Meet the author
Amanda Bernardo is a Canadian children’s book author based out of Ottawa, Ontario.
In 2014, Amanda set out to publish her first children’s book, Little Voice, and later its French counterpart, La petite voix. Inspired by her own inner voice, Little Voice is a reminder that we all carry a voice within us — one that encourages us to dream, to speak up, and to shine. Some voices are loud and impossible to ignore, while others are quiet, buried under self-doubt or fear. Sometimes, we don’t hear this voice at all, or we choose not to. But when we do, and when we’re brave enough to follow it, that voice can lead the way — not just for ourselves, but for others trying to listen to their inner voice too.
Amanda then went on to publish her second book in 2017, The Lighthouse, which is also available in French, Le phare.
The Lighthouse was inspired by Amanda’s own experiences and aims to help children recognize, name, and talk about their emotions. It encourages caregivers and educators to meet those emotions with compassion, patience, and understanding. Just as lighthouses guide ships to safety through rough waters, this book aims to be a beacon—for the children who feel overwhelmed, for the adults trying to support them, and for a world that is learning, slowly but surely, how to better understand and support mental health.
Amanda’s goal in writing children’s books is to help spark meaningful conversations—both at home and in the classroom—on topics that are often overlooked, underrepresented, or difficult to navigate. She believes that stories can be powerful tools for connection, offering children and the adults in their lives a safe and accessible way to explore complex emotions, important values, and real-life challenges. Through her books, Amanda aims to fill gaps in today’s literature and create space for dialogue, understanding, and growth.
Amanda is currently working on her newest children’s book, The Road to You, inspired by her journey as a first time mom.
Books
As a parent, I like a book that is fun to read with a positive message. A timeless book that can grow with him as well. In my opinion, there are very few books that fit this category, and Little Voice is one of them.
Amy
Mom
As a teacher, I believe Little Voice and The Lighthouse have the potential to be used across a wide variety of school based resources; they are stories that will help students from all walks of life.
Stefanie
MOM & TEACHER
As a mom I want squash any negative voices that my kiddos face. I want to teach them to listen to their “little voice” inside and know that they can do whatever they put their minds to. Little Voice helps me do just that!
Regina
MOM & BLOGGER
Whatever it is about this endearing book that captures her attention, I’ll keep reading it to her. As she gets older, she’ll understand its inspiring message—to trust herself and follow her heart.
Margaret
MOM
Coming soon!
The Road to You is a celebration of love, patience, and resilience—the kind that carries us through the journey to parenthood. It’s a tribute to every path, especially the ones that took a little longer or looked a little different.
It speaks to the quiet longing, the hope-filled prayers, and the unspoken struggles of building a family. But it also speaks to the love and magic of new beginnings.
Pre-order your copy today!
Launching February 2026.
Giving back
For Amanda, writing has never just been about storytelling … it’s about creating meaningful impact. That’s why Amanda chooses to use a portion of the proceeds from her books to give back. Whether supporting mental health initiatives or contributing to community programs that reflect the values behind her work, she believes that stories should not only inspire but also empower real change. By reinvesting in the causes that matter most to her and her readers, Amanda turns her words into action—proving that success is most powerful when it’s shared.
To date, Amanda has donated over $11,000 in support of her local community initiatives, the Alzheimer Society of Canada, and the National Canadian Mental Health Association.
Get in touch
For all wholesale inquiries, book signings, or just to say hi, please use the contact form below.
