Barbara A. Hawley

When it comes to those impressionable ages 10-14, I believe in stories laced with faith and friendship. Books that sneak past eye rolls, win over reluctant readers, and spark something lasting. Whether you're a parent looking for something that inspires and entertains, or a teacher seeking an engaging classroom read, the Julie Mitchell Mystery series is here to meet your needs. I want to be an author you can trust for wholesome, compelling fiction!

I’m a TCK (Third Culture Kid). Growing up in SE Asia, where my parents worked in medical missions, I experienced international travel, boarding school, and a cross-cultural environment. My perspective outside the cultural bubble has given me a passion to introduce young readers to unique global settings and characters.

Yesterday her biggest fear

was starting a new school.
Today she's just trying to stay alive.

Julie Mitchell anticipates a fun summer with friends before starting high school—until her missionary doctor dad accepts a position halfway around the world. Leaving her Ohio life to begin school overseas, she travels with Lauren Powers, daughter of the American ambassador.

Minutes after the international flight, three terrorists take Julie hostage. The clock ticks toward a terrifying fate, and Julie's only hope is to pretend to be someone she's not.

Photo ID is a mystery adventure with themes of faith and friendship. It will appeal to 10—14-year-olds, or to anyone looking for stories packed with action and intrigue.

A mystery
series that takes young readers across borders!

Find it on Amazon

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Will a sunken Spanish galleon give up its centuries-old secret to a 12-year-old from nowhere?

Globe-trotting Julie Mitchell has been sent to a week of expat camp to learn about America. Instead she discovers that campers are being used to find an ancient shipwreck. A greedy treasure hunter is after Maimisia's riches. Can Julie beat them to it?

Find out in this mystery adventure as Julie takes her first case!

Open Books, Open Worlds:
Nurturing Global
Readers & Thinkers

Why a 14-year-old detective doesn't need car keys

Everyday transportation that makes the Philippines wonderfully navigable.

17 hours ago

Beyond words: 15 nonverbal ways to communicate across cultures.

Universally understood gestures can help minimize language barriers between cultures. Is anything more awkward than attempting to communicate with someone who doesn’t speak your language? It doesn’t have to be! Here are 15 nonverbal ways to connect without words. 1. Offer a warm, genuine smile. 2. Use open body language : with your arms relaxed, face the person directly to show you’re approachable. 3. Engage in gentle eye contact to communicate attentiven

Oct 24, 2025

12 gestures of welcome: hospitality across cultures

We can express kindness and hospitality even without a shared language. Three little girls sat at my table for lunch: my daughter, the...

Oct 6, 2025

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Leah was one of my very first beta readers and has given me a face for my 'target audience.' Her encouragement has kept me writing!

Artwork by Leah. The best

compliment an author can get!

What You Didn't Know About the Author

5 Fun Facts:

I have visited over 20 countries.
I’d like to claim that I’ve visited all 50 states, but Mississippi is unverified.
I attended 6 schools before college and have lived in over 30 houses. In one town I lived in 4 different houses!
I’ve eaten balut, which is a food featured on the Fear Factor game show.
I once stumbled—literally—upon the body of a dead man on the beach.