Brenna Jeanneret Celebrates Girls and Bicycles in "A Bike Is Not Just A Bike"

Hello world!

Welcome to my kidlit blog, Blissfully Bookish. I'm thrilled to highlight a new nonfiction picture book that shines a light on girls who dare to ride and defy expectations, all while leaving their mark on the world of cycling. Join me in welcoming Brenna Jeanneret, who’s here to share her insights about A Bike Is Not Just a Bike: An Ode to Girls Who Dare to Ride, beautifully illustrated by Michelle Pereira and published by Gloo Books.

Don't miss out—Brenna is generously offering a signed copy of her book in a giveaway! Comment on this blog post to enter before October 2, 2026.

From Contest Entry to Impassioned Publication

In her discussion, Brenna reveals that A Bike Is Not Just a Bike began its life as a submission for a short nonfiction contest several years ago. Although the piece did not win, it sparked a significant journey of self-belief and perseverance. “An important sidenote here: even though the piece did not place in that contest, my personal belief in it is what pushed the draft further and ultimately ended in publication,” she notes. Her experience serves as a reminder to aspiring writers that self-belief can be a powerful motivator, even in the face of rejection.

The book serves as a heartfelt tribute to Brenna's parents, who supported her during her struggles with ADHD in the 1980s. “When medication zonked me out, my parents pivoted and gave me a bike,” she remembers. This pivotal moment launched her journey into physical activity as a coping mechanism, celebrating the transformative power of two wheels.

Empowerment Through Cycling

Brenna’s mission with this book is clear: to impart the message that every child is capable of achieving their dreams. “More than anything, I want kids—every kid—to know they can do anything,” she expresses. The narrative not only encourages self-empowerment but also highlights the deep-rooted connection between bicycles and independence, particularly for girls. Historically, bicycles have represented freedom; however, the bike’s significance is often interpreted differently based on who’s riding it. With her vibrant storytelling, Brenna invites young readers to consider this dynamic.

She explains, “The bicycle is an object that can become a symbol of liberation or a source of casual disregard, depending on the gender of the rider.” This nuanced perspective is designed to resonate with children, making the theme approachable and relatable.

The Writing Process: Embracing Creativity

Brenna describes her writing style as that of a “pantser,” someone who writes by the seat of their pants, letting spontaneity guide the process. “Once I’ve drafted a longer work, the revision process is a lot more locked in,” she admits, emphasizing the necessity for some structure during revisions to ensure coherence in storytelling. This balance between a free-spirited approach and plot organization keeps her writing fresh while providing a framework for clarity.

A Peek at Inspirations and Favorite Reads

When asked about books that have inspired her in recent years, Brenna shares her admiration for delightful and engaging titles like How NOT To Make A Jelly Sandwich by Ross Burach, How To Pee Your Pants: The Right Way by Rachel Michelle Wilson, and This Book Is Definitely Not Cursed by Megan Woodward and Risa Rodil. Her nonfiction favorites include Up, Up, Ever Up!, which chronicles the life of Junko Tabei, a pioneering female mountaineer. Such selections underscore Brenna’s appreciation for narratives that combine both whimsy and impactful stories that encourage perseverance and exploration.

Words of Wisdom for Aspiring Writers

Reflecting on her journey in the competitive world of publishing, Brenna offers this valuable advice to fellow writers: “The industry is hard. Really hard. If you need a break, take one. But know this: if you believe, anything is possible.” This perspective highlights the importance of resilience, faith in one's craft, and the necessity for self-care during the creative process.

Favorite Childhood Reads and Musical Themes

As a delightful bonus question, Brenna shares her favorite childhood book, The Westing Game by Ellen Raskin, a classic that many young readers cherish for its mystery and depth. When asked what song might act as the anthem for her book, she mentions "Rebel Girl" by Bikini Kill, a fitting tribute that aligns perfectly with the themes of independence and empowerment present in her own pages.

About Brenna Jeanneret

Brenna Jeanneret is a neurodiverse children’s author and a proud member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI). Her debut, The Law of Birthdays, launched in 2024 via Cardinal Rule Press, alongside her upcoming projects, including A Bike Is Not Just A Bike, showcases her vibrant storytelling and commitment to amplifying diverse voices in children's literature. When she’s not writing, you might find her conquering mountains or enjoying family road trips throughout Colorado.

Discover More

Connect with Brenna through her official website brennajeanneret.com and follow her on Instagram and Bluesky at @brennajeanneret. Explore her book further through Gloo Books.

This interview not only illuminates Brenna’s creative process but also serves as an inspiring reminder for readers and writers alike: believing in oneself can lead to incredible journeys, on and off the bike.