Nate Whiting didn’t set out to become a children’s book author. He spent years as a physical education teacher before his wife heard a poem he’d written and told him it needed to be a book.
That poem became “The Wish Crackler,” the first title in Whiting’s “Whimsies of an Accidental Poet” series — a collection of children’s books built around whimsical, imaginative language.
Whiting holds both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in education from West Virginia University. He said his years working with children shaped his philosophy about the books.
“I just really believe in positivity toward kids,” Whiting said.
He also takes an intentional approach to vocabulary in his writing — one that trusts young readers to rise to the challenge.
“I don’t believe any child can’t handle a word,” he said.
His wife, Jo Gilley, played a pivotal role in launching his publishing career. After Whiting read “The Wish Crackler” to her, she encouraged him to share it more widely — a push that eventually led to the full series.
Whiting has since brought the books to festivals and events, reading to children and connecting with families who’ve embraced the series.
