We recently had the chance to connect with Cheryl Cheatham and have shared our conversation below.
Cheryl, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: Have any recent moments made you laugh or feel proud?
I have authored, illustrated, and published 13 award-winning children’s books over the last 5 years. They are silly, adventurous, and full of love, hope, and kindness. On the 5th anniversary of my first book, Perry The Sheep – Search For The Magical Rainbow, I received a bouquet of beautiful flowers. It wasn’t my birthday, my wedding anniversary, just Perry’s anniversary. The card that was included had a lovely message, but not who it was from. I racked my brain all afternoon, who would send me flowers? My daughter said,” Maybe your book printer?” I called her, and yes, it was from her and her company. She said, “It’s hard to believe it’s been five years since your first book, and what an incredible journey it’s been! Thirteen books later, your dedication, creativity, and heart continue to amaze me! You’ve become such a dear friend.” Well, my eyes filled with tears, and it was a moment I will never forget. Proud, you bet!
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I am a children’s book author and illustrator. My books are based on 49 characters I have created over the last 5 years. Perry The Sheep, Polly The Sheep, Yaya The Sheep, Lizzie The Llama, Ellie The Cow, Riley The Polar Bear, and many others go on adventures that will make you smile. Saving the universe with cupcakes, finding the magical rainbow, having the best day ever, helping a sweet friend with a broken leg, and many other stories are full of love, hope, and kindness. I donate the books to SSM Health Children’s Hospital, St. Louis Children’s Hospital, MidAmerica Transplant, local foster children, local schools, and libraries. Making a difference in a child’s life, one book at a time.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
I had amazing parents who supported me in ways I only understood as an adult. If you want something bad enough and are willing to work for it, you can accomplish great things. As an author of children’s books with many different characters, I literally eat, drink, and sleep thoughts about my characters. Their appearance, size, color, personality, and even their name take months of decisions, changes in those decisions, and finally seeing the finished character with a smile on my face. Hard work and tenacity can take you places you only dream of.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
When I began my author-illustrator journey, I was 59 years old. I did not have any formal training in either category. What makes me think I could EVER accomplish this? During covid, I started drawing my little granddaughter’s pictures, texting them the pictures as a way to stay connected. After 100 pictures, my middle granddaughter said, “Yaya, I think you should do a book!” The rest is history.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? Is the public version of you the real you?
The public version of me is outgoing, friendly, and willing to talk to anyone about anything. As an author, you talk to strangers about your books all the time. In reality, I am quiet, shy, and talking to strangers takes me out of my comfort zone. I am working on that! On the last 4 books, my young granddaughters and I have collaborated. This experience has been amazing for us. I hope I am teaching them a few things about life, hard work, and how important it is to give back to others.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. What will you regret not doing?
I regret not starting this journey in my thirties. I would have loved to use my adorable characters and have a children’s nursery line. Sheets, blankets, bibs, toys. With 49 cute and cuddly characters, the possibilities are endless.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: Yaya The Sheep
- Linkedin: Cheryl Cheatham
- Facebook: Yaya The Sheep
