About

Dawn Patillo is a Virginia-based children's book author whose JJ series celebrates the wonder, curiosity, and joy of early childhood. Her books — JJ's Magic Clay and JJ's First Field Trip — invite young readers to explore creativity, embrace new experiences, and find magic in everyday moments.

A proud James Madison University alumna ('90) and a graduate of The Catholic University of America, where she earned her Master of Science in Strategic Management ('16), Dawn brings warmth, intention, and a deep love of learning to every page she writes. Her academic journey — from JMU's storied campus to one of Washington D.C.'s premier universities — reflects the same curiosity and lifelong love of growth she pours into her books for young readers.

Dawn believes the stories children encounter earliest shape how they see themselves and the world around them — and she writes with that responsibility joyfully in mind.

Dawn lives in Virginia with her family and is available for school visits, library readings, and author events for PreK through 3rd grade audiences.