One of my favorite ways to connect with kids is through silly books that keep us smiling and giggling—and local author Jamie Cavallaro does just that! Growing up in Pittsburgh, traditions have always held a special place in our hearts, and Jamie’s delightful books capture that hometown spirit in the most charming ways. From the nostalgic joy of learning Pittsburgese (aka those quirky words only locals understand) to celebrating the magic of small moments, her books make it easy for kids and parents alike to connect with the culture that makes Pittsburgh special.
Jamie's playful ABC book, "Y is for Yinz," first caught my eye on her Instagram page, @jamiecavallarowrites. Each post featured a new letter and a laugh-out-loud anecdote that made me say, “I have to get my hands on this book!” Jamie’s work isn’t just about teaching letters—it’s about sharing stories, sparking joy, and embracing what makes the 'Burgh one-of-a-kind. Let’s dive into the Q&A with Jamie to learn more about the heart behind her books and her journey as an author.
What is the story behind your business? How did you get started?
I've always loved books, ever since I was a kid. I've been writing my whole life and I always knew that I wanted to be an author, but for years I never made the time to figure out how. Once I dedicated the time to learning the intricacies of self-publishing, I began publishing my work. After I published my Pittsburgh-themed ABC Book titled, "Y is for Yinz," I started getting a lot of support from the people from Pittsburgh, which meant so much to me. Knowing that kids, especially Pittsburgh kids, are having fun reading my books is the best result I could ask for as an author. It's been an incredibly fun adventure!
What are some fun facts about you or your business?
1. I write children's books, but am most known for my Pittsburgh-themed books.
2. I grew up in Pittsburgh, (South Hills). I graduated from Mt. Lebanon High School.
3. My husband, Joe, and I have two boys (Crosby - 6 years old and Oscar - 4 years old). My boys love to act as my test audience. They love reading my drafts with me and giving me feedback.
4. I've always been passionate about books and have wanted to be a writer since I was a kid.
What does your business offer its customers?
I write children's books! My most well-known book is "Y is for Yinz," a Pittsburgh-themed ABC book. I've published 5 other children's books, including my newest Pittsburgh-themed book titled, "Stiller the Hungry Yinzerpillar." It's about a fuzzy, black and yellow, hungry yinzerpillar that eats its way through all of the best foods that Pittsburgh is known for.
I've also written non-Pittsburgh-themed books, including:
“Why Not on Tuesday?” - a collection of 150 children’s poems and illustrations.
“A is for Aye Aye" - an uncommon animal alphabet journey. It includes 104 fun facts about the 26 featured unique animals. This book was inspired by my son, as he loves learning about unique animals that you don't typically see in children's books.
“Bob the Frog” - it’s about a hangry frog who is looking for flies to eat, and won't stop to talk to anyone until his belly is full.
“P is for Phan" - a book for all the music lovers out there. It's a jam band themed book, that's meant to make caretakers chuckle as they read the ABCs to their kids. I love writing, creating, and exploring new ideas and themes.
What are you most proud of?
I'm really proud of the response my Pittsburgh-themed ABC book, "Y is for Yinz" has gotten. What started as a fun project and a love letter of sorts to the people of Pittsburgh has turned out to be an exciting adventure as an author. I love that my book has made people laugh and smile, but most importantly, it's connected people and reminded them of why we're all so proud to be from Pittsburgh; the community.
Anything else you would like to share?
My newest book, Stiller the Hungry Yinzerpillar is my newest release, as of October 2024! Also feel free to check out my website: jamiecavallaro.com
Want to score your own copy of "Y is for Yinz"? Jamie's books can be found at select brick-and-mortar stores in Pittsburgh and on Amazon. Find more information at https://jamiecavallaro.com/
