About Kris

Hello! I’m a children’s book author. I’m passionate about writing for children and have a deep appreciation for a child’s inquisitive nature and their fantastical imaginations! My stories draw on my own experiences, sprinkled with humor, playfulness, and whimsy.

Prior to writing children’s books, I attended college and earned a B.A. in Business, Marketing, and Art. I worked in marketing, licensing popular kid’s television and movie characters for companies that make fun products like toys, books, and balloons.

I wrote my first book when my children were young. With simple text, stick-figure drawings, and folded construction paper, the book became a household favorite. It quickly multiplied into more titles and inspired my kids’ own artistic interpretations.

As the years passed, I found myself surrounded by children’s books. I volunteered in my kid’s school library. I wandered in the kid’s section of bookstores. And I checked out stacks of library books—all while writing and learning. This amazing journey led me to other writers, critique groups, webinars, writing mentors, conferences, and the Society of Children’s Books Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI).

I’m a member of SCBWI and the 12×12 Picture Book Writing Challenge. I’ve participated as a faculty speaker on a SCBWI Writer/Illustrator Panel, and have won numerous writing and mentor awards. I’m represented by Keely Boeving at WordServe Literary.

Besides writing, I love tennis, gardening, spending time with my family, and hiking in national parks.

Short Bio

Kris Tarantino writes picture books for children. She is a member of SCBWI and the 12×12 Picture Book Writing Challenge. She has participated as a faculty speaker on a SCBWI Writer/Illustrator Panel, and has won numerous writing and mentor awards. Kris holds a B.A. in Business, Marketing, and Art. Prior to writing children’s books, she worked in marketing, licensing popular characters for companies that make fun products like toys, books, and balloons. Kris is represented by Keely Boeving at WordServe Literary. You can find her online at www.kristarantino.com, as well as Twitter, Facebook, and Linkedin.