A native Hoosier her whole life, Heidi Jiang discovered her love of reading at an early age. She’s a big fan of the Wimpy Kid series and any book with a dog on the cover. In all seriousness, she loves reading just about anything – including the back of cereal boxes.
She currently resides in Indiana with her husband, a dog named Lucky, a cat named Oliver, and a couple children rapidly heading toward being teens. She is looking forward to writing several middle grade chapter books and helping make the Hoosier Chapter Books blog a very special place.
Over the years, Heidi Jiang has been a book reviewer, freelance copy editor, editor at a small publishing company (Muncie Free Press), and executive editor at her school’s literary magazine. She built her writing style on her love of reading and her love of editing.
By working with the Hoosier Chapter Books team, Heidi hopes to show kids that reading can be fun, books can be funny, and that anyone can be a writer.
Latest Blog Posts by Heidi Jiang
Best Inclusive Toys for Special Needs in 2024
Discover thoughtfully designed toys that support diverse developmental needs while making play accessible and enjoyable. This guide showcases top-rated inclusive toys that promote engagement, skill development, and joy for children with various abilities. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or caregiver, these selections aim to offer valuable insights into choosing the right playthings to fulfill specific … Read more
Best Toys for Special Needs Children in 2024: Inclusive Play
In today’s world, the concept of toys and play has evolved to be more inclusive and considerate of children with unique developmental needs. Toys designed specifically for children with special needs hold immense value as they emphasize inclusivity, sensory engagement, and the enhancement of adaptive skills. These toys are not just playthings; they are tools … Read more
Boost Your Dog’s Brainpower with These Vet-Approved Pooch Toys
INDIANAPOLIS, IN – Dogs are more than just loyal companions; they’re intelligent creatures with a thirst for mental stimulation. While all dogs are inherently good, even the most well-behaved pups can benefit from activities that challenge their minds and keep them engaged. One common issue many dog owners face is their furry friends eating too … Read more
Top Toy Trends 2024: From Eco-Warriors to Anime Dreams (a Playful Revolution!)
In the ever-evolving world of play, 2024 has ushered in a new era of toys that reflect our changing society, technological advancements, and global influences. The toy industry is booming, with innovations that cater to a wide range of interests and values. From eco-conscious playthings to anime-inspired collectibles, this year’s trends are reshaping how children … Read more
Best Dolls and Action Figures of 2024: Iconic Characters and Heroes
As the holiday season approaches, parents and gift-givers are already on the lookout for the top Christmas toys in 2024. Among the most sought-after items this year are dolls and action figures, which continue to capture the hearts and imaginations of children worldwide. These timeless toys have evolved significantly, now offering a diverse range of … Read more
Building Toys That Teach: The Best Construction Sets for Boys
In the world of children’s toys, few categories capture the imagination and foster creativity quite like building and construction sets. These toys not only provide hours of entertainment but also play a crucial role in developing important skills such as spatial reasoning, fine motor control, and problem-solving. While enjoyed by children of all genders, building … Read more
How to Create a Family Reading Ritual That Lasts a Lifetime
In a world where screens often dominate our attention, finding meaningful ways to connect as a family can be challenging. One of the most rewarding and lasting traditions you can establish is a family reading ritual. Not only does this practice foster a love of books in children, but it also strengthens the bonds between … Read more
What Toys Will be Hard to Find this Christmas 2023?
Hard to Find Toys 2023? The Holiday Toy Rush: What’s Flying Off the Shelves Every holiday season brings with it a frenzied hunt for the year’s most coveted toys. Whether driven by viral TikTok reviews, influential YouTube unboxings, or simply good old-fashioned word-of-mouth, certain toys rise to the top of everyone’s wish list, making them … Read more
Effective Ways to Encourage Empathy in Your Kids
Empathy is not merely an emotion; it is a profound connective force that binds us together in understanding and mutual respect. It’s the ability to comprehend and share the feelings of others. This emotional skill is crucial for personal growth, relationships, and fostering a compassionate community. The journey of nurturing empathy begins in childhood, and … Read more
12 Easy Card Games for Kids: Our Family Game Night Winners
Do you want to find some easy card games for kids for the long winter months? I’ve created a list of the easiest games involving cards with kids in mind. Some are fine for children to play alone while others are better played with an adult or parent. A few titles on this list are … Read more