How Storytelling Shapes a Career and Builds a Legacy

Episode 96 Overview

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Lesley O’Brien, author of the beloved “Adventures of Captain Marco” series, to explore what it truly means to be a children’s book author. From the influence of her father’s imaginative storytelling to her current adventures sailing the Chesapeake Bay with her adopted cat Marco, Lesley opens up about the deeply personal journey that led her to write for children.

Key Topics Discussed

The Meaning of Being a Children’s Book Author

Lesley distills her philosophy into two powerful concepts: legacy and service. She shares how her own legacy wasn’t one she created, but one she inherited—and is now honoring—through her writing.

A Gift from Her Father
Growing up, Lesley’s father would tuck her in most nights with made-up stories featuring magical characters like “Charlie the Magic Coat Hanger.” These vivid childhood memories became the foundation for her love of storytelling and her eventual calling to write fiction.

“It’s really maybe even about fulfilling his legacy rather than mine.”

The Power of Stories as Human Connection
Lesley emphasizes that storytelling is as fundamental to the human experience as eating together or making music. Stories spark imagination, create emotional connections to characters, and—most importantly—forge bonds between the people sharing them.

The Gift-Giving Phenomenon
One of Lesley’s most meaningful observations: the majority of people who purchase her books do so as gifts for grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and other loved ones. This reality reinforces her belief that she’s part of a larger chain of storytelling and connection.

“I imagine myself as being part of that chain of storytelling to a complete stranger and facilitating that experience of imagination and magic and connection between total strangers who will never meet me.”

Meet Captain Marco
The inspiration for Lesley’s series comes from her real-life companion: Marco, an orange tabby cat adopted from a local Richmond, Virginia charity. When Lesley and her partner discovered they could take Marco sailing on their boat around the Chesapeake Bay, the adventures began—and so did the stories.

Lesley specifically sought out a cat with three key characteristics:
- Curiosity – Marco greets every visitor with genuine interest
- Approach (not avoidance) – He’s outgoing and friendly
- Adaptability – He adjusted to boat life within days

The Book Plate Idea
The podcast host shares a practical tip for children’s book authors: include a book plate at the beginning of your book. This is a dedicated space where gift-givers can write a personalized message, adding sentimental value to the gift. Perfect for a book that’s likely to be given as a present!

Notable Insights

• From Science to Story: Lesley spent much of her career as a scientist and scientific writer, communicating complex information with precision. Writing fiction for children was a completely new exploration of her creative self.

• Living Legacy: The podcast host shares his own “living legacy” experience—writing 38 stories with his five grandchildren and capturing their young voices narrating the stories. A beautiful way to preserve memories and create lasting connections.

• The Ripple Effect: When you write a children’s book, you’re not just reaching the child who reads it. You’re creating a moment of connection between the gift-giver and the recipient, and between the reader and the characters—a ripple effect of imagination and love.

** About the “Adventures of Captain Marco” Series**

Book 1: Unfamiliar Territory
Book 2: An Impawsible Predicament (featured in this episode)

Both books follow Captain Marco’s adventures aboard a sailboat, exploring themes of second chances, environmental stewardship, and the whimsy of childhood adventure.

Why You Should Listen

If you’re:
- An aspiring children’s book author seeking inspiration and motivation
- A parent or grandparent looking to understand the impact of storytelling
- Someone curious about the journey from everyday life to published author
- A reader who believes in the magic of well-told stories

…this episode will resonate deeply with you. Lesley’s genuine passion for her craft and her thoughtful reflections on legacy and service make this a conversation that stays with you long after the episode ends.

Call to Action

Ready to hear more from Lesley O’Brien? Tune in to the full episode of “Adventures in the Heart of Children’s Book Authors Podcast” to discover the complete inspiration behind “An Impawsible Predicament” and get insider tips on writing, publishing, and building a legacy through children’s literature.

Have your own children’s book story to share? We’d love to hear from you! Connect with us and join our community of authors, readers, and storytelling enthusiasts.