As we continue to live in an interconnected global economy, the competition is not just local – it’s international. Our children are now competing against students from all over the world, particularly in critical fields like STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math). Yet, when we look at global rankings, it's evident that many of our children are lagging behind in STEM education, putting them at a disadvantage in a future where these skills are vital.
I had a chance to interview Loxley Browne, the renowned author of the CHARMS book series, which focuses on fostering critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills in young minds. As an expert on nurturing talent and fostering academic excellence, Browne offers valuable insights and practical tips for parents, educators, and communities to bridge the gap and empower children to excel in a globalized world.
Tell us more about the Charms Series.
If you poke around CharmsBookSeries.com, you’ll notice one word that pops up again and again: charm. But we’re not talking about tiaras and tea parties (though I love those too). Charm, in this world, is a skill—one you grow over time. It’s how you carry yourself when life tosses you a curveball. It’s how you make others feel seen, valued, and included. In short? It’s a superpower.
The Charms Book Series is all about helping young girls discover and develop their own version of that superpower. These aren’t just stories—they’re full of real-life situations inspired by the amazing girls I know. And as we build out the Secret Book Society (yes, there’s a secret club!), I’ll be talking with even more girls and weaving their ideas right into future books.
These books are for every curious, adventure-loving girl who’s dreaming about her future—maybe as a pilot, an artist, an inventor, or something the world hasn’t even seen yet. Think of it like handing your daughter a journal, a story, and a best friend, all in one. Each book invites her to reflect, doodle, imagine, and plan—giving her something she can look back on as she grows up and starts chasing those big dreams.
Tell us about your upcoming second book in the series.
Buckle up, because Tick Tock, Take Charge! kicks the Charms Book Series into high gear! This is where the real mystery begins.
Our fearless teen inventor, Attie McAllister, isn’t exactly the “sit still and stay safe” type. With a NASA-scientist mom training for a mission to the International Space Station, an FBI-agent dad heading off on a covert mission in Europe, and her wildly curious Aunt Loxley chasing clues through forgotten history, Attie’s world moves at warp speed.
But when she discovers a faded photograph of six students from Carnegie Mellon—known only as The Six—everything changes. Suddenly, she’s juggling an invention (hello, solar-powered e-bike), her best friend’s exploding YouTube channel, and a new obsession with project management (because even chaos needs a checklist). And just like that, she’s knee-deep in a mystery that stretches back decades.
With clues popping up in the most unexpected places and danger brewing behind the scenes, Attie and her best friend Jenny must race to connect the dots before someone silences the truth… again.
Tick Tock, Take Charge! is just the beginning—the mystery will unfold across the next five books. It’s a fast-paced, clue-hunting, brain-boosting adventure that keeps readers thinking, dreaming, and asking, “What would I do if I had to save the day?”
How can parents and educators boost STEAM skills from an early age?
The first step? Toss out the old playbook—and any leftover biases that say only boys like to tinker, build, or get their hands dirty. The truth is, there are plenty of little girls out there who light up at the idea of a messy project, a cool invention, or solving a real-world problem. We just need to give them the tools—and the permission—to explore.
That’s exactly what the Charms Book Series is about. It’s my way of showing parents, teachers, and girls themselves that STEAM (science, tech, engineering, art, and math) isn’t just cool—it’s fun, and it’s for everyone.
As Einstein said, “Imagination is more important than knowledge. Knowledge is limited. Imagination encircles the world.” And I’ve found that the kids with big imaginations? They’re the ones who ask the best questions, dream the boldest ideas, and have the most fun doing it.
Here’s a stat to chew on: 65% of the jobs our kindergartners will have someday haven’t even been invented yet. So how do we prepare them for a future we can’t fully predict? We teach them how to learn, how to adapt, how to think creatively. Through Attie’s story in the Charms Series, I sneak in real-world skill sets—project management, communication, design thinking, and more—so readers begin to see how those tools work in real life.
And finally? Let’s remember: no one becomes an expert overnight. In a world where everything’s on-demand, it’s so important to teach our kids (and remind ourselves!) that skills take time. Progress comes from practice, patience, and the freedom to fail and try again. That’s where the magic happens.
Why are critical thinking and creativity important skills to develop? How do your books help?
Critical thinking and creativity are two of the most powerful tools our kids can have in their back pocket. Why? Because in a world that’s changing fast, we don’t just need rule-followers—we need problem-solvers, inventors, and brave thinkers who can look at a challenge and say, “Okay… what if?”
That’s why each book in the Charms Book Series spotlights a specific life skill and threads it through the storyline in a way that feels natural, exciting, and hands-on. These aren’t just characters solving fictional mysteries—Attie and her friends are doing research, practicing, collaborating, and figuring out real-world solutions using the same skills we want our kids to build.
Take Book Two, Tick Tock, Take Charge! for example—the spotlight skill is time management. Sounds simple, but it’s a game-changer. And to help kids take it from fiction to real life, I create a monthly downloadable activity that complements the book. This month? A super-fun, easy-to-follow time-blocking worksheet that helps kids start planning their days like pros. (Spoiler: I wouldn’t be surprised if a few grown-ups grabbed it for themselves.)
For families in our Secret Book Society, there are even more exclusive downloads designed to build on the book’s lessons—so the reading experience turns into a learning adventure, and the learning sticks.
In the end, it’s about helping kids see that creativity and critical thinking aren’t just school subjects—they’re life skills.And with a little inspiration and the right tools, they’re skills every child can grow.
Your books help inspire readers while taking them on fun adventures. Why is that so critical in Young Adult books?
Think of the Charms Book Series like Who Moved My Cheese?—but for teenagers. It’s more than just a story; it’s a roadmap. Teens learn best when they feel connected, and what better way to do that than through an adventure where they can see themselves in the main character’s shoes?
Attie isn’t some untouchable superhero. She’s smart, curious, flawed, and totally relatable. As she solves mysteries, builds inventions, and navigates big emotions, readers are right there with her—learning, growing, and dreaming alongside her. That’s the magic of storytelling.
I believe it’s so important that YA books reflect real life. Not just the drama, but the possibility. When we weave adventure and personal growth into a relevant, modern-day world, teens walk away not only entertained, but inspired. They start to see that they, too, can take charge, make an impact, and chase big dreams—even when life gets complicated.
And let’s be honest—learning through adventure is way more fun than reading a textbook.
How do you come up with your story ideas?
The stories in the Charms Book Series are part biography, part fiction—and I’ll let readers guess which is which! I love blending real moments from my own life with a healthy dose of imagination. Whether it’s a wild adventure, an awkward teenage memory, or a skill I’ve picked up along the way, it all finds a home in the story.
Attie’s world may be filled with inventions, mysteries, and secret societies—but so much of it is rooted in real experiences and real emotions. That’s what makes it fun to write and (hopefully!) even more fun to read. So yes, while the gadgets and plot twists might be made up… the heart of it? That’s 100% real.
Tell us more about the Charms Series.
If you poke around CharmsBookSeries.com, you’ll notice one word that pops up again and again: charm. But we’re not talking about tiaras and tea parties (though I love those too). Charm, in this world, is a skill—one you grow over time. It’s how you carry yourself when life tosses you a curveball. It’s how you make others feel seen, valued, and included. In short? It’s a superpower.
The Charms Book Series is all about helping young girls discover and develop their own version of that superpower. These aren’t just stories—they’re full of real-life situations inspired by the amazing girls I know. And as we build out the Secret Book Society (yes, there’s a secret club!), I’ll be talking with even more girls and weaving their ideas right into future books.
These books are for every curious, adventure-loving girl who’s dreaming about her future—maybe as a pilot, an artist, an inventor, or something the world hasn’t even seen yet. Think of it like handing your daughter a journal, a story, and a best friend, all in one. Each book invites her to reflect, doodle, imagine, and plan—giving her something she can look back on as she grows up and starts chasing those big dreams.
Tell us about your upcoming second book in the series.
Buckle up, because Tick Tock, Take Charge! kicks the Charms Book Series into high gear! This is where the real mystery begins.
Our fearless teen inventor, Attie McAllister, isn’t exactly the “sit still and stay safe” type. With a NASA-scientist mom training for a mission to the International Space Station, an FBI-agent dad heading off on a covert mission in Europe, and her wildly curious Aunt Loxley chasing clues through forgotten history, Attie’s world moves at warp speed.
But when she discovers a faded photograph of six students from Carnegie Mellon—known only as The Six—everything changes. Suddenly, she’s juggling an invention (hello, solar-powered e-bike), her best friend’s exploding YouTube channel, and a new obsession with project management (because even chaos needs a checklist). And just like that, she’s knee-deep in a mystery that stretches back decades.
With clues popping up in the most unexpected places and danger brewing behind the scenes, Attie and her best friend Jenny must race to connect the dots before someone silences the truth… again.
Tick Tock, Take Charge! is just the beginning—the mystery will unfold across the next five books. It’s a fast-paced, clue-hunting, brain-boosting adventure that keeps readers thinking, dreaming, and asking, “What would I do if I had to save the day?”
How can parents and educators boost STEAM skills from an early age?
The first step? Toss out the old playbook—and any leftover biases that say only boys like to tinker, build, or get their hands dirty. The truth is, there are plenty of little girls out there who light up at the idea of a messy project, a cool invention, or solving a real-world problem. We just need to give them the tools—and the permission—to explore.
That’s exactly what the Charms Book Series is about. It’s my way of showing parents, teachers, and girls themselves that STEAM (science, tech, engineering, art, and math) isn’t just cool—it’s fun, and it’s for everyone.
As Einstein said, “Imagination is more important than knowledge. Knowledge is limited. Imagination encircles the world.” And I’ve found that the kids with big imaginations? They’re the ones who ask the best questions, dream the boldest ideas, and have the most fun doing it.
Here’s a stat to chew on: 65% of the jobs our kindergartners will have someday haven’t even been invented yet. So how do we prepare them for a future we can’t fully predict? We teach them how to learn, how to adapt, how to think creatively. Through Attie’s story in the Charms Series, I sneak in real-world skill sets—project management, communication, design thinking, and more—so readers begin to see how those tools work in real life.
And finally? Let’s remember: no one becomes an expert overnight. In a world where everything’s on-demand, it’s so important to teach our kids (and remind ourselves!) that skills take time. Progress comes from practice, patience, and the freedom to fail and try again. That’s where the magic happens.
Why are critical thinking and creativity important skills to develop? How do your books help?
Critical thinking and creativity are two of the most powerful tools our kids can have in their back pocket. Why? Because in a world that’s changing fast, we don’t just need rule-followers—we need problem-solvers, inventors, and brave thinkers who can look at a challenge and say, “Okay… what if?”
That’s why each book in the Charms Book Series spotlights a specific life skill and threads it through the storyline in a way that feels natural, exciting, and hands-on. These aren’t just characters solving fictional mysteries—Attie and her friends are doing research, practicing, collaborating, and figuring out real-world solutions using the same skills we want our kids to build.
Take Book Two, Tick Tock, Take Charge! for example—the spotlight skill is time management. Sounds simple, but it’s a game-changer. And to help kids take it from fiction to real life, I create a monthly downloadable activity that complements the book. This month? A super-fun, easy-to-follow time-blocking worksheet that helps kids start planning their days like pros. (Spoiler: I wouldn’t be surprised if a few grown-ups grabbed it for themselves.)
For families in our Secret Book Society, there are even more exclusive downloads designed to build on the book’s lessons—so the reading experience turns into a learning adventure, and the learning sticks.
In the end, it’s about helping kids see that creativity and critical thinking aren’t just school subjects—they’re life skills.And with a little inspiration and the right tools, they’re skills every child can grow.
Your books help inspire readers while taking them on fun adventures. Why is that so critical in Young Adult books?
Think of the Charms Book Series like Who Moved My Cheese?—but for teenagers. It’s more than just a story; it’s a roadmap. Teens learn best when they feel connected, and what better way to do that than through an adventure where they can see themselves in the main character’s shoes?
Attie isn’t some untouchable superhero. She’s smart, curious, flawed, and totally relatable. As she solves mysteries, builds inventions, and navigates big emotions, readers are right there with her—learning, growing, and dreaming alongside her. That’s the magic of storytelling.
I believe it’s so important that YA books reflect real life. Not just the drama, but the possibility. When we weave adventure and personal growth into a relevant, modern-day world, teens walk away not only entertained, but inspired. They start to see that they, too, can take charge, make an impact, and chase big dreams—even when life gets complicated.
And let’s be honest—learning through adventure is way more fun than reading a textbook.
How do you come up with your story ideas?
The stories in the Charms Book Series are part biography, part fiction—and I’ll let readers guess which is which! I love blending real moments from my own life with a healthy dose of imagination. Whether it’s a wild adventure, an awkward teenage memory, or a skill I’ve picked up along the way, it all finds a home in the story.
Attie’s world may be filled with inventions, mysteries, and secret societies—but so much of it is rooted in real experiences and real emotions. That’s what makes it fun to write and (hopefully!) even more fun to read. So yes, while the gadgets and plot twists might be made up… the heart of it? That’s 100% real.
Is Aunt Loxley based on you?
Oh, absolutely. I am the real-life Aunt Loxley—and anyone who’s known me for more than five minutes (especially my longtime friends) will tell you the whole Charms Book Series feels a little bit autobiographical. Guilty as charged!
But here’s the thing: I think it’s so important for kids to see adults who walk the walk. Someone who not only believes in them but shows up, listens, and helps them navigate the messy, exciting, and sometimes overwhelming parts of life. That’s what Aunt Loxley does for Attie—and it’s what I’ve tried to do in real life through my work with Athenian over the past five years.
Some of my favorite moments are when I get texts from former students—now in college—telling me that the skills we practiced together are helping them in real-world ways. That’s the heart of it. Aunt Loxley isn’t just a character… she’s the adult I hope every kid gets to have in their life. And the one I’m proud to be for mine.
Are other characters inspired by real people?
Absolutely! In fact, Book Two introduces a brand-new character who’s inspired by one of my favorite young ladies—Makayla Galler. I’ve known her for five years, and the energy, heart, and brilliance she brings to the world made her a perfect muse for the story.
And I’ll be honest—I’ve warned a few of my friends that they might just spot a familiar personality or two in the pages. It’s always fun to see their faces when they recognize a character who sounds just a little too familiar. I never name names, of course… but they usually figure it out pretty quickly. That’s part of the magic—bringing in bits of real life to create a world that feels authentic, personal, and full of heart.
What words of advice would you give to a young girl wanting to pursue a career in STREAM?
(That’s Science, Technology, Research, Engineering, Arts, and Math!)
My best advice? Try everything. Right now, while you’re a teen, you’ve got something incredibly powerful on your side—time. This is your season of curiosity, and you’ve got the freedom (and support!) to explore it all.
Dig into coding, build an engine, take apart a toaster, write a story, paint a mural, go on a discovery flight, design a website—whatever sparks your interest. You’re not expected to know your path yet. In fact, this is the exact time to stumble a little, to fail forward, and to figure out what truly lights you up—and what doesn’t.
When you get to that next level after high school—college, trade school, apprenticeships, or wherever your journey takes you—that’s when you’ll really hone in on what you love and start becoming an expert in it. That’s when the magic happens. But that magic only comes from trying all the things first.
So be bold. Be messy. Be curious. And know that every single experiment—successful or not—is bringing you closer to the life you’re meant to build.
About Loxley Browne
Loxley Browne is a designer, entrepreneur, and world traveler whose fearless approach to life has taken her from photography and construction to automotive and aviation. As the founder of Athenian and author of the Charms Book Series, she connects students with STEM industry leaders—from racecars to rockets—fueling the next generation of innovators. After all, who better to shape the future than those who dare to create it?
With a career spanning architecture, consumer products, and startups, Loxley thrives in male-dominated industries, always asking, "How do we make it happen?" Her passion for adventure and problem-solving has taken her around the globe, proving that with curiosity, resilience, and bold determination, anything is possible.
Website: BeAthenian.org
Socials: @BeAthenian
Website: CharmsBookSeries.com
Socials: @CharmsBookSeries
Oh, absolutely. I am the real-life Aunt Loxley—and anyone who’s known me for more than five minutes (especially my longtime friends) will tell you the whole Charms Book Series feels a little bit autobiographical. Guilty as charged!
But here’s the thing: I think it’s so important for kids to see adults who walk the walk. Someone who not only believes in them but shows up, listens, and helps them navigate the messy, exciting, and sometimes overwhelming parts of life. That’s what Aunt Loxley does for Attie—and it’s what I’ve tried to do in real life through my work with Athenian over the past five years.
Some of my favorite moments are when I get texts from former students—now in college—telling me that the skills we practiced together are helping them in real-world ways. That’s the heart of it. Aunt Loxley isn’t just a character… she’s the adult I hope every kid gets to have in their life. And the one I’m proud to be for mine.
Are other characters inspired by real people?
Absolutely! In fact, Book Two introduces a brand-new character who’s inspired by one of my favorite young ladies—Makayla Galler. I’ve known her for five years, and the energy, heart, and brilliance she brings to the world made her a perfect muse for the story.
And I’ll be honest—I’ve warned a few of my friends that they might just spot a familiar personality or two in the pages. It’s always fun to see their faces when they recognize a character who sounds just a little too familiar. I never name names, of course… but they usually figure it out pretty quickly. That’s part of the magic—bringing in bits of real life to create a world that feels authentic, personal, and full of heart.
What words of advice would you give to a young girl wanting to pursue a career in STREAM?
(That’s Science, Technology, Research, Engineering, Arts, and Math!)
My best advice? Try everything. Right now, while you’re a teen, you’ve got something incredibly powerful on your side—time. This is your season of curiosity, and you’ve got the freedom (and support!) to explore it all.
Dig into coding, build an engine, take apart a toaster, write a story, paint a mural, go on a discovery flight, design a website—whatever sparks your interest. You’re not expected to know your path yet. In fact, this is the exact time to stumble a little, to fail forward, and to figure out what truly lights you up—and what doesn’t.
When you get to that next level after high school—college, trade school, apprenticeships, or wherever your journey takes you—that’s when you’ll really hone in on what you love and start becoming an expert in it. That’s when the magic happens. But that magic only comes from trying all the things first.
So be bold. Be messy. Be curious. And know that every single experiment—successful or not—is bringing you closer to the life you’re meant to build.
About Loxley Browne
Loxley Browne is a designer, entrepreneur, and world traveler whose fearless approach to life has taken her from photography and construction to automotive and aviation. As the founder of Athenian and author of the Charms Book Series, she connects students with STEM industry leaders—from racecars to rockets—fueling the next generation of innovators. After all, who better to shape the future than those who dare to create it?
With a career spanning architecture, consumer products, and startups, Loxley thrives in male-dominated industries, always asking, "How do we make it happen?" Her passion for adventure and problem-solving has taken her around the globe, proving that with curiosity, resilience, and bold determination, anything is possible.
Website: BeAthenian.org
Socials: @BeAthenian
Website: CharmsBookSeries.com
Socials: @CharmsBookSeries
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