Our Story
Jenna and Everett Hartley are the co-founders of Hartley Kids Books. Everett is the star of the team here, as the Hartley Kids Books that are in progress have all been his ideas and mostly his work!
Meet Jenna
Jenna Hartley, or Coach J, is a soccer coach, scientist, science communicator, former classroom teacher, and current mom of three. In addition to multiple licenses in soccer coaching, environmental education, classroom teaching, and bus-driving(!!), Jenna holds a PhD in Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management, MS degrees in Environmental Sciences & Engineering and Science Education, and a BS degree in Environmental Geology. This is a prime-time nerd who loves to learn and also has a passion for sports and soccer.
Jenna and Everett share a love for soccer, so their second project together is building a soccer workbook for players and coaches.
Meet Jenna's Oldest Son, Everett
Everett Hartley just turned 10 years old. He was 6 when he wrote his first book, The Whole Wide World's Worth (and when this photo was taken!), which launched this page. He lives with his family, surrounded by woods, and really likes to read, play and watch sports, and watch nature TV shows, especially ones narrated by David Attenborough. Everett thought of the idea for The Whole Wide World's Worth while reading bedtime stories to his younger twin siblings when they were really little.
He started working on The Soccer Passport Series with his mom when he was nine. He was inspired by watching the 2026 FIFA World Cup and helping his mom think up soccer coaching drills and activities for their rec soccer season. They're going to use the Soccer Passport this season!
