by Jen Fier Jasinski

When I was pregnant with my second child, I read my young daughter many “New Baby and Big Sister” books. Sing-songy books about how being a big sister is the best thing in the world! Factual books about how babies grow and are born. And more than a few books about how being a big sister is a job—complete with the responsibilities of finding Mommy clean diapers and playing quietly when the baby sleeps! (Woohoo!)

While each of these titles proved helpful in their own way, I found myself on a search for a book that emphasized the many facets of siblinghood as a lifelong bond. I wanted to read my daughter a story that recognized the unique experiences siblings share—a book filled with the kinds of moments siblings laugh about together even as adults, from squabbling and mischief-making to teaming together and resolving conflicts.

I knew the Beverly Cleary quote, “If you don’t see the book you want on the shelves, write it.”

Chock-full of hormones and fueled by ample adorable new baby + sibling moments, it was a joy to write BECAUSE OF YOU, I’M A SISTER.

Here’s the amazing cover featuring art by the incredibly talented illustrator, Lisa Chow:

Like me, Lisa is a sister and a mother of two girls. Her style is quirky. Her humor is dry. She gets excited about ideas and runs with them in a flurry of color and swirl. I’d really like to get coffee with her. And I’d also like for you to hear from her in this cover reveal post!

Thanks Jen! I would love a coffee! Anytime!

When this manuscript came across my desk, I knew it was meant to be. As a big sister and now mother of sisters, I could immediately picture all the silly and sweet and downright annoying moments I wanted to capture in this book. 

For example, I definitely got my start in art by practicing on my childhood home’s living room walls. And as a big sister to two little brothers, I had to learn how to split desserts into thirds. Thirds! Do you know how hard that is?!

But my most favorite illustration in the book is a four-act story of misunderstanding and betrayal over cupcakes. You’ll have to read the book to find it!

We cannot express how lucky we feel that this story resonated with Frances Gilbert and Elizabeth Tardiff at Doubleday Books for Young Readers. They took the humor and heart in the story and amplified it, literally making dreams come true. They made Because of You, I’m a Sister an ideal gift for baby showers, new big sisters, and even grown-up siblings.

We hope you love the final product as much as we do!

BECAUSE OF YOU, I’M A SISTER is available for pre-order now for a February 10, 2026 release.

Jen Fier Jasinski is giving away either a 30-minute AMA virtual session or a copy of the book (winner’s choice) to TWO blog readers!

Please leave a comment to enter and two winners will be randomly chosen at the end of July!

Good luck!