Mora Soan Brings Magic and Adventure to Young Readers Through Jacob the Gnome Series
In a cozy Stafford home with a backyard garden dotted with whimsical gnome figurines, local author Mora Soan has found inspiration for a children's book series that's capturing young imaginations across the region—and encouraging them to try new things!
Soan's journey into children's literature began with a simple conversation with her daughter after returning from a trip to Japan. "After taking a trip to Japan without my daughter, she asked me to tell her about my vacation," Soan recalls. "As I shared my experiences, ideas began to flourish. I realized that if my daughter was curious about Japan, other children might be too, so I decided to share my adventure with them."
That conversation blossomed into Jacob in Japan, the first book in the Jacob the Gnome series, with Soan's daughter serving as illustrator. The series follows Jacob, described by Soan as "a gentle, clumsy, and picky little gnome," who travels through a magic flowerpot to explore different countries, including Japan, Canada, and Korea.
The character of Jacob emerged from an unlikely source: Soan's own backyard. "My backyard garden inspired my main character, Jacob the gnome, and his picky eating habits come from my own children learning to eat healthier," she explains. "I bought my first gnome to add a little magic to my garden, and over time, collecting gnomes became a joy."
Growing up in Montreal, Canada, Soan's literary influences run deep. She cites Lucy Maud Montgomery's classics as foundational to her writing dreams. "Growing up with limited means, these stories felt like an escape into another side of the world and taught me to appreciate childhood discovery, nature, and simple pleasures," she says, referring to Anne of Green Gables and the Martine series that shaped her youth.
Now working at a local school, Soan draws daily inspiration from her young students. "Working at a school and spending time with children strongly influences my writing. Seeing how kids think, feel, and learn helps me create stories that are relatable, gentle, and meaningful for young readers."
Fredericksburg itself plays a role in nurturing her creativity. Soan enjoys walking around downtown Fredericksburg to spark her imagination, and counts Jabberwocky Bookshop among her favorite local spots—"a wonderful independent bookstore with a warm, welcoming feel."
Currently, Soan is working on Jacob in Hawaii, slated for publication this summer. In this new adventure, Jacob meets a kind sea turtle who helps him learn an important lesson about perseverance. "As he struggles with trying new things, the sea turtle encourages him not to give up when things feel hard the first time," Soan shares. "Through their friendship, Jacob gains courage, patience, and confidence, helping him grow into a better gnome."
This may be the final chapter in Jacob's adventures, as Soan's daughter prepares to leave for college next year. "My daughter is heading to college next year, so this may be my last book. We will see where the journey takes us," she notes.
For aspiring writers in the community, Soan offers refreshingly straightforward advice: "Just go for it. Do not overthink it. Write for your own journey and for your own joy. Do not be afraid to try, because every story begins with taking that first step."
At its heart, Soan's work reflects her hope for how families engage with her stories. "I hope my stories encourage children and families to slow down, stay curious, and enjoy the small moments together," she says.
"If Jacob's adventures can spark imagination, kindness, or a love of reading, then I feel grateful to be part of that journey."
