JoAnne Pastel

A Mother, an Author, and an Activist…

JoAnne Pastel is the founder and president of Farmer’s Hat Productions®, and has successfully created and self-published the award-winning Bur Bur and Friends® book series. JoAnne and Kakie Fitzsimmons—both moms of multiracial, multicultural kids—had a hard time finding books and toys that reflect the reality of our diverse world. Identifying this unmet need in the market, they decided to create their own line of books and products, and have been recognized for excellence by numerous educational, parenting and media organizations.

JoAnne holds a Masters of International Management in Marketing from the University of St. Thomas.

In 2005 she made the leap from a successful financial advisor to award-winning children's book author and savvy entrepreneur. Her 20+ years experience in sales and marketing paved the way for her status as a mover and a shaker who creates winning strategies and puts them into action.

JoAnne works as an activist for numerous community causes focusing on children. Through her efforts with the Children's Tumor Foundation and the University of Minnesota, she is currently working to create awareness of Neurofibromatosis.

To learn more about Farmer’s Hat Productions, and Bur Bur & Friends, go to: burburandfriends.com