Books. Furry, feathered, and finned friendships. And more.
At Bayles Connect, our mantra is simple yet profound: “Learn, live, love, read.” Founded by Alysen Bayles, a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI), Alysen provides author visits, workshops, and speaking engagements on a limited basis, virtually or in-person.
Bayles Connect encourages everyone to embark on a journey of lifelong learning, vibrant living, boundless love, and the joy of reading. Looking for inspiration? Alysen’s weekly Sunday newsletter/blog, Winston Weekly, includes a weekly activity.
ABC Books in Springfield, Missouri partnered with Alysen to donate a portion of the proceeds from her third book, Cambridge and Clyde, to the non-profit, Safe and Sober. Safe and Sober was founded in 2004 by Kurt Larson, Alysen’s friend and a former colleague. In the fall of 2025, Safe and Sober became part of the Prevention & Youth Support Division of Community Partnership of the Ozarks (CPO).
Why Bayles Connect?
Pictured is Alysen’s late-dog, Nipper, who helped inspire her first published children’s book. Formerly a seasoned litigator, Alysen found solace and inspiration in the world of children’s literature, channeling her love for animals into heartwarming tales, including Winston, Silly Sam from Galapagos Land, and Cambridge and Clyde. Bayles Connect was founded in honor of the connections and compassion provided by her late grandparents, Allison and Betty Bayles, and Alysen’s experiences with rescue and shelter dogs.
In December 2024, she and her husband of more than thirty years adopted a dog through KC Pet Project. A little over a year old when adopted, Petra brings a new dimension to Alysen’s world and writing.
The Collection
Alysen’s children’s books have been available through multiple bookstores, including Barnes and Noble and Indie bookstores, and through Amazon. In June of 2025. Alysen’s long-time publisher announced that it will only continue publication of Cambridge and Clyde. Cambridge and Clyde received a Story Monsters Seal of Approval in Early Reader Fiction and Cultural Diversity. Options are being considered for the continued publication and distribution of her books, including several books in progress.
Cambridge and Clyde
Cambridge loves cupcakes. Her dog, Clyde, also loves cupcakes, especially banana cupcakes.
Clyde came from the pound and did not behave when he first came home. He ate everything in sight and jumped everywhere, even on the counters. His nickname is Countertop Clyde.
Clyde doesn’t jump on the counters anymore. Cambridge’s mom wears a robe at work and is called “Your Honor.” Cambridge sometimes goes to work with her mom. Cambridge has a good friend, Sasha.
20 pages
Published November 10, 2023
A portion of the proceeds from Cambridge and Clyde will be donated to Safe and Sober in Springfield, MO.
Silly Sam from Galapagos Land
Ella Cabella loved her cat, Sam, but Sam needed a second name.
Then one day it happened: her cat became known as Silly Sam. Ella Cabella and Silly Sam talked and walked and spent time in the sand.
Their home was a special place known as Galapagos Land.
22 pages
Published April 29, 2022
Winston
Loosely based on Alysen’s family dog who was taken in after being abused, the book captures the power of unconditional love.
Winston is a dog unlike most dogs. Instead of chasing bunnies, they are his friends.
Winston loves to spend time with Sally, the person who took him in, and his best friend, Bossy Bunny.
22 pages
Published November 30, 2020
Alysen’s Mission
Alysen is on a mission to bring joy, laughter, and valuable life lessons to all communities. Her stories resonate with warmth, compassion, and life’s timeless wisdom.
In addition to continuing to write books and articles, Alysen’s interactive workshops focus on engaging and connecting through reading, writing, animals, and the outdoors. Alysen has been featured on Briggs on Books; PR From The Heart (Episode #192); and Sticky Lawyers-Stories From Lawyers Who Stand Out (Episode 39, Sticky Lawyer Storytime: From Litigation to ADR to Children’s Literature).
Alysen’s Journey
After more than two decades in the courtroom, Alysen transitioned to dispute resolution in 2020. In addition to three published children’s books, she has written novels, and a picture and poetry book.
Alysen uses her experiences to help others understand why literacy matters, and how critical thinking and active listening can reduce conflict and improve communities.
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Books. Furry, feathered, and finned friendships. And more.
Bayles Connect 