Juvenile Fiction
Illustrator: Amanda Ravensdale
Date Published: June 10, 2025
Publisher: Lucid Books Publishing
It Takes a Forest is a heartwarming tale of courage, community, and the
bonds that hold us together. When Mama Wolf discovers her den is no longer
safe for the winter, she must make a difficult decision to protect her young
pup, Caleb. In the midst of a fierce snowstorm, they venture through the
forest in search of a safe haven. Along the way, they encounter creatures who,
though kind, are unable to provide shelter. Just as hope seems to dwindle,
Mama Wolf finds a family willing to take Caleb in.
As Mama Wolf departs with a tender kiss, Caleb is left with a swirl of
emotions-doubt, fear, and curiosity. Can Mama truly repair their den? What
will it be like to live with a new family? And most importantly, will she keep
her promise to return?
Join Caleb on his journey of discovery as he learns what it means to be part
of a new family, while Mama Wolf works tirelessly to secure their home.
Through the experiences of both Caleb and his foster family, this enchanting
story reminds us all that raising little ones in safety and love takes not
just a parent, but an entire forest.
Interview
Is There a Message in Your Novel That You Want Readers to Grasp?
The message I want kids and adults alike to grasp from my book is that we all have a part to play in the “forest” in order to help those who are in crisis. We might not be able to give a home to someone in need, but we can provide food, clothes, or even friendship as a way to help. And in turn, when the one in crisis has reached a place of safety, they, too, can help provide for others.
Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?
I think the most challenging part of writing is everything that comes after the initial inspiration and creation of a new idea— the editing, rewriting, and then the waiting for publication. It’s a long time between the fun part of creating something new, and then seeing it reach other people.
How many books have you written and which is your favorite?
This was my first published book, so I think It Takes a Forest is my favorite.
If You had the chance to cast your main character from Hollywood today, who would you pick and why?
For the character of Mama Wolf I would want to cast the voice of Anne Hathaway, who is a very talented actress. I believe she could convey the fear, grief, and eventual resilience of this character and bring believability and grace to the role.
When did you begin writing?
I have loved writing and creating stories since I could hold a pen in my hand. My dad was an excellent storyteller, and I wanted to be like him in that way.
How long did it take to complete your first book?
This book took me a couple weeks to write and rewrite, and then almost a year to get published. The longest part, at least for a children’s book, is all the production that comes after the book’s written.
Did you have an author who inspired you to become a writer?
Most of my favorite writers have inspired me to follow in their footsteps: Louisa May Alcott, Laura Ingalls Wilder, C.S. Lewis, Marilynne Robinson. But more than any of them, I always wanted to be like Jo March or Anne Shirley— my favorite heroines.
What is your favorite part of the writing process?
My favorite part of writing is the process of writing something you didn’t realize you had inside of you. When you look back at the page and think, “I wrote that?” and it doesn’t even feel like you were the one writing. Like something within you was just waiting to be unleashed.
Describe your latest book in 4 words.
Everyone plays a part. :)
Can you share a little bit about your current work or what is in the future for your writing?
I am currently working on some projects that are not children’s books, but I hope to return to children’s literature again in the future!
About the Author
Jessie Todd Mayfield lives in Akron, Ohio where she works as a labor and
delivery nurse by night and writer by day. She is passionate about
children’s literature from her years of teaching English abroad, and
about at-risk children from her family’s own involvement with the
ministry Safe Families for Children and foster care—namely her youngest
brother, Jacob, who was adopted from foster care. Jessie loves to write songs
and travel the country with her bluegrass musician husband, David, who is her
greatest encourager and sweetest soulmate. She is grateful for her family who
has championed this project, and the many families doing the hard work of
making their homes a safe place for children—whether theirs or someone
else’s.
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