How This Mom, Teacher & Award-Winning Author Beat Writer’s Block to Publish Her First Book

Meet Jill Sayre: The Multitasking Mom Who Wrote a Bestselling Children’s Book

Jill Sayre is more than just a middle school English teacher—she’s a creative force to be reckoned with. A mother of three, an award-winning author, a former actor and model, and a passionate artist, Jill proves that you can wear many hats and still chase your dreams. Her journey from a small town outside Los Angeles to becoming a celebrated writer is as inspiring as the stories she tells.

From Nature Walks to a Magical Novel

Jill’s love for storytelling began in her childhood, surrounded by the beauty of flowers and nature. After earning her degree in Art from UCLA and her teaching credentials, she followed her husband’s career across the country—from Dallas to California and back again. It was during these moves, and the walks she took with her children, that the idea for The Fairies of Turtle Creek was born.

Published in 2013, The Fairies of Turtle Creek is a magical novel for readers aged 9 and up. The story blends fantasy and history, following a grandmother and her granddaughter as they explore the belief in fairies. One reviewer called it “a beautifully written book about the belief in fairies and whether one young girl will believe her dying grandmother. It’s a must-read for granddaughters and grandmothers everywhere.” Jill’s research revealed that the 1920s were a time when teens and adults truly believed in fairies, adding a layer of historical depth to her enchanting tale.

Award-Winning Success and a Growing Series

The Fairies of Turtle Creek has earned widespread acclaim, winning the Silver Medal in the Readers’ Choice Awards for Children’s Fiction, becoming a Finalist in the USA Best Book Awards, and receiving the 2017 John E. Weaver Excellent Read Award for Tween Fantasy. It also topped the August list of Independent Publishers by LibraryPub. Despite taking four years to write, the book’s success has only fueled Jill’s passion for storytelling.

She’s currently working on the second book in the Fairies series, set in Maui, Hawaii, featuring sea sprites, mermaids, and Hawaiian fairies called menehunes. With her vivid imagination and dedication, it’s clear that Jill’s literary journey is far from over.

Balancing Teaching, Writing, and Motherhood

Jill doesn’t just write—she inspires others to do the same. In addition to teaching, she’s been part of a book club for 17 years and actively participates in her local chapter of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI). She also speaks on the topic, “Want to Write a Book? Let’s Get Started!” sharing her wisdom with aspiring writers.

Her ability to juggle multiple roles—teacher, mother, author—shows that with passion and perseverance, anything is possible. Even with a busy schedule, Jill makes time for what she loves, proving that creativity doesn’t have an expiration date.

Jill’s Top Tips for Aspiring Writers

Jill’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges, including writer’s block. Here’s her advice for anyone looking to start their own writing project:

• Write every day, even if it’s not perfect. Jill believes that even “drivel” can hide gems. Re-read and edit later—you might be surprised by what you find.
• Get feedback. For Jill, writing well without a critique group is nearly impossible. Constructive feedback is key to growth.
• Attend writers’ conferences. These events are goldmines for learning about publishing, getting critiques, and discovering what successful writers are doing.
• Combat writer’s block with visuals. Search for images related to your story, print them out, and glue them into a “writer’s journal.” Jill swears that details and ideas will emerge unexpectedly.

A Glimpse Into Jill’s World

Prime Women asked Jill a few personal questions to get to know her better:

• Elevator pitch: “I am a creative person who loves working with and writing for children.”
• Morning routine: In the summer, Jill sleeps in, enjoys her coffee, and writes. During the school year, she spends about 45 minutes planning fun lessons for her 85 sixth graders.
• Mentor: Her 4th-grade teacher, who made learning fun and inspired her to do the same for her own students.
• Proudest moment: Receiving her Master’s Degree in Creative Writing from SMU.
• Least favorite task: Cleaning bathrooms!
• Current read: The Inquisitor’s Tale by Adam Gidwitz (a young-adult book).
• Can’t-live-without product: Splenda.
• Inspirational quote: “A goal without a plan is just a wish.”

The Fairies of Turtle Creek is available for purchase on Amazon.

Final Thoughts

Jill Sayre’s story is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and creativity. Whether you’re an aspiring writer, a busy parent, or someone looking for inspiration, her journey reminds us that it’s never too late to pursue your dreams. With her award-winning book and her dedication to helping others, Jill is proof that the best chapters of life can begin at any age.