Ylleya Fields is a children’s book author and mom of six who started writing her popular series, Princess Cupcake Jones, after looking for books for her then four-year-old daughter “I wasn’t able to find books that had a character that she physically could relate to. After searching and being unable to find her anything, I just decided to write it myself,” says Ylleya. Along the way, the series has gained a star-studded following, including Kim Kardashian, Kylie Jenner and Christine Milian. We asked Ylleya about launching and growing her book series, having a large family, and more, in this week’s Meet a Mom interview:
Can you please tell us a bit about yourself and your family?
Of course! I’m a 46-year-old mom of 6 from Cleveland, Ohio. Originally born in South America, I came to the US around the age of 7 and lived in the DC area for 3 years before moving to Ohio. My eldest DJ is 26, next is Donna 19, Dakota 17, Grey 10, and twins Phoenix and Prime 8. I worked in accounting for some years prior to writing Princess Cupcake Jones, and I have a BSBA with a concentration in Finance.
What is your favorite part so far of creating this wonderful series?
The best part of writing the series has by far been being a part of so many children’s childhoods. When people realize I wrote the series, they are always like, “that was my child’s favorite book” or “I read to my child every day.” I’m constantly around children due to my ten-year-old being a child influencer and it’s always amazing to me when I’m recognized for that instead of just being her mom.
What do your kids think of the series?
The kids are so proud of it! They love that I was able to take some of their childhood experiences and make them into books that other children could relate to. Literally everything I’ve written about has been something that they have experienced themselves. Plus, Princess Cupcake Jones is a combination of my eldest two daughters physically, which makes her also look like the younger two daughters as well!
Why is representation so important for kids?
Representation is SO important. It literally drives home the message that you can be anything or anyone.
You travel a lot with your kids—what are some of your best tips for family travel?
We do travel a lot! I love doing it with the kids so that they can understand how big the world is and see how other cultures navigate their spaces. The best tips I would give would be to be organized and create a realistic itinerary. You can’t do/see everything, so pick things that will make the most difference with the time that you have.
You have a large family – how do you find time for yourself?
I’m an only child so I’m going to make time for me, ha. I take moments when the kids are asleep or at school to do things that make me feel better about myself. From getting my hair done, working out, or even a massage…whatever I feel I need at that moment.
You have celeb fans like the Kardashians—what was that like, finding out they were reading your books to their kids?
I’m super honored when anyone likes the books but the Kardashians liking it is definitely the icing on an already fabulous cake!
