Mike Gammage’s Vision for Children’s Career Exploration
Mike Gammage, children’s book author, blends career exploration with engaging storytelling, encouraging children to dream big and explore various professions.
Mike Gammage is a dynamic individual whose professional journey spans across multiple industries, with notable expertise as a Certified Dental Assistant and Specialist at LabCorp. Beyond his career, Mike is a committed family man who strives to balance work with quality time spent with his loved ones. His passion for making a difference extends to his new venture as a children’s book author. Through his brand, Mike Writes for Kids, he creates engaging and meaningful stories that encourage children to explore their dreams and understand the importance of community roles. His debut book, The Dreamlighters Go to Space, is just the beginning of an exciting series designed to inspire the next generation to think big and embrace their potential. In this interview, we delve into Mike’s journey, his vision for children’s literature, and the impact he hopes to make with his unique approach to career-focused storytelling.
A visionary author whose books spark curiosity and inspire children to explore their potential.
What inspired you to create The Little Careers Universe, and how has it evolved since its inception?
I was inspired to create The Little Careers Universe to introduce young children to various career paths in a way that is fun, engaging, and aspirational. I wanted to plant the seeds of possibility early on, helping kids see themselves in roles they may not have otherwise imagined. Since its inception, the project has grown beyond just books—expanding into workshops, educational resources, and interactive content that encourages career exploration at an early age.
“I wanted to plant the seeds of possibility early on, helping kids see themselves in roles they may not have otherwise imagined.” – Mike Gammage
What challenges did you face while writing a career-focused children’s book, and how did you overcome them?
One of the biggest challenges was our initial funding. Building a book business can be very expensive, particularly if you are a children’s book publisher because of the illustrations, so we found a way to utilize the Kickstarter platform to crowdfund the full process for our first book. The campaign was so successful that we raised over a thousand dollars in excess of our $5000 goal in less than two weeks! You can check out the full story on kickstarter.com, keyword search Dreamlighters.
How do you approach the process of making complex careers accessible and engaging for young readers?
I use a mix of storytelling, visual elements, and real-world applications to make careers feel exciting rather than overwhelming. Each book in The Little Careers Universe introduces career concepts through characters that children can relate to, incorporating problem-solving and adventure to spark their interest. I also focus on interactive elements, such as discussion prompts and hands-on activities, to reinforce learning.
What feedback have you received from children, parents, and educators about The Dreamlighters series?
The response has been overwhelmingly positive. Parents appreciate how the books introduce career ideas in a way that feels natural and inspiring, and educators love that they can use them as conversation starters in the classroom. Kids have responded with excitement, often sharing which career they want to explore after reading. Seeing children light up with curiosity is the most rewarding feedback of all.
Can you tell us more about your vision for integrating Web3 technology into children’s literature and education?
I see Web3 as an opportunity to create more interactive and immersive learning experiences. By incorporating blockchain-based storytelling, digital collectibles, and decentralized learning tools, we can offer children unique ways to engage with career education beyond traditional books. The goal is to create a dynamic ecosystem where kids can explore careers through gamified experiences, virtual mentorship, and educational incentives.
How do you balance your professional commitments with your passion for writing and coaching?
It’s all about prioritization and time management. I dedicate focused time to writing and business development while ensuring I maintain a healthy balance with my other responsibilities. Passion fuels consistency, so I set clear goals and surround myself with the right support system to keep moving forward.
What advice would you give to other authors who are trying to make an impact through educational children’s books?
Stay true to your mission and always put the child’s learning experience first. Make your content engaging, relatable, and actionable—something that sparks curiosity and invites conversation. Don’t be afraid to innovate and find unique ways to present your ideas. Also, connect with educators, parents, and industry professionals who can help amplify your message and make a real impact.
