
Diane Alber is a bestselling children’s author and illustrator who creates books that combine creativity, emotional learning, and real-world kid challenges. She earned her degree in Fine Arts from Arizona State University and has spent over a decade developing books used by families and educators around the world.
She is best known for her A Little SPOT series, which helps children understand and manage their emotions through simple, relatable storytelling. She expanded beyond picture books to include learning tools, such as plush characters, games, slime, activities, and classroom resources.
Diane also co-created Key Chapter Books after discovering how difficult traditional chapter books could feel for young readers, especially those who struggle with focus or reading confidence. Designed alongside her son, this format features shorter chapters, extra spacing, and engaging illustrations to help kids build momentum and feel successful. The series focuses on high-interest stories that keep kids turning pages while quietly strengthening their reading skills.
Through all of her work, Diane’s mission is to make reading feel doable, enjoyable, and empowering for every child.

People ask me all the time how I came up with the idea for the SPOT series, so I thought it would be a good idea to do a video explaining how these spots came to be!
