It’s not completely out of the ordinary for adults to switch gears and start a new career. Many times they find success in a hobby.
Metropolis resident Jennifer Travis is no exception. In fact, she is the epitome of the career switch after becoming a mom, staying at home during COVID, and being diagnosed with fibromyalgia. With a trifecta of reasons to take the leap at self-publishing, she’s already finding fame in niche markets.
“I always drew. I always made up stories for my kids. So, why not?” Travis asked rhetorically. She wasn’t always an author. She’s a trained X-ray technician and worked in the hospital setting for several years. After staying home to raise three children and even homeschooling for a short time, she started a design business on Etsy in 2018. Then came her diagnosis of fibromyalgia. Even if she wanted to go back to work in a hospital she really couldn’t.
“I was offered a couple of work from home jobs, but they required sitting in front of a computer for hours every day for weeks in training. I just couldn’t physically do that,” said Travis.
She continued to refine her work with her mother’s business selling t-shirts and tumblers. She even gained “Star Seller” status with her Etsy store. “Back in September, I took the publishing leap! I didn’t feel like I was starting from scratch because I have so much experience selling my designs.”
In September, her first prayer journal “Pages of Inspiration” was approved for sale on Amazon. Another followed, without the flowers so men would be more comfortable using it during a church service. Then came a coloring book about the 80s then another about the 90s. This is where her niche fame started as these coloring books have sold in several countries and have been featured on national podcasts about 80s and 90s culture.
Her latest book was just approved for sale. It’s titled The Fluffy Flamingo. “This is so much more rewarding [than selling digital] because I get to see it and hold it,” said Travis. “It makes a perfect gift just in time for Christmas!” She’s not finished. The Fluffy Flamingo is just the first of her books for kids. Next up, Buddy the Big Eared Puppy.
Find her books here.
And other designs here.
