Barbara Kimmel is not someone who buried herself in books from an early age. In fact, books terrified her. As a result, she studied math and focused on numbers-oriented careers. When Barbara’s children were young, they were also reluctant readers, so she crafted interactive books to encourage them to read. Eventually, Barbara stumbled into a memoir writing class and spun childhood reflections into essays, plays, and children’s books—rekindling the joy of designing books for her children.
Barbara is a children’s book author and playwright who writes playful, interactive board books and picture books. Her debut children’s book, Hanukkah Hippity-Hop (Kar-Ben Publishing), was named a “Best Jewish Holiday Children’s Books of Fall 2024” by the Association of Jewish Libraries. Barbara’s next project, Purim Possibilities (PJ Publishing), a novelty book featuring Colorforms© stickers, is scheduled for a spring 2026 release. Barbara also writes short stories for children’s magazines, including Highlights and High Five.
Beyond her writing pursuits, Barbara contributes to her community as a dystonia advocate and hospice care volunteer. Barbara holds a B.A. degree from Brown University, where she was the first female mascot, “The Brown Bear.” She and her husband have three grown children and reside in Atlanta, Georgia. To learn more about Barbara and her work, visit barbarakimmelwrites.com.
Barbara is represented by Eve Adler.
