Maria Antonia is a children's author whose picture books combine engaging storytelling with themes of faith, belonging, and perseverance. Her published works include The Christmas Elephant: A Nativity Story and Barnaby the Runaway Sheep, both released by Paraclete Press and praised for their warmth and kid-friendly appeal. A former educator, she regularly connects with students, teachers, and families through author visits, media appearances, and literacy events.
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Maria Antonia is represented by literary agent, Stephanie Cardel, at Lighthouse Literary.
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MARIA ANTONIA uses tea to power her writing. She is the author of two picture books, The Christmas Elephant and Barnaby the Runaway Sheep, as well as numerous magazine stories. She can't help but love a good "tea-riffic" pun. Find out more at MariaAntoniaWrites.com
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MARIA ANTONIA learned to write her name at five years old and tried typing with an old manual typewriter at age eight. However, it was when she met the computer that she never turned back. Many years later, she still clickety-taps out her stories onto the screen, stories that have turned into picture books like The Christmas Elephant and Barnaby the Runaway Sheep. She has published stories in children’s magazines such as Spider, Storytime, and Clubhouse Jr. In addition to writing, Maria also enjoys sipping a nice cup of hot tea and capturing the world with her camera. She has lived in Sunny Spain, Busy New York City, and currently resides in the Great White North of Canada. Visit her website: MariaAntoniaWrites.com
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MARIA ANTONIA worked as an elementary school teacher before becoming an author, an experience that deepened her appreciation for children’s literature and the important role stories play in a child’s life. As an author, she enjoys visiting schools and libraries, where she shares her passion for reading, writing, and creativity with audiences of all ages. Maria’s books, The Christmas Elephant and Barnaby the Runaway Sheep, combine humor and heart while exploring themes of belonging, courage, trust, and faith. Whether she is writing about an aspiring Christmas elephant or a runaway sheep learning to trust his shepherds, she loves creating memorable characters that encourage meaningful conversations between children and the adults who read with them. When she isn’t writing, she can often be found with a camera in hand, capturing the beauty of the world around her, or enjoying a cup of hot tea while dreaming up her next story. She believes that stories have the power to inspire, connect, and leave a lasting impression long after the final page is turned. Each month, she uses her graphic design skills to put out a monthly newsletter with free activities for families and classrooms alike. Twice a year, her subscribers are sent a free ezine with short stories, crafts, activities, and more. Visit her website: MariaAntoniaWrites.com
"A quirky story about a tenacious girl who wants to express herself and celebrate Christmas and Baby Jesus... The soft, muted tones of the illustrations add a flare of holiday spirit and a touch of simplistic softness that is nostalgic to the season." — School Library Journal (on The Christmas Elephant)
"The perfect warm holiday tale in times of chaos and pressure to be perfect." — Donna Barba Higuera, Newbery Medal Winner (on The Christmas Elephant)
"The Christmas Elephant is a delightful story that's sure to capture the hearts of families everywhere." - Jed Doherty, Reading With Kids podcast
"In this charming tale, Barnaby is oh-so-relatable as he learns to trust his beloved shepherd." — Janet Sumner Johnson, award-winning author
"With frolicsome text by Maria Antonia and adorable illustrations by Sayani Mukherjee, Barnaby the Runaway Sheep is a sure-to-please take on a beloved parable about a little lamb." — Laura Sassi, author
CFN Live
Air Date: March 4, 2025
Maria Antonia's back on CFN Live to talk about her new picture book, Barnaby the Runaway Sheep!
BookWorthy Podcast with Valerie Fentress
Air Date: June 11, 2025
Maria joins Valerie once more to chat about my journey to publication with Barnaby.
Bible For Kids Podcast with Sarah Humphrey and Mike Nawrocki
Air Date: September 30, 2024
Maria Antonia chats with Sarah Humphrey and Mike Nawrocki (aka Larry the Cucumber!) about her background in theatre and the inspiration for writing The Christmas Elephant!
Reading With Your Kids Podcast with Jed Doherty
Air Date: November 8, 2024
Join Maria as she talks with a veteran of the magic show circuit Jedlie about elephants and missing props and about being brave to do the things we love.
Her segment begins at the 33 minute mark.
BookWorthy Podcast with Valerie Fentress
Air Date: Wednesday, November 20, 2024
Valerie and Maria chat about her journey to publication, favorite books, and why she writes for kids.
The Wednesday Bookmark with Care Baldwin
Air Date: Wednesday, November 27, 2024
Maria Antonia chats with Care Baldwin about Christmas pageants and more.
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