About Zobie’s Kids

Zobie’s Kids is an illustrated children’s book series for ages 6–8, created by author Barbara K. Cleary and brought to life through the artwork of Lidia Churakova. Through humor, friendship, and imaginative adventures, the stories invite children of all backgrounds and abilities to feel included and valued.

Inspired by her own experience raising a daughter with autism and other health needs, Barbara created Zobie’s Kids around a simple belief: “different” is not “less than.” That message guides the stories and resources she shares with children, families, educators, caregivers, and faith communities.

At the heart of the series are Maddie, a young story-maker, and Zobie, the lovable blue dragon with a big red heart she brings to life in a dream. Their friendship begins in The Dragon Who Learned How to Drive and continues in Reggie Gets His Christmas Wish, where Maddie imagines a holiday adventure to help a friend feel included. Alongside the books, free caregiver resources offer activities to share, adapt, and enjoy together.

Zobie’s Kids creator Barbara K. Cleary standing beside a life-size cutout of Zobie, the blue dragon with a red heart.

Creator Barbara K. Cleary

Barbara K. Cleary is the creator and author of Zobie’s Kids. Her experience raising an adopted daughter with autism and other health needs inspires her commitment to stories that help children feel valued just as they are.

An award-winning author and graduate of The City University of New York, Barbara has worked as a writer-in-residence for a large U.S. school district and as a radio program producer. She brings that experience to the Zobie’s Kids books and the development of new storytelling projects and caregiver resources.

Barbara also writes at attentionology.com and has been recognized as a National Top Ten Business Woman by the American Business Women’s Association.

Zobie’s Kids illustrator Lidia Churakova standing outdoors in front of shrubs with red fall leaves.

Illustrator Lidia Churakova

A graduate of North Carolina State University, with a BA in Art and Design, Lidia approaches projects with a desire to express the emotional narrative through color and light. 

Born in Moscow, she has brought her talent to the US and shares her creativity through illustration, painting and murals. “Every project has a unique journey,” she says. “My work with Barbara continues. There are more adventures to come, all to help children with special needs feel valued as they are. It is a poignant, timely theme.” Lidia lives in Johnston County, NC.