Picture a retired Coast Guard officer spinning bedtime tales of heroic first responders for his sons—meet James Burd Brewster! This American children’s author turned his storytelling magic into the beloved 'Glad to do it!' series, celebrating firefighters, police officers, and EMTs with heartwarming, real-life-inspired stories that captivate young readers and honor everyday heroes.
Brewster’s journey from navigating icy Arctic waters to crafting picture books is as inspiring as his tales. With a knack for weaving service, courage, and kindness into every page, he’s become a cherished voice in children’s literature, inviting kids to dream big and value community.
The Making of James Burd Brewster
Born and raised in Albany, New York, James Burd Brewster grew up sailing on Lake Champlain, sparking a love for adventure that led him to the United States Coast Guard Academy. His 23-year Coast Guard career included navigating a polar icebreaker to the Arctic, a testament to his resilience and dedication. After retiring, he and his wife, Katie Spivey, settled in Pomfret, Maryland, where they homeschooled their five children. His father’s wisdom—'You can grow grass or children, but not both'—guided Brewster to prioritize family, planting the seeds for his storytelling.
Brewster’s writing began as bedtime stories for his sons, Ben and Luke, in the 1990s. These tales of 'Uncle Rocky, Fireman' evolved into a passion project when he and Katie took a creative writing class as empty-nesters in 2012. Encouraged by mentors like Professor Wayne Karlin, Brewster founded J2B Publishing to share his stories with the world.
James Burd Brewster’s Unforgettable Stories
Brewster’s 'Glad to do it!' series is the heart of his work, featuring characters like Uncle Rocky (a firefighter), Officers Jack and Kate (police partners), and EMT Morales. Each story, aimed at ages 3–7, draws from real emergency responses, celebrating first responders’ bravery and humility. The series’ signature line, 'Glad to do it!'—inspired by firefighters’ modesty—resonates with kids, who love shouting it alongside the characters.
Standout titles include 'Uncle Rocky – Fireman #10 – Ice Rescue,' where firefighters save a boy stranded on the Bronx River, and 'Officer Jack – Book 6 – Trusty Tinsley,' where a loyal dog leads police to its injured owner. Brewster’s 'Pete and Petey – Raising Kids' shifts gears, offering a playful look at family life through a father-son duo. His writing style is simple yet vivid, with diverse, kind-hearted characters and conflict-free narratives that emphasize service over sensationalism.
Brewster’s books, often illustrated by Mary Barrows, are lauded as 'Good Books for Young Boys and Girls.' They avoid bad behavior, focusing on positive role models. His commitment to honoring real first responders—crediting them in each book—adds authenticity and depth to his work.
Why James Burd Brewster Matters
Brewster’s impact lies in his ability to make first responders relatable heroes for young readers. His stories foster trust in community helpers, teaching kids about courage, kindness, and duty. Through J2B Publishing, he’s also paved the way for new children’s authors, amplifying fresh voices in the genre. Parents praise his books for their positive messaging, with reviews noting kids’ love for rereading favorites like 'Trusty Tinsley.'
As a grandfather of seven, Brewster’s legacy is personal too. His tales, born from love for his sons, now inspire his grandchildren and countless young readers. By blending real-world heroism with storytelling, he’s crafted a niche that’s both timeless and deeply meaningful.
- Birthplace: Albany, New York
- Key Works: 'Glad to do it!' series, 'Pete and Petey – Raising Kids'
- Notable Role: Founder of J2B Publishing
- Family: Married to Katie, father of five, grandfather of seven
Snag 'Uncle Rocky – Fireman #10 – Ice Rescue' and dive into James Burd Brewster’s heartwarming world of everyday heroes!