Canadian author of memoir and children’s books
Stories of resilience, motherhood, and lived experience — written with honesty, warmth, and hope.
Coldwater, Ontario, Canada
The memoir
A mother’s true story of love, addiction, and unbreakable hope
A powerful true story of love, resilience, and a mother’s unwavering bond. In His Lyrics follows Jackleen’s journey alongside her son through addiction, mental health struggles, an autism diagnosis, and homelessness — and the hard-won hope and healing found along the way. Written with honesty and compassion, it is a story for anyone who has loved someone through their darkest chapters.
“You never know how strong you are until being strong is your only choice.”
As a young boy, Ashton’s life was seemingly typical; he was popular and outgoing. Ashton made friends with ease and was always exploring new adventures. People often described him as kind-hearted and endearing. However, the life we lived behind closed doors held a different truth for our family. Until now, it hasn’t been shared in its entirety.
The books
From an unflinching memoir to a warm children’s series, Jackleen writes about resilience, family, and seeing the world a little differently.
A mother’s true story of love, addiction, and unbreakable hope
A powerful true story of love, resilience, and a mother’s unwavering bond. In His Lyrics follows Jackleen’s journey alongside her son through addiction, mental health struggles, an autism diagnosis, and homelessness — and the hard-won hope and healing found along the way. Written with honesty and compassion, it is a story for anyone who has loved someone through their darkest chapters.
Fynn and His Magical Senses
Some sounds are wonderful, and some are a lot to handle. Fynn’s ears notice everything — and this gentle story helps young readers understand big sounds, big feelings, and the kindness that helps us through them.
Fynn and His Magical Senses
Follow Fynn, a bright and brave boy, as he explores the amazing — and sometimes overwhelming — world of touch. A reassuring story about sensory experiences and being proud of what makes you unique.
Fynn and His Magical Senses
Fynn’s nose is extraordinary — he can smell the world in ways most people can’t imagine, from fresh-baked cookies to the faintest hint of rain. A warm, playful celebration of experiencing the world a little differently.
Fynn and His Magical Senses
The world can look big, bright, and sometimes overwhelming. Join Fynn as he discovers how he sees things in his own remarkable way — and learns that being different is something to celebrate.
Fynn and His Magical Senses
From breakfast to midnight snacks, food is a whole adventure for Fynn. With his friend Kyra by his side, this playful, heartwarming story celebrates taste, friendship, inclusion, and kindness.
Coldwater, Ontario, Canada
The author
Jackleen Givens is an articulate storyteller and the captivating author of her memoir, In His Lyrics. Residing in the picturesque village of Coldwater, Ontario, Canada, she has spent three decades crafting a life filled with love and adventure alongside her devoted partner.
As a proud mother of two sons, Jackleen draws from a rich tapestry of experiences that resonate deeply with readers. Her writing is a powerful reflection of her journey, offering a unique perspective that invites you to explore the world through her eyes — with a passion for connecting through words.
Together, Jackleen and her son navigate the tumultuous waters of his addictions, mental health issues, and a life of crime leading to chronic homelessness. Jackleen is not just an author; she is a voice of authenticity and resilience, inspiring others to embrace their own stories.
That same compassion now shapes her work for younger readers in the Fynn and His Magical Senses series, which celebrates children who experience the world a little differently.
Media & press
Podcast appearances, features, and interviews where Jackleen shares the story behind her writing.
Jackleen joins Behind The Village for an honest conversation about homelessness, addiction, an autism diagnosis, and the resilience of a mother’s love.
Watch
A feature on survival and healing, and the lived experience behind In His Lyrics.
Read
A spotlight on motherhood, purpose, and the story that became In His Lyrics.
ReadEvents
No upcoming events are listed right now. Check back soon for future book signings, readings, and community events.
Contact
Request a personally signed copy, invite Jackleen to speak, or simply share your story. She reads every message.
Prefer email? You can email Jackleen directly.