We are excited to introduce you to this week’s Meet a Mom and local children’s book author, Taylor Tomlinson!
Hello! Please introduce yourself.
Hi! I’m Taylor Tomlinson — a mom, a Chicago suburbs girl at heart, and the creator of the Goodnight Series. I love taking young readers on whimsical nighttime adventures as they say goodnight to beloved locations across the Chicago suburbs. My goal is to bring the charm and character of these communities to life, sparking curiosity, nostalgia, and a sense of connection — both on the page and beyond. Current featured communities include Libertyville & Vernon Hills, Glen Ellyn & Wheaton, Chicago’s North Shore, Naperville, La Grange, Hinsdale, and Western Springs (available in English and Español) — with more still to come in 2026 and beyond!
Where are you from and where do you currently live?
I grew up in Green Oaks, Illinois—go Oak Grove Eagles! Writing Goodnight, Libertyville & Vernon Hills truly felt like a love letter to the community where I spent most of my childhood. My days were filled with summers at Adler Pool, weekends on the soccer fields with GLSA, finding our family’s second dog at Lambs Farm, great burgers at Mickey Finn’s, dance classes at Dance Center North, and countless evenings exploring Cook Memorial Library. My aunt and uncle still live in Vernon Hills, and I spent a lot of time visiting them growing up—so I also have fond memories of trips to Hawthorn Mall, annual summer outing for Vernon Hills Days and dance recitals at the Cuneo Museum. My family then spent several years in Michigan, and after moving back to the Chicago area following college, I now call Western Springs, Illinois home with my husband and our toddler.
Do you have children?
We have one energetic, sweet, and endlessly fun three-year-old who keeps us on our toes and fills our days with joy.
Can you share your TOP 5 favorite local businesses?
Favorite Restaurants: Mickey Finn’s. The Picnic Basket. Wildberry. Other local favorites: The Mini Edit (IG: @shop_miniedit), About Time Bookstore, How Impressive!, Lamb’s Farm, and Marigold.
What books inspire you the most?
Dr. Seuss was a favorite author growing up. His ability to blend wordplay with imagination is something I try to bring into my own writing, especially in Goodnight, Libertyville & Vernon Hills, where the rhythm and flow are key to creating a soothing, comforting experience for young readers.
Tell us about your business/organization.
A winner of the 2025 Golden Wizard Book Prize, TDT Books brings beloved Chicago suburban locations to life through charming rhymes and beautiful illustrations, creating magical nighttime adventures for the whole family. Designed for bedtime routines and meaningful gifting, the collection extends beyond books to include coordinating coloring books and 60-piece puzzles that offer interactive, family-friendly ways to experience each story.
Why do you love your job?
I love being a children’s book author because I get to help families create meaningful memories together. I enjoy sparking curiosity, celebrating local communities, and helping children feel connected to the world around them. When a child points to a page and says, “I’ve been there!” that’s the best reward. My books are really love letters to the communities that shape us and to the families who call them home.
How has this community been instrumental in getting you to where you are now?
The Libertyville community has been incredibly supportive. From local families who have embraced my book to schools, libraries, and local businesses that have welcomed me, the encouragement I’ve received has been invaluable. The community’s enthusiasm for celebrating local stories and creating meaningful experiences for children has inspired me every step of the way. Knowing that families are reading and sharing my books together is a joy that never gets old.
What is your favorite thing about the Libertyville Area Moms Network?
If I had to pick one thing, it would be how Libertyville Area Moms brings together a huge amount of local information in one place—events, family activities, local businesses, parent resources, and community spotlights—so parents don’t have to spend hours searching for it themselves. The site’s stated mission is “giving moms the gift of time,” and its curated approach really reflects that.
Are you involved in any volunteering or philanthropy? Do you have a favorite local non-profit or charity?
My husband and I are deeply committed to giving back. After our son was born with a congenital heart defect and required emergency open-heart surgery, we became passionate supporters of Mend A Heart Foundation and A Giving Heart Foundation, helping raise funds for congenital heart defect research and family support—a cause that is especially close to our hearts. Through my book “Goodnight, Mama,” which I co-wrote with my sister, we donate 10% of all book sales to the National Leiomyosarcoma Foundation to help support research, raise awareness, and assist families affected by this rare cancer. I also serve as a board member for the foundation, honoring my mother’s legacy by helping advance its mission.
Anything else you would like to share?
The stories don’t end on the last page—follow me on Instagram @TaylorDTomlinson or on Facebook (facebook.com/TDTbooks) for ongoing story time magic, new book releases, and more community moments across Chicago’s suburbs.
