After seven years of active duty service in the United States Air Force, Jocilyn Carver is now adding “published author” to her list of accomplishments.
Carver, currently stationed at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in Tucson, Arizona, recently released her debut children’s book titled Sian’s Adventures with Grandma & Grandpa.
The heartfelt story, now available on Amazon, celebrates the lasting bond between grandchildren and their grandparents—a tribute Carver says was inspired by her own deep connection to her grandparents, all of whom have since passed.
“I was fortunate to be close to my grandparents on both my mom’s and dad’s side,” Carver told KGUN 9.
The idea to write a book in their honor came shortly after her last surviving grandparents passed away in September 2023.
“I think I want to write a book in dedication of them,” she recalled.
On July 4, 2024, Carver began writing the manuscript, determined to honor her family’s legacy. The publishing process, she explained, was far from quick.
“It takes a while, especially with editing,” she noted. “First, they have to approve the manuscript, then you find an illustrator for a children’s book. It was a long process, but definitely worth it.”
Set during a summer stay at her grandparents’ house, Sian’s Adventures with Grandma & Grandpa follows a young girl who discovers the joys of gardening, baking, stargazing, and giving back to the community.
Through each day’s adventure, Sian learns timeless values like patience, kindness, and creativity—lessons Carver hopes will resonate with young readers and adults alike.
“This book is more than just a story,” Carver shared. “One of my grandmothers always wanted to write a book, and having one dedicated to her, I think it would have touched her.”
Although the book missed the 2025 Tucson Festival of Books submission window, Carver has plans to register for next year’s event and continue sharing her message on the importance of intergenerational relationships.
“I hope people realize the importance of grandparents,” she said. “They teach us things we carry with us for the rest of our lives.”
Carver joins a growing list of service members using their voices beyond the uniform to uplift, inspire, and educate.
With Sian’s Adventures with Grandma & Grandpa, she not only pays homage to her family but contributes to the broader movement of diverse storytelling in children’s literature.
