Meet the Author
Erin Heinlein is a former English teacher with a lifelong love of storytelling and a passion for inspiring young readers.
She holds a B.A. in English and a Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Virginia Tech University. Drawing on her years in the classroom, Erin writes children’s picture books filled with whimsy, warmth, and imagination. Her stories encourage creativity, kindness, and a love of reading.
She is the author of The Beachside Sleigh Ride and the founder of Hudshaw Publishing, an independent imprint dedicated to creating meaningful books for families, classrooms, and young readers everywhere.
Children’s book author, storyteller, and founder of Hudshaw Publishing.
Hi, I’m Erin
I’m a children’s book author, mom, and lifelong lover of meaningful stories, especially the kind that are read aloud, well loved, and remembered long after the last page is turned.
I wrote The Beachside Sleigh Ride to capture the magic of childhood, the wonder of Christmas, and the joy my family feels whenever we visit the ocean. It is our favorite place to slow down, explore, and simply be together.
My hope is to create warm, magical picture books full of heart; stories that become part of family traditions and bedtime routines for years to come.
Why I Write for Children
I believe children’s books hold a special kind of magic. They teach kindness without preaching, bravery without fear, and imagination without limits.
When a child sees themselves reflected in a story, something wonderful begins to grow. They start to believe their small actions matter, their voice is important, and their dreams are worth following.
That belief is what I hope every reader carries with them long after the final page is turned.
About Hudshaw Publishing
Hudshaw Publishing is my independent publishing imprint, created to bring heartfelt, imaginative children’s stories to life.
The name Hudshaw is a blend of my sons’ names, Hudson and Shawn, and represents everything I hope my books will be: personal, meaningful, and filled with love.
Through Hudshaw Publishing, I focus on creating beautifully crafted children’s picture books that celebrate kindness, curiosity, and the joy found in everyday moments.
A Few Little Things About Me
I’m a lifelong baseball fan ⚾ — if I’m not watching a game at home, I’m probably at the fields watching Hudson play or cheering on the Orioles.
I love getting lost in a good book and always have a story in progress.
Writing is my favorite quiet-time ritual.
Beach vacations with my family are my happiest reset button.
And our pets are very much part of the family.
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Let’s Stay in Touch
Thank you for being here and for supporting independent authors and small publishing dreams.
If you’d like to follow along on my writing journey, upcoming books, or behind‑the‑scenes moments, you can find me on Instagram or reach out anytime through the contact page.