Children’s books have a unique power to spark imagination, curiosity, and a love of reading. For North Carolina author Eden Estabrook, that mission comes alive through her charming character, Arnie the Armadillo. With two globe-trotting adventures already in print and more to come, Eden is quickly carving out her place in the world of children’s literature.
Meet Eden Estabrook
Based in the Charlotte Metro area, Eden Estabrook has called North Carolina home for more than 13 years. By day, she works as a content marketing specialist in the manufacturing industry. By night—and often on weekends at book fairs and story times—she transforms into a children’s author dedicated to literacy and adventure.
Her writing journey began in earnest in late 2023, when she decided to take the leap into indie publishing. In her interview on Jolene’s Book and Writers Talk podcast, Eden shared how she navigated the self-publishing world, found supportive writing communities online, and embraced the steep learning curve of managing everything as a “one-woman show.”
“I do everything from CFO to CMO,” she laughed. “The creative side is fun, but the math and business side? That’s been my challenge. Still, I wouldn’t trade it—I love getting out there and connecting with kids and families through my books.” –
The Adventures of Arnie the Armadillo
Eden’s books follow the curious armadillo Arnie on adventures that blend travel, culture, and nature:
Arnie the Armadillo Goes to Antarctica
Arnie bundles up and heads to the frozen continent, learning about wildlife and resilience along the way. The playful illustrations by Preston Anderson bring the icy landscapes and lovable characters to life.
Arnie the Armadillo Goes Backpacking in Brazil
Arnie’s second journey takes him deep into the Brazilian rainforest, backpack and all. The book introduces young readers to the vibrant culture and biodiversity of South America while keeping the story fun and accessible.
Both titles are available on Amazon and through Eden’s website, MeetArnie.com. Parents can feel confident that these sturdy, U.S.-printed paperbacks can survive sticky fingers and even the occasional hot chocolate spill—a story Eden shared proudly on the podcast as proof of her books’ quality.
Highlights from the Podcast Interview
During our conversation, Eden opened up about:
Printing Choices: While she technically uses Amazon KDP, Eden quickly discovered that offset printing through Formax Printing in Missouri gave her higher-quality copies—essential for children’s books.
Creative Storytimes: Inspired by her books’ animal characters, Eden has hosted readings at alpaca farms, turning storytime into a hands-on adventure for children.
Tips for New Authors: Eden encourages aspiring children’s authors to think outside the box and not get discouraged by rejection.
Future Goals: She hopes to explore hardback editions through IngramSpark so she can place her books in more libraries.
Catch Eden at September Events
If you’d like to meet Eden in person, get a signed copy of Arnie’s adventures, or bring your little ones to a storytime, here’s where you can find her this September:
- Sept 13: Carolina International Book Fair (12–5 PM)
- Sept 21: Lakeside Local @ Charles Mack Citizen Center (12–5 PM)
- Sept 27: Book Fair – Raleigh, NC with Front Paige Media (12–5 PM)
- Sept 28: Sunny’s Market @ Atrium Ballpark (10 AM–3 PM)
Follow Eden and Arnie’s adventures online
Email: meetarnie@gmail.com
Website: https://www.meetarnie.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Arnie-the-Armadillo/61554962218190/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arniethearmadillo/?hl=en
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Eden-Estabrook/author/B0FMTY7533
Eden Estabrook’s books remind us that adventure is everywhere—sometimes in the frozen tundra, sometimes in the rainforest, and sometimes right in our local bookstore. Through Arnie the Armadillo, she’s inspiring kids to explore, imagine, and embrace the joy of reading.
View the Whole YouTube Interview
Note From the Editor
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