About Dawn

As an author, artist, and teacher, Dawn Marie Hooks shares her passion for picture books and painting.

When Dawn was a little girl, she slept hugging her favorite picture book, The Mitten. As Dawn grew, her collection and passion for picture books grew. While working on her Bachelor of Arts degree and Master of Science in Education, Dawn’s favorite class was children’s literature because she loved how picture books integrate art, academics, and inspiration. Dawn minored in art, taking a variety of fine art courses. She spent over ten years as an elementary teacher, incorporating picture books into every subject she taught.

Dawn’s love for art and children’s literature transformed into creating her own picture books. She took classes and attended conferences focused on writing and illustrating children’s books. As the final project for one of her graduate courses, she completed and self-published her first book, Oh, Cookie!.  Since then, she has not stopped working on turning more ideas into books. She creates beautiful watercolor illustrations and writes heartwarming stories about dreams, determination, and overcoming challenges. In 2015, her work was first published by a small press publisher. She is a PAL (Published and Listed) member of SCBWI and speaks to school, parent, and teacher groups. She continues to teach privately, both art and core subjects.

Dawn also shares her passions through creating custom artwork. Her vibrant acrylic paintings express the beautiful flow and movement of water. They are inspired by memories of splashing in the ocean, hiking along rivers and waterfalls, and playing in the lake with her family.

Dawn lives in Phoenix, AZ, with her husband, two awesome daughters, and their cuddly cockapoo, Maui.  When she isn’t working, she enjoys yoga, coffee, reading, and spending sunny days on the water with her family. Wake surfing is her favorite sport. Dawn was the 2019 World Champion in the Masters Female Surf division.