The Sweet Snack Swindle started as a class assignment, but after heartfelt encouragement from my professor—who praised its message about honesty, friendship, and doing the right thing even if it’s not always easy—I knew it was a story worth sharing.

At the heart of the book is the “Cloo Cookie,” inspired by a very real treat from my childhood—Clue Cookies. I gave the name a little twist, but the meaning behind it is unchanged. These cookies were more than a dessert; they were a tradition I shared with my bonus mom and sisters, full of laughter and sticky fingers. Now, I make them with my own children. They’re a thread that ties generations together—sweet, simple, and full of heart.

Weaving that personal memory into the story helped bring it to life. I wanted The Sweet Snack Swindle to be more than just a fun adventure—it’s a tribute to honesty, to friendship, and to the small traditions that shape who we become. My hope is that readers—young and old—see a bit of their own family stories reflected in its pages.

The illustrations are a story of their own. My son, JT Gutowski, created the original hand-drawn artwork. His creativity brought the characters to life in a way only he could. While he didn’t work digitally, we were lucky to collaborate with the talented Nicole Reasonada, who brought his drawings into full color and added her own beautiful touches. Their combined efforts gave the book its heart—and its vibrant personality.

This story is a celebration of the sweet, small moments that teach us big lessons. I hope it brings a smile—and maybe a memory—to every reader.