Bio:

Kimberly Ann Francis has always wanted to write a children's book and when she became her niece Payten's nanny in September 2010, she gained inspiration to do so.

Francis has loved art and has been creative since she was a child. Her family has been her biggest support and has encouraged her dream of becoming an author.

Francis started to write Payten and Nannie Ann, Painting Our Way Home in January of 2010. Payten was 5 months old and a good listener, Francis said with a smile. "Reading my book to my now 18 month old niece is surreal and amazing! She is able to take an adventure to Tuolumne County with her Nannie Ann through a book and in real life."

Francis has loved growing up in Tuolumne County, where she attended Sonora High School and Columbia Junior College, before transferring to the University of the Pacific. "I am a proud Wildcat, Claim Jumper and Pacific Tiger!" Graduating in 2005 from University, Francis came back to Sonora to continue her education at Columbia College in the field of Travel and Tourism.

Her love for Tuolumne County started as a child, as well as into her professional and adult life. She interned and worked at the Tuolumne County Visitors Bureau and Tuolumne County Chamber of Commerce. "I didn't just receive great experience, but I gained mentors and great friends!"

Francis is the 4th generation in Sonora. Her great grandfather Joe Francis and grandfather Ralph Francis owned the Opera Hall Garage, which is featured in her children's book. On page 8, Francis's illustration of the Opera Hall Garage has a door with a golden glow, representing her grandfather's. "Painting my community with my niece has been so special! She loves books and now we have one more book that we can read together full of our favorite places."

Francis is working on additional books about adventures with her niece, along with children's books featuring friendship, love and animals. Watercolors, acrylics and block prints will be her medium of choice for the illustrations.

Francis had her book signing on December 10, 2011 at the Ventana Art Gallery downtown Sonora,CA. "I couldn't wait to share my book with my community!"


Writer/Illustrator
Full Member
Member since 2012
Region: California: North/Central

Contact Information

Email:  kfrancis33@gmail.com
Current Location:   CA
Website:  http://www.kimberlyannfrancis.com

Published In Children's Market: Yes