Meet Donna Thornton
Discover the heart behind the stories and step into Donna Thornton’s world of heartwarming children’s books, where imagination, animals, and holiday magic come together.
Inspired by the animals on her mother’s farm, Donna’s stories bring warmth, hope, and love to children’s literature. Her books make meaningful gifts for Easter baskets, Christmas mornings, and the little readers you love most.
Whether you’re choosing a new adventure for your child’s bookshelf or starting a family tradition of rereading a favorite holiday story year after year, Donna’s books are made to be treasured, shared, and remembered.
My Journey into Children's Literature
My passion for writing began with the encouragement and patience of incredible high school English teachers. They ignited a spark in me that continues to burn many years later.
So, how did I begin writing children’s books? Completely by accident.
In 2007, I gave my mother a story for Mother’s Day featuring a newborn donkey born on her farm that winter. That simple gift became the beginning of my journey. With my mother’s encouragement, I later published the story now known as The Christmas Donkey.
My parents did the hard work of nurturing the animals on their farm and the very animals who became my precious characters. My wonderful husband continues to inspire me to keep writing. Talented artist Kay Rugh brings the stories beautifully to visual life, and my publisher and her dedicated team make the entire process feel effortless.
Most importantly, my readers, children and adults alike, are a constant source of inspiration, fueling every new tale.
What Makes These Stories Special
What makes my books so special is that the animals and characters within them are inspired by real animals from a real farm. Mountain View Berry Farm in Landrum, South Carolina, is home to the beloved cast that brings my stories to life.
That real-life connection gives each book an authentic charm and a sense of warmth that children and families can feel as they read.
Beyond the fun and imagination, my hope is that these stories offer children a small glimpse of God’s immense love for them. Each book is written with care, sharing gentle lessons, wonder, and a reminder that love, hope, and kindness can be found in even the simplest moments.
Connecting with my cherished readers
One of the greatest joys of being a children’s author is sharing wholesome stories brought to life through beautiful artwork. I love knowing that my books can offer children positive, meaningful, and enriching moments as they read.
Connecting with my readers is especially rewarding. Seeing their smiles, hearing their thoughts, and knowing that my stories have become part of their family’s reading time means so much to me.
Those moments continue to inspire my mission: to create stories that uplift young hearts, encourage imagination, and leave children and families with a sense of joy, hope, and wonder.
"I hope my stories encourage children to know there is hope and love surrounding them every day of their lives."
Donna Thornton