The Hey A.J.! Collection
igniting
the power of imagination
one story at a time
Venture into the wondrous and whimsical world of Hey A.J.!, a heartfelt children’s book series inspired by the magic of childhood and the power of imagination. Follow A.J., a creative and spirited young girl, as she transforms ordinary moments into extraordinary adventures.
Embark on heartwarming adventures filled with laughter, wonder, and togetherness.
With stories that bring toys to life, turn kitchens into playful chaos, and make bedtime a fantastical journey, Hey A.J.! celebrates the joy of play, family connections, and the limitless possibilities of imaginative young minds. These books inspire families to dream big, play together, imagine more, and embrace the joy of creativity that lives in every child’s heart.
inspired by fatherhood
The Hey A.J. series is a heartfelt collection of children's books inspired by my daughter, Austyn Jett, affectionately known as A.J.. These stories were born from a father's love and a desire to empower his daughter's imagination. When I realized there was a lack of books featuring characters who looked like my daughter and focused on encouraging imaginative play, I decided to create my own.
“Hey A.J., It’s Saturday!” and “Hey A.J., It’s Bedtime” are the first two books I ever published. I wrote these books for my daughter, A.J., when she was not even old enough to read.
Spending countless hours reading to her, I quickly ran out of books with characters who looked like her and stories that focused on empowering her imagination. Determined to fill this gap, I decided to write my own books, drawing inspiration from the silly things A.J. did and turning them into delightful stories.
At the time, most books featuring young Black kids focused on self-love and identity. While important, I wanted something different for my daughter—books that encouraged her to dream bigger, imagine more, and engage in imaginative play.
Despite knowing little about book publishing, I was determined to figure it out. A.J. became my firstborn in both real life and creatively. The birth of my daughter unlocked a new creative drive, I don’t think I would have created nearly as much as I have if it weren’t for fatherhood.
meet A.j.
A.J. is a vibrant and imaginative young girl whose creativity knows no bounds. Her world is filled with endless possibilities, where everyday objects and toys come to life through her vivid imagination. A.J.'s playful nature makes her adventures both fun and unpredictable, as she approaches life with a sense of wonder and excitement. Her cleverness and resourcefulness shine through when she faces challenges, using her quick thinking to find solutions, even if they sometimes lead to more chaos. A.J. is a dreamer, always envisioning new possibilities and thinking about what she can create or do next.
A.J.'s interests and hobbies are a testament to her artistic and inventive spirit. She loves to draw, paint, and craft, using these activities as a means to express her creativity and bring her imagination to life. Her love for dancing and making music adds another layer to her character, showcasing her passion for rhythm and movement. A.J.'s creativity extends to inventing new games and activities, always looking for new ways to have fun and explore her world.
A.J.'s appearance is as vibrant as her personality. Her wild and free hair symbolizes her untamed imagination and spirit, while her expressive face and body language vividly reflect her emotions and thoughts. These traits make her a relatable and engaging character for young readers.
However, A.J.'s overactive imagination sometimes gets the best of her, leading to humorous and endearing situations that spiral out of control. These moments highlight her independence and her desire to do things on her own, like making breakfast, while also showing that she is still learning and growing.
A.J.'s relationships with her family and her toys are central to her character. Her parents' trust and support, even when they are not directly involved, provide her with the confidence to explore and create.
Her toys and stuffed animals are more than just playthings; they are her companions and co-adventurers, reflecting different aspects of her personality and imagination when they come to life.
Throughout her adventures, A.J. learns valuable lessons about creativity, problem-solving, and the importance of family support. Each challenge she overcomes helps her build confidence in her abilities, reinforcing her belief in herself and her creative potential.
A.J.'s character embodies the themes of imagination, creativity, and empowerment. Her adventures are not only entertaining but also serve as a source of inspiration for young readers, encouraging them to embrace their own creativity and dreams.
You never know where your imagination will take you, so always dress ready for the adventure!
-A.J.
My imagination is my superpower—when I dream big, I can turn the ordinary into something amazing!
-A.J.
HEy A.J., IT’s Saturday!
"Hey A.J., It's Saturday," A.J. wakes up on a Saturday morning and decides to make breakfast while her parents are asleep. She brings her stuffed animals and toys to the kitchen, and as she starts to play and cook, they come to life. A.J.'s imaginative and playful nature leads to a series of fun and chaotic adventures, showcasing her creativity and independence. This story celebrates the boundless potential of young minds and encourages readers to dream big and embrace their unique qualities.
HEy A.J., IT’s bedtime!
"Hey A.J., It's Bedtime" follows A.J. as she struggles to fall asleep because her imagination is running wild. Her bedroom transforms into a fantastical world where her toys and stuffed animals embark on exciting adventures. Through this story, A.J. learns to navigate her overactive imagination and find ways to calm herself before sleep. This tale highlights the importance of creativity and the power of imagination in making everyday moments magical.
the art of
hey A.J.!
a fantastical and wondrous
Cartoony world
The art of A.J.'s world is cartoony and whimsical, perfectly capturing her wild imagination. The illustrations are vibrant and dynamic, filled with bold colors and playful designs that bring A.J.'s adventures to life. Each page is an animated delight, with characters and scenes that leap off the paper, inviting readers into A.J.'s imaginative realm.
The fast-paced and fun illustrations make readers feel like they are experiencing recess on paper. The energy and movement in the artwork mirror A.J.'s lively personality and the chaotic fun of her imagination.
Every page turn leads to a more playful moment than the one before, keeping readers engaged and excited to see what happens next. This visual style enhances the storytelling, making A.J.'s world feel alive and full of possibilities.
The whimsical nature of the art reflects A.J.'s boundless creativity. Her toys and stuffed animals are depicted with exaggerated features and expressions, adding to the sense of magic and wonder.
Anywhere A.J. and her friends go is transformed into a fantastical playground where anything can happen. The illustrations capture the essence of A.J.'s imagination, showing how she sees the world in a unique and creative way.
By weaving these elements together, the art of A.J.'s world embodies the themes of imagination, creativity, and empowerment. The playful and energetic illustrations not only entertain but also inspire young readers to embrace their own creativity and dreams.
A.J.'s adventures, brought to life through the whimsical art, serve as a source of inspiration, encouraging children to see the world through their own imaginative lens.
The visual style of the book is a crucial component of its appeal. It makes A.J.'s character and her adventures even more engaging and entertaining, drawing readers into her world and making them feel like they are part of the story.
The cartoony and whimsical art perfectly complements the narrative, creating a cohesive and immersive experience that celebrates the power of imagination.
Hey A.J., It's Saturday!
Hey A.J., It's Bedtime!
Hey A.J., It's Saturday!
Hey A.J., It's Bedtime!
Hey A.J., It's Saturday!
Hey A.J., It's Saturday!
Hey A.J., It's Bedtime!
Hey A.J., It's Saturday!
Hey A.J., It's Bedtime!
themes + Values
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The playful nature of A.J.'s world is evident in both books. The stories emphasize that play is crucial for children's development, helping them learn social skills, express themselves, and explore their interests. A.J.'s imaginative play, whether in the kitchen or her bedroom, shows that play can be a powerful tool for learning and growth.
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A.J.'s love for drawing, painting, crafting, dancing, and making music is a central theme in both books. Engaging in creative activities helps children develop fine motor skills, express their emotions, and build self-esteem. The stories encourage children to explore various forms of art and find joy in creating.
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In "Hey A.J., It's Saturday," A.J. faces challenges in the kitchen, while in "Hey A.J., It's Bedtime," she struggles to calm her mind before sleep. Both scenarios require AJ to find solutions, promoting problem-solving skills and resilience. Children learn that they can overcome obstacles with creativity and perseverance.
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The implicit support and trust from A.J.'s parents are felt throughout both books. Whether they are asleep during her breakfast adventure or helping her settle down at bedtime, their presence is a testament to their supportive role in her life. The stories teach children about the value of family support and how it contributes to their confidence and independence.
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Both "Hey A.J., It's Saturday" and "Hey A.J., It's Bedtime" celebrate A.J.'s boundless imagination. Whether she's making breakfast or struggling to fall asleep, A.J.'s creative mind transforms her experiences into extraordinary adventures. This encourages children to think creatively and use their imagination in various situations.
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Both books provide positive representation for young Black girls, helping them see themselves in the stories. This promotes a sense of identity and belonging, which is crucial for children's self-esteem and confidence. The stories celebrate diversity and encourage children to embrace their unique qualities.
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A.J.'s interactions with her toys and the situations she navigates teach valuable social and emotional skills. Children learn about cooperation, empathy, and managing emotions through A.J.'s experiences. These skills are essential for building healthy relationships and emotional intelligence.
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A.J.'s adventures, whether during the day or at night, highlight the importance of independence and self-confidence. Her ability to navigate challenges on her own fosters a sense of empowerment and self-reliance in young readers.
hey a.j. collection
fantastical
adventures
unlimited imagination
Why settle for the ordinary when your bookshelf could be bursting with extraordinary? Hey A.J.! is a ticket to wild Saturday breakfasts that defy gravity, bedtime adventures that outrun the clock, and toys that might just start running the show!
Packed with imagination, heart, and a dash of lovable chaos, these stories aren’t just for kids—they’re an invitation for families to dream, laugh, and embrace the magic in everyday life. Don’t wait for the adventure to come to you—grab your copy of Hey A.J.! and let the fun begin.
Adventure Awaits…
with love + imagination
-MR. TOMONOSHi!
lesson plans
Empower young minds to unlock their creativity and storytelling potential with our engaging lesson plans for character creation, back story writing, and creative writing. Designed for elementary students, these activities encourage imagination, critical thinking, and artistic expression while fostering essential writing skills. Perfect for classrooms or home use, the plans feature interactive exercises that guide students in creating original characters, crafting vivid narratives, exploring creative writing techniques, and illustrating their ideas.
Parents and teachers will love the way these lessons ignite curiosity and build confidence in young learners. With options for peer collaboration, family involvement, and artistic integration, these plans turn education into an exciting adventure that students will cherish.
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Objective: Students will use their imagination and creativity to write their own stories, inspired by the themes and characters in "Hey A.J., It's Saturday" and "Hey A.J., It's Bedtime."
Grade Level: Elementary (Grades 2-5)
Materials Needed:
Copies of "Hey A.J., It's Saturday" and "Hey A.J., It's Bedtime"
Writing paper or notebooks
Pencils, pens, and coloring materials
Chart paper and markers
Optional: Digital devices for typing stories
Lesson Duration: 2-3 class periods (45-60 minutes each)
Day 1: Introduction and Inspiration
1. Introduction (10 minutes)
Begin by reading aloud "Hey A.J., It's Saturday" and "Hey A.J., It's Bedtime" to the class.
Discuss the main character, AJ, and her imaginative adventures. Highlight the themes of creativity, independence, and problem-solving.
2. Character Selection (15 minutes)
Introduce the idea of writing a story about a character from the "Hey A.J." books.
Provide options for characters:
A.J.: The main character, full of imagination and creativity.
Stuffed Animals and Toys: A.J.'s toys that come to life in her imagination.
A.J.'s Parents: Their perspective on A.J.'s adventures or how they support her creativity.
New Character: A new toy, friend, or pet that interacts with A.J..
Allow students to choose a character they would like to write about. Use chart paper to list the chosen characters and any initial ideas students have.
3. Brainstorming Session (15 minutes)
Ask students to think about their chosen character's adventures. What kind of story would they like to tell? What challenges might the character face?
Use chart paper to jot down students' ideas and keywords. Encourage them to think about different settings, characters, and challenges.
4. Planning Their Stories (20 minutes)
Provide students with a story planning template. This can include sections for:
Title of their story
Main character(s)
Setting
Beginning, middle, and end of the story
Problem and solution
Allow students to start planning their stories, using the brainstorming ideas as inspiration.
Day 2: Writing and Illustrating
1. Writing the First Draft (30 minutes)
Have students begin writing the first draft of their stories. Encourage them to be as creative and descriptive as possible.
Remind them to include elements from their story plans and to think about how their characters will solve problems, just like A.J..
2. Peer Review and Feedback (15 minutes)
Pair students up to share their stories with a partner. Each student should give constructive feedback on their partner's story.
Encourage students to ask questions and suggest ideas to make the stories even more imaginative and engaging.
3. Revising and Editing (15 minutes)
Allow time for students to revise and edit their stories based on the feedback they received.
Emphasize the importance of checking for spelling, grammar, and clarity.
Day 3: Finalizing and Sharing
1. Illustrating Their Stories (20 minutes)
Provide students with coloring materials to illustrate their stories. They can draw scenes, characters, or any imaginative elements from their stories.
Encourage them to make their illustrations as vibrant and whimsical as the art in the "Hey A.J." books.
2. Final Draft (20 minutes)
Have students write or type the final draft of their stories, incorporating their illustrations.
Ensure they have a complete and polished story to share.
3. Story Sharing Session (20 minutes)
Create a "story circle" where students can share their completed stories with the class.
Celebrate each student's creativity and effort. Consider displaying the stories and illustrations in the classroom or creating a class book.
Extension Activities:
Creative Writing Journal: Encourage students to keep a journal where they can continue writing imaginative stories inspired by their daily experiences.
Art and Writing Integration: Combine art and writing by having students create comic strips or graphic novels based on their stories.
Family Involvement: Invite parents to a "story night" where students can read their stories aloud to their families.
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Objective: Students will use their imagination and creativity to create their own characters and write detailed back stories for them.
Grade Level: Elementary (Grades 2-5)
Materials Needed:
Writing paper or notebooks
Pencils, pens, and coloring materials
Chart paper and markers
Character creation templates
Optional: Digital devices for typing stories
Lesson Duration: 2-3 class periods (45-60 minutes each)
Day 1: Introduction and Character Creation
1. Introduction (10 minutes)
Begin by discussing the importance of characters in storytelling. Explain how characters drive the plot and engage readers.
Share examples of memorable characters from books, movies, or TV shows, including A.J. from the "Hey A.J." books.
2. Brainstorming Session (15 minutes)
Ask students to think about the type of character they would like to create. Encourage them to consider different traits, interests, and quirks.
Use chart paper to jot down students' ideas and keywords. Discuss what makes a character interesting and relatable.
3. Character Creation (20 minutes)
Provide students with character creation templates. This can include sections for:
Name
Age
Physical appearance
Personality traits
Interests and hobbies
Quirks and challenges
Relationships (family, friends, pets, etc.)
Allow students to start creating their characters, using the brainstorming ideas as inspiration.
4. Sharing Characters (10 minutes)
Have students share their character ideas with the class. Encourage them to explain why they chose certain traits and how they envision their character's adventures.
Day 2: Writing Back Stories
1. Introduction to Back Stories (10 minutes)
Explain what a back story is and why it is important for character development. Discuss how a character's past experiences shape their personality and actions.
Share examples of back stories from well-known characters.
2. Planning Back Stories (15 minutes)
Provide students with a back story planning template. This can include sections for:
Early life and family background
Significant events or experiences
Challenges and how they were overcome
Current goals and dreams
Allow students to start planning their character's back story, using the character creation template as a guide.
3. Writing the First Draft (20 minutes)
Have students begin writing the first draft of their character's back story. Encourage them to be detailed and descriptive, bringing their character to life through their writing.
Remind them to include elements from their story plans and to think about how their character's past experiences shape their present actions.
4. Peer Review and Feedback (15 minutes)
Pair students up to share their back stories with a partner. Each student should give constructive feedback on their partner's story.
Encourage students to ask questions and suggest ideas to make the back stories even more engaging and detailed.
Day 3: Finalizing and Sharing
1. Revising and Editing (20 minutes)
Allow time for students to revise and edit their back stories based on the feedback they received.
Emphasize the importance of checking for spelling, grammar, and clarity.
2. Illustrating Their Characters (20 minutes)
Provide students with coloring materials to illustrate their characters. They can draw scenes from their character's back story or create a character portrait.
Encourage them to make their illustrations as vibrant and detailed as possible.
3. Final Draft (10 minutes)
Have students write or type the final draft of their back stories, incorporating their illustrations.
Ensure they have a complete and polished story to share.
4. Story Sharing Session (10 minutes)
Create a "story circle" where students can share their completed back stories with the class.
Celebrate each student's creativity and effort. Consider displaying the stories and illustrations in the classroom or creating a class book.
Extension Activities:
Character Journals: Encourage students to keep a journal where they can continue developing their characters and writing new adventures.
Art and Writing Integration: Combine art and writing by having students create comic strips or graphic novels based on their characters' back stories.
Family Involvement: Invite parents to a "character night" where students can present their characters and back stories to their families.
This lesson plan aims to inspire students to use their imagination and creativity to create original characters and write detailed back stories, developing their writing and storytelling skills.
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Objective:
Create a collaborative story with your child, sparking their imagination, creativity, and communication skills while enjoying quality time together.Materials Needed:
Paper, notebooks, or a computer
Pens, pencils, and coloring supplies
Story prompts (optional)
A cozy, creative space
Steps to Guide Your Shared Storytelling Adventure:
Session 1: Begin the Journey
Set the Scene
Start by telling your child that you’re going to create a special story together—a tale that belongs to just the two of you!
Talk about how every great story starts with imagination and teamwork.Spark Ideas Together
Use fun prompts to get the ball rolling, like:“What if a magical creature lived in our backyard?”
“What would happen if our family woke up in a castle?”
Brainstorm together, jotting down ideas. Ask your child questions about what kind of characters, places, and adventures they’d like to include.
Start Building the Story
Create your main character—who are they? What makes them special?
Work together to decide where the story begins and what kind of adventure awaits.
Session 2: Bring the Story to Life
Write the Adventure
Sit together and start writing the story. Take turns—your child might write one sentence, and then you add the next!
Let your child’s imagination lead the way, and support them with fun suggestions when needed.Illustrate the Tale
Once the story starts coming together, grab some coloring supplies and illustrate!
Encourage your child to draw scenes, characters, or even the story’s cover.Celebrate Creativity
When the story is complete, read it aloud together as a “first audience.”
Cheer for the creativity and teamwork that went into making this unique tale.
Make It a Family Tradition
Share with Loved Ones: Read the story to other family members during a special “story time.”
Create a Storybook: Turn your story into a little book with illustrations and share copies with relatives.
Expand the World: Write sequels or spin-offs together. Let the magic of storytelling continue!
Coming Soon
to Disney Jr
and Disney+
I am thrilled to announce that "Hey A.J." is becoming an animated TV series on Disney Junior and Disney+! Set to premiere soon, this high-energy adventure comedy will bring A.J.'s imaginative world to life on screen.
The series follows the curious and extremely imaginative 7-year-old A.J. as she turns everyday situations into exciting adventures. Whether imagining a long car drive as an exciting rocket ride or turning a grocery store line into a dance party, A.J. uses her big imagination to make any situation more fun and exciting.
Explore the books and get to know A.J. before the series premieres. Each story is perfect for inspiring and empowering young readers to embrace their creativity and dreams. Stay tuned for more updates and get ready to join A.J. on her new adventures on Disney Junior and Disney+!
You can watch my original short films below.