Author Spotlight

Andrea Zeddies

I was looking for a way to connect my work as a psychologist with my love of flowers and nature. Writing provided that bridge, and gave me a vehicle for sharing what I've learned about how nature heals. I have written a book for adults, Flower Therapy Journal and recently a children's picture book, Charlie's Friendship Garden, which is based on the story of my father, Charles McBride, who was born in Texas in 1926 and contracted polio when he was three years old. My father was kind, patient, and resilient, and an accomplished man—a professor and a botanist. He had a "green thumb" and cultivated a magical garden when I was growing up. I wanted kids to know that they too, can achieve greatness, despite having a disability or being different from other kids. The book is not about polio. It is about how we all have differences and should treat each other with respect and kindness.

Currently I am thinking about writing a sequel to Charlie's Friendship Garden, as I have a diary belonging to my father from the 1940's when he was a teenager. I am also developing an online course on using nature to combat stress, and I have a monthly appearance on a segment, "Mental Health Mondays" on a local TV morning show called Studio 512. We all have the inner tools and the resources around us to make small, positive changes in our lives. When bigger problems occur, it's important to reach out for help from a doctor and/or therapist. Right now—given the state of our world—most importantly, we need to be kind and respectful to one another and recognize the gifts each of us has to offer.

The US Review of Books offered a seamless process for securing an authentic review of my book. I felt like the reviewer was thorough and highlighted the main points I was trying to convey.

About the Author: As a native Texan and daughter of a botanist, Andrea Zeddies was born with wildflowers woven into her being. She is a psychologist, floral designer and author. She has worked as a psychologist in private practice and hospital settings for over 20 years, primarily with children experiencing symptoms of autism, ADHD, and behavioral concerns, as well as providing support for parents. More recently, she became engaged in researching the power of nature, and flowers in particular, in healing mental health concerns such as depression and anxiety. Her first book, Flower Therapy Journal: A Prescription and Guide for Self-Care & Living Your Life in Full Bloom, was published in 2024. Her latest book is a children's picture book based on her father's experience growing up with polio, Charlie's Friendship Garden, published in 2025. When not immersed in her work, she enjoys spending time with her husband, three daughters, and their dogs and cats, all of whom enjoy gardening or helping in the yard in one way or another.