Enriching Education - Charms Book Series

 For decades, space was considered a man’s occupation. It wasn’t until the 1980s that the first woman was launched in space. Women are still far outnumbered in the space industry. Yet more and more women are entering this field. A recent survey showed that more young females than males want to enter a job in aeronautics. Why the change? 

I had a chance to learn more in this interview with Loxley Brown, author of Rocket City Love, who has a newly

released children’s book that encourages young girls to pursue their dreams and describes one young girls dream and desire to be an astronaut. 

Discover the Magic of the Charms Book Series by Loxley Browne

Tell us about your book.

The Charms Book Series is the ultimate teenage reading escape for a weekend brimming with excitement, inspiration, and a touch of magic! These novellas are crafted to whisk you away on Attie’s exhilarating adventures, setting the stage for a journey of discovery and self-growth.

But there’s more to these stories than just captivating tales. Each book in the series is designed with a dual purpose: to entertain and to educate. Embedded within the narrative are practical skills and insights that can help readers build their high school resumes and portfolios. Whether your aspirations lie in aerospace, automotive, or maritime industries, Attie’s adventures provide relatable lessons and inspiration to help readers learn traits to stand out to colleges and future employers.

At the heart of the series is Attie, a brilliant 15-year-old inventor. She’s leaving behind the comfort of her hometown, Creativity Cove, to dive into the dynamic and fast-paced world of Rocket City. As Attie navigates this bold new chapter, she faces challenges that test her ingenuity and resilience while uncovering hidden talents and strengths. Her journey is one of excitement, creativity, and self-discovery—with a sprinkle of magic to keep things extraordinary.

The Charms Book Series offers a unique and engaging experience for readers seeking a blend of entertainment and empowerment. Visit CharmsBookSeries.com to learn more about Attie’s world and access resources to enhance your own journey.

What led you to write it?

Knowing that there are so many young girls out there—I was one—who need a real-life role model, I felt compelled to write the Charms Book Series. Young girls need to see examples of individuals who stand firm in their values, make courageous choices, and do what is right—even when it’s not the easiest path. That’s the kind of inspiration I wanted to bring to life through Attie’s story.

I’m a combination of farm girl and city girl, and because of that, I’ve lived a life filled with adventure, culture, and unique experiences. These moments have helped me acquire incredible skills and shaped my perspective on life. My story is not one that fits neatly into a box; it’s more like a sprawling collection of scrapbooks filled with memories, lessons, and passions that don’t always fit into predefined categories. I believe it’s important for young girls to see that being multifaceted is a strength. If you pursue life with grace, manners, and charisma, you can accomplish great things that make a meaningful impact on the world.

I often describe myself as the anti-Kardashian—more like a female version of Mike Rowe. I believe in rolling up your sleeves, getting your hands dirty, and learning through doing. This approach helps you discover what truly excites you and, just as importantly, what doesn’t. That philosophy underpins the Charms Book Series: encouraging readers to embrace challenges, step outside their comfort zones, and forge their unique paths with courage and creativity.

What was the most challenging part in writing it?

One of the biggest challenges in writing the Charms Book Series was thinking back to what I needed as a tweenager and finding ways to provide those answers with a modern twist. I wanted to create stories that cut through today’s digital clutter and bring the focus back to timeless values like common sense and good manners—qualities that never go out of style.

Another challenge is weaving together all the topics I want to address into a cohesive series that can resonate for decades. Each book touches on trending issues today’s teenagers face, from self-discovery to societal pressures. My goal is to ensure that readers feel seen and supported. Sometimes, teenagers just need to know that there’s an adult out there who has their back—even if it’s through the pages of a story. It’s comforting to realize you’re not alone in facing a particular problem, and that’s a message I aim to deliver consistently throughout the series.

Balancing these important messages with engaging storytelling is another layer of complexity. I want the books to feel authentic, empowering, and entertaining—a combination that takes careful crafting. The reward, however, is knowing that the Charms Book Series can guide, encourage, and inspire readers navigating their own challenges.

What was the most rewarding?

The most rewarding part of writing the CHARMS book series has been the conversations I’ve had with teenagers in what I call the "secret sessions." These sessions are behind-the-scenes gatherings where I get real-time feedback from young readers on story ideas, plot twists, and character development. The members of the Secret Book Society—students who engage with CHARMS and Athenian through the Photo Hunt, social media, and book purchases—are truly passionate about being involved in the creative process. Seeing them contribute to a story that resonates with their lives, experiences, and challenges is incredibly fulfilling.

These sessions offer a unique opportunity to get valuable insights from the readers themselves, which helps guide the series' direction. The feedback shapes the narrative, showing me which elements need to be emphasized, which new characters should be introduced, and which issues need to be addressed. The Secret Book Society members' input is vital in ensuring the stories remain authentic and relevant to today’s young readers.

Additionally, the feedback I receive often inspires me to research certain topics more deeply, which in turn helps me select guest experts for our podcast and enriches the content we share. It’s a dynamic cycle of learning and creation.

But beyond all the creative collaboration, what’s most rewarding is knowing that the CHARMS series can offer young readers a sense of clarity, solidarity, and inspiration. By addressing their questions and struggles, the stories provide reassurance that they’re not alone. If even one teenager feels understood or finds the courage to face their own obstacles after reading, that’s the most fulfilling aspect of all. It’s an absolute privilege to offer a narrative that not only entertains but also empowers.

What factors contribute to the rise of girls interested in careers in aeronautics?

The rise of girls interested in careers in aeronautics can be attributed to the trailblazing efforts of Gen X women. These women paved the way by breaking into industries that had long been male-dominated. For context, young women graduating high school in the 1980s and 1990s were expected to enter career paths and contribute a second income to their families—a shift from previous generations. This change in expectations opened doors and laid the groundwork for today’s young girls to aspire to even greater heights.

Representation plays a critical role. Seeing women excel as aerospace engineers, mechanics, and fighter pilots (who also just happen to be Miss America) has shattered stereotypes and shown young girls what’s possible. These visible role models inspire confidence and ambition, encouraging girls to pursue careers in fields like aeronautics that were previously out of reach. It’s a thrilling time to witness this transformation and to support these aspiring leaders as they reach for the skies.

Why is it important to invest in aviation and aeronautics knowledge as we continue the space race?

Investing in aviation and aeronautics knowledge is vital as we continue the space race, especially when considering that half of the world’s population is female. Yet, this representation is far from mirrored in the workforce. It is crucial for parents, companies, and leaders to recognize the immense brainpower and potential being overlooked when women aren’t given opportunities to excel in these highly skilled, high-income positions.

Achieving an inclusive workforce requires a mindset shift across generations—from Baby Boomers to Gen Xers to Millennials. Creating spaces where women are equally encouraged and supported in traditionally male-dominated roles, like aeronautics, is essential. I've seen the challenges firsthand as a woman who has always worked in male-dominated industries. Ironically, some of the greatest barriers to progress have been from other women who perpetuate outdated norms.

Breaking these cycles and investing in the next generation’s education will unlock untapped potential and drive innovation. Encouraging girls to pursue careers in aviation and aeronautics doesn’t just diversify the workforce; it strengthens the industry and propels humanity forward toward greater achievements in exploration and technology.

What are some ways that families can encourage an interest in STEM, especially space-related fields?

I always say, "Get your hands dirty!" Encouraging hands-on exploration is one of the best ways to spark curiosity and passion for STEM. Many parents tell me their daughters want to be inventors or engineers, and my advice is simple—start small and local. Visit a thrift store and let her pick out an appliance to tinker with. Buy something she can take apart and put back together. The act of exploring how things work builds confidence and curiosity.

Additionally, encourage trying everything and anything. Keeping an open mind and saying “yes” to opportunities is essential. You never know what you’ll love—or dislike—until you give it a try. Personally, I’ve amassed a wide range of skills and experiences by embracing diverse opportunities: working as a production assistant for a friend filming for HGTV, photographing events, helping swap car engines, assisting with airplane maintenance, volunteering as a master gardener, and even building a website for a monastery in Nepal. Each of these experiences has contributed to my growth and understanding of the world.

Parents can also tap into community resources like our online training at Be Athenian.org or maker spaces, and museums. These environments foster creativity and connect kids with mentors and peers who share their interests. Finally, introduce them to stories and role models—whether through books like the Charms Book Series or documentaries about pioneers in STEM fields. Showing them what’s possible is a powerful motivator.

How can families use books to encourage their children to consider careers they may not otherwise have thought of?

For me, the best part of writing this book series is the exploration that goes into it. Years ago, I boldly set out on a two-year, around-the-world trip, immersing myself in different cultures and broadening my perspective. Now, I channel those exploration skills into researching diverse career paths and weaving them into stories in meaningful ways.

Books have a unique ability to ignite curiosity and open doors to new possibilities. Through engaging narratives, families can introduce their children to unfamiliar professions and the inspiring individuals who excel in them. The Charms Book Series does just that by showcasing a wide range of careers and the exciting challenges that come with them.

I’m also excited to announce the launch of my new podcast series on Valentine’s Day. This podcast will delve into the character research I do for the books, offering listeners of all ages a glimpse into various career paths. It’s a fun and accessible way to learn about professions they might not have considered before. By combining the power of storytelling with real-world insights, families can spark meaningful conversations and help their children envision a future filled with limitless possibilities.

Did you ever want a career in aviation/aeronautics?

When I was a teenager, I was certain that I wanted to design things—everything, really. I’ve been fortunate to have had the opportunity to create numerous designs and lead groundbreaking innovations in various industries. What I didn’t realize at the time, though, was that I could apply that passion to designing things like automobiles, airplanes, and boats—things that I absolutely love. Looking back, I see now that what I’m doing today directly reflects that young dreamer inside me, the one who knew what she wanted but lacked the resources, guidance, and clarity to chart the right path.

A big part of what I’m doing with CHARMS and our work at Athenian is driven by a desire to help teenagers find their true calling at an early age. I want to empower them to discover their skills and strengths so they can make informed decisions about their careers long before they feel pressured to pursue something that might not align with their true passions. By helping young people understand their unique abilities, we can guide them toward the right training, the right degree, and, ultimately, the right career path—one that isn’t influenced by external expectations but is authentic to who they are.

Through the CHARMS book series, we aim to show young readers how following their dreams, no matter where they lead, can open up a world of possibilities. It's about helping them find their direction early on so they don't waste decades of their lives following someone else’s vision instead of their own.

What words of advice would you leave for young girls in pursuing their dreams?

My biggest piece of advice is to dive in and get your hands dirty. Don't shy away from learning new skills, even the ones that might seem irrelevant at first or make you wonder why you're putting in the effort. Trust me—there will come a time in the future when that seemingly random skill will make all the difference. The key is to never stop learning. Every experience, every lesson, no matter how small it may seem, builds up and shapes who you are and what you're capable of.

So, take risks, make mistakes, and embrace the learning process. The more you learn, the more empowered you become. Keep growing, keep evolving, and remember: there’s no limit to what you can achieve when you’re always striving to be better, smarter, and stronger than you were yesterday.

What is next for you and the CHARMS book series?

2025 is shaping up to be an exciting and busy year for both Attie and her favorite Auntie Loxley! We're thrilled to introduce six more books in the CHARMS series starting in March. Each book will take readers deeper into Attie’s world as she navigates new adventures and learns more about herself and the world around her.

In addition to the new releases, we're introducing the CHARMS Photo Hunt—a fun, interactive monthly challenge where readers can get involved by sharing photos related to the themes of STREAM (Science, Technology, Research, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) and the books. It's an excellent way for our readers to express what they love about CHARMS and the subjects that inspire them. Personally, I’m torn between Technology, Research, Engineering, and Art, so I can’t wait to see which subject leads the way! Each month, I’ll randomly select a winner who will receive a special t-shirt and an autographed book.

And don’t forget—Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, so download the printable STEMmy Valentine’s Day cards from our website. They’re a fun way to spread the love for STEM and share the CHARMS spirit with your friends!

Lastly, I’m excited to announce that I’ll be at the Sun 'n Fun Air Expo in Lakeland, Florida, with AviNation Magazine during the first week of April. I would love to meet anyone attending Sun ‘n Fun and chat about how Attie can help guide them toward finding their career path. If you’re at the event, find me—it will be a fantastic opportunity to connect, share ideas, and inspire the next generation of dreamers and doers.

Buy the Book | Download the Monthly Giveaway | Join the Monthly Photo Hunt

The CHARMS Book Series offers a captivating and inspiring experience for readers looking for entertainment and empowerment. Dive into Attie’s world of adventure, self-discovery, and problem-solving. To deepen your connection with the series, download the monthly giveaway, participate in the Photo Hunt, and explore interactive resources designed to support your journey. Visit CharmsBookSeries.com to learn more, buy the book, and become part of our growing community. Join today and take the first step toward discovering what makes you uniquely capable of achieving your dreams!