Sunny Stella
A Guiding Light on My Homesteading Journey
Sharing My Homesteading Journey to Teach & Encourage Others!
Sunny Stella, a bright and adventurous fictional character, began as a simple sketch for the cover art of a backyard homesteading book I was planning for adults. But as I fleshed her out ~ something magical happened ~ she took on a life of her own. As I sketched her physical characteristics, it became clear to me that she was a child. The more I sketched, the more inspired I became to share some of my knowledge from the perspective of 11-year-old Sunny Stella; hence, Backyard Homestead Adventures (2023) was conceived.
Over the next year, Sunny Stella transformed from a character into a vibrant guide, surprising me as her story blossomed and she became the main character in the Sunny Stella® Series. Her image is copyrighted, with registration completed in 2024; the trademark application was filed in 2025, and the mark was registered in 2026.
Why I created Sunny Stella
I created Sunny Stella to inspire kids and families to try homesteading, connect with nature, and enjoy the rewards of self-sufficiency. My “why” started with a random doodle ~ a sketch ~ a spark that turned into a lively character as I poured my heart into my own homesteading journey.
Looking back at the first sketch to where I am today, I can clearly see that the Sunny Stella character was influenced by my own journey. She’s like a mini-me, lighting the way and keeping me focused.
Homesteading Adventures
Homesteading taught me how to be resilient and build something lasting from the ground up, and I want to share that with kids and their families. The Sunny Stella® Series is my way of helping curious minds to grow anywhere, push through challenges, and create a sustainable future.
In her adventures, Sunny Stella and her friends explore nature, learn practical homesteading skills, notice what’s around them, wonder about what they discover, make connections to what they already know, and build understanding through hands-on, real-world experiences.
Join Sunny Stella as she explores the magic of the natural world and sparks curiosity, creativity, and a deeper respect for the environment. From the first adventure in Backyard Homestead Adventures through Homestead Harmony, the Sunny Stella storybooks invite middle-grade readers to connect with nature, explore their surroundings, and see everyday experiences as opportunities for discovery.
Looking for a clear overview of the Sunny Stella® brand?
For educators, families, or partners seeking a concise explanation of what the Sunny Stella® brand is, who it’s for, and how it’s used, visit the Sunny Stella Resource Hub →