Meet the Author

Ashlee Thompson

Gemma Bear Stories was founded by Ashlee Thompson, a wife, mother of two beautiful daughters, and passionate storyteller with a big heart for families.

Ashlee’s journey as an author began with her first children’s book, A Cloudy Heart, a story written straight from love and necessity. Her eldest daughter, Ruby, was born with congenital heart disease and bravely underwent two major heart surgeries before the age of two. While Ruby’s resilience was inspiring, Ashlee struggled to find the right words to gently explain Ruby’s medical journey—especially the scar left on her little chest—to a curious three-year-old who couldn’t remember the challenges she had faced.

Out of this need, A Cloudy Heart was born. The book was written as a comforting and relatable way to explain Ruby’s story, while also opening the door for meaningful conversations. Ashlee quickly realised that her story could also be a valuable tool for other families navigating similar journeys.

Through Gemma Bear Stories, Ashlee hopes to provide parents and children with thoughtful, heartfelt books that help explain life’s challenges in a way that feels safe, warm, and reassuring. Her mission is to create stories that bring families closer together, turning difficult conversations into moments of love, understanding, and hope.