home in Maine with her husband, her step-son, and their ever-curious cat, Harper—who proudly serves as chief story supervisor.

Cover of a children's book titled "Did You Know? The Chronicles of a Guinea Pig" with cartoon illustrations of a guinea pig, shamrocks, and trees, on a notebook paper background.
A framed graphic with a dark blue circle containing a plaid pattern and a green shamrock. The text reads "MAINE BOOK AUTHOR." The background has repeating logos of the Lewiston Auburn Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce and text introducing Kayla James as the author.