Behind the Highway Adventure
Jennie Simpson – Author
Hi there, I’m Jennie! Welcome to our road trip community. As a writer and creator, my passion is turning the open highway into an interactive learning roadmap for curious young minds. The inspiration behind the Tom and Allister series comes directly from my own life on the open road. For years, I drove a semi-truck across all 48 contiguous states, as well as Ontario and Quebec, Canada. Sitting behind the wheel of a big rig, I saw firsthand how critical it is to teach the next generation about road safety and how to safely share the road with big trucks. My co-pilot on those long cross-country hauls was my beloved companion, Kittie—the real-life inspiration behind our favorite talking tuxedo cat, Allister! The incredible adventures we shared, combined with my mission to make roadside learning fun, inspired me to build an educational journey that spans across all 50 states. Today, I am still proudly rooted in the trucking community, working full-time as a compliance officer for a family-owned business with 18 drivers. On evenings and weekends, I pour my heart into crafting new interactive storybooks, coloring companions, and travel passports. Thank you for riding along with us on this amazing highway adventure!
Pauline – Proofreader, Editor
Pauline and Jennie first crossed paths out on the open highway while working for the same transport company. A masterful guide, Pauline helped Jennie navigate the transition to electronic logging devices (ELDs). With Pauline originally hailing from England and Jennie from Australia, the two instantly bonded over their shared international backgrounds, quickly turning professional compliance teamwork into a lifelong friendship. Today, Pauline brings that same sharp eye for detail to the Tom and Allister series as a trusted proofreader and editor.
Harriett – Proofreader, Editor
Harriett and Jennie teamed up out on the road when Harriett was coordinating freight logistics for their transport company. As Harriett mapped out shipments, Jennie rolled out to deliver them, creating an instant professional bond that quickly blossomed into a deep personal connection. Over the years, Harriett and her husband opened their home to Jennie whenever her haul routes brought her through their neck of the woods. From highway logistics to lifelong best friends, Harriett now brings her sharp organizational talents to the Tom and Allister series as an indispensable proofreader and editor.