Wise Marie & the Ladybug
Explore the BooksMeet Natasha Brune
Hi! I’m Natasha Brune — the author and heart behind Wise Marie & the Little Ladybug. These stories are inspired by my own childhood in the 1970s, full of big questions, backyard adventures, and the gentle wisdom of a grandmother who always made me feel seen.
I created Wise Marie to help kids feel brave, curious, and loved – just like I did when a little ladybug seemed to show up at exactly the right time. If you believe in magic, friendship, and the power of small voices, you’re in the right place.
The Wise Marie is actually
a metaphor title for Kim and her mom. The
Wise Marie Paradise Edition is Kim. All
stories are based on true events in Hawaii
for the adult and wherever she traveled
during that time. The children’s stories
cover Wisconsin and Hawaii child to age 13.
The Wise Marie Ancestors is about her
mom and her being the original Wise
Marie. They are wise, but not always in
making their own choices, which has
shaped their lives. Marie is a character
in her and her mom, were once very
light, dark, and then light again if that
makes sense.
The children’s books end in the 80s
when she is 13.
The wise Marie books from her will go
on until she stops writing about her.
About the Author
Explore the Characters
Meet four unforgettable friends from the world of Wise Marie. From courage and curiosity to joy and quiet wisdom, follow along as they learn, laugh, and grow together in stories full of heart and wonder.
Wise Marie
Curious and big-hearted, Marie loves adventures, deep questions, and helping others — even if it means biking through a graveyard.
Ladybug
A quiet, watchful guide who appears just when needed — never loud, always wise, and full of tiny magic.
Joey
Bursting with energy and wild ideas, Joey dives into every backyard mission with bugs, bravery, and a heart full of wonder.
Anne
Playful, fearless, and full of joy, Anne leads with laughter and charges into life with wide eyes and open arms.
Testimonials
If I could bottle the feeling this book gave my daughter, I would. Wise Marie and the Little Ladybug is now bedtime canon in our house.
