Meet
The Author

Paula Johnson Neal holds a degree in early childhood development from The Ohio State University. Raised in Toledo and now residing in Columbus, Ohio, she delights in zip-lining, indoor skydiving, and traveling. She is a two-time chili cook-off champion, known for baking her renowned yellow cake with chocolate frosting, and dedicates time to volunteer as a guest reader at children's literary events.

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I'm Gonna Have A Good Day was published in June 2019. In May 2021, Paula received the Saint Vincent Family Center Corcoran Award for the book's impact on youth served by SVFC and the community. She is passionate about sharing life stories through the perspective of young children. Paula enjoys observing and listening to what they say, how they say it, and why. "I'm Gonna Have A Good Day" was created to foster open discussions with young children about their social and emotional challenges. The story encourages dialogue that helps children think and share ideas for improved interactions with peers. 

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Paula's sophomore children's book, Breathe, Gabby, Breathe is the sequel that does not disappoint! It takes the readers on a bumpy roller coaster ride to witness Gabby's struggles while cheering her on for a better school day.

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Paula’s Newest Adventure — Gabby Meets Kindness Just in time for the back-to-school season, Gabby Meets Kindness is the third story in the beloved series—a heartwarming tale of change, empathy, self-regulation, compassion, and friendship. In this story, young readers follow Gabby as she comforts and befriends a new student named Kindness, who is struggling on her first day of school.