An interview about It’s Not Pilates! by Desislava Chevallier, presented in partnership with The Children’s Book Review.
Today, we’re joined by Desislava Chevallier, author of It’s Not Pilates, a heartwarming picture book born from a love of movement, connection, and one very determined little instructor.
Author Desislava Chevallier discusses It’s Not Pilates, a movement-filled picture book inspired by motherhood, connection, and a mission to spark curiosity in young learners. In this interview, Desislava opens up about becoming a first-time parent during the pandemic, finding creative ways to build community, and discovering that the key to inviting others into something new isn’t perfection—it’s play, empathy, and meeting people where they are. With thoughtful insights on movement, mindset, and kindness, Desislava reminds us that confidence, resilience, and joy can all begin with one curious step (or stretch).
What inspired you to write a children’s book that combines Pilates with forest animals? Was there a specific moment that sparked this creative idea?
Desislava Chevallier (DC): My love for children, books, and movement led me to a creative venture, my first-ever children’s book, It’s Not Pilates! I became a new mom during the pandemic and found myself thinking about how to build a community around movement. When a friend suggested how much fun it would be to explore Pilates for kids, it was like a light bulb went off. Choosing to share the story through the animals in the forest was like finding a common language with the little readers – children are innately curious about nature and can easily relate to an imaginary talking animal. And what better place to practice mindful movement than nature with all its curious creatures!
I wrote the story in 2021 without any solid plans to publish it. Then I came across the portfolio of the very talented illustrator Stefana Argirova, and I knew it was time to bring the book to life.
Andrea, your main character, demonstrates remarkable persistence and creativity when none of the animals are willing to do actual Pilates. How much of Andrea’s personality was inspired by your own experiences as a Pilates instructor?
DC: My daughter Andrea is the inspiration behind the book – spunky, mischievous, and determined. She reminded me of my own determination when I became a Pilates instructor – I wanted to make all students feel welcome, regardless of their body shape, size, or athletic ability, and meet them where they are in their fitness journey.
Each animal in the story has a different excuse for not wanting to try Pilates. What message did you hope to convey to young readers about trying new activities and adapting to others’ preferences?
DC: Stay curious and don’t be afraid to try new things, you might end up liking them! Trying new things builds confidence and resilience, while considering another person’s preference develops empathy and a new perspective.
The book cleverly shows how Andrea reframes activities the animals already enjoy as “not Pilates.” Was this approach inspired by real techniques you’ve used to engage reluctant participants in exercise?
DC: Yes! It took me a while to develop my own teaching style. I used to emphasize when an exercise is very difficult, thinking that students would feel proud to have done something advanced. Most students would opt for the modification from the start, feeling intimidated. My new approach was to downplay the most difficult moves and to provide clear instructions, without making a big deal out of it. Carefully selected playlists also helped get into a flow.
How did your collaboration with illustrator Stefana Argirova develop? What was your process for ensuring the vibrant illustrations captured the playful spirit of your story?
DC: I discovered the amazing work of Stefana on a famous Bulgarian children’s literacy Facebook group, and I knew she was THE ONE. She had an illustration in her portfolio from years ago of a girl who almost fully resembled my daughter! If that’s not a sign… Our partnership has been seamless and an absolute pleasure!
Stefana already had a well-established process on how to develop an idea into an actual visual book. I fully trusted her in the process and followed her guidance. First, she mapped a page-by-page illustration design plan and options for the color palette. Then she built rough sketches in color. Lastly, we reviewed each page and agreed on the details and touches. Stefana’s style is to capture humor vividly and to develop characters who look friendly and welcoming. She brought life to the book with her vibrant art.
The final pages of your book feature actual Pilates-inspired poses, such as “Spine Stretch” and “Bird Dog.” How important was it for you to include this educational element in what is otherwise a fun story?
DC: One of the main goals of the book is to bring awareness to children about Pilates, the underrated sibling of yoga. I wanted to go beyond a fun story and provide an opportunity for parents and caregivers to demonstrate the moves and use the correct naming conventions. Kids are very observant and can notice the subtle differences between yoga and Pilates when exposed to both. It was very heartwarming to receive photos and videos of families bonding over Pilates!
As a parent yourself, what role do you think children’s books play in encouraging physical activity and healthy habits from an early age?
DC: I think this is my favorite question I have ever been asked since I released the book, no, since I became a parent! Books are my love language. If I have to pick one single bonding activity with my kids, reading books will be it. Children learn through seeing, hearing, and mimicking, and are especially absorbent to content when it relates to the characters. That’s why I chose Andrea to be mischievous and a bit of a rebel, doing cool things and making children feel like they want to try her gig too.
What has been the most surprising or rewarding response you’ve received from children or parents who have read It’s Not Pilates?
DC:
- When my friends keep buying the book for birthday gifts, not just because they are my friends, but because they truly believe the content is valuable for children
- When all the kids who are exposed to the book drop to the ground to try Pilates, while we are still on the first few pages of the book
- When I hear adults saying, “Do you know how many times I licked my elbow last night before bed?” (Inside joke that you will find in the book)
As both a management consultant and Pilates instructor, how do you balance these different aspects of your professional life, and did this dual perspective influence how you wrote the story?
DC: Being trained in the corporate world definitely brought a lot of structure to the way I plan my classes and how I interact with my students, as well as how I executed end-to-end the book writing and release. Teaching Pilates and writing the book have been excellent emotional outlets and a mental reset. Working on Pilates-related passion projects in the evenings at home helps me disconnect from a long day and switch gears. I also find that my inner child is more present during my corporate job, allowing me to bond more naturally with my colleagues and find joy even in high-pressure moments. And the beauty of it is I don’t have to give up either job!
Your bio mentions you’re “on a mission to spark children’s curiosity in movement.” Beyond this book, what other initiatives are you working on to fulfill this mission?
DC: I am working on a book sequel, stay tuned! I am still completing my yoga and Pilates for kids certification and hope to start teaching classes to little ones (and not just adults). I am also taking a course called Kindness Yoga. In this new world of geopolitical uncertainty, war, mental health crisis, and even something good as the adoption of AI, I truly believe in the power of being kind and compassionate humans, which will never get outdated.
About the Book
It’s Not Pilates!
Written by Desislava Chevallier
Illustrated by Stefana Argirova
Ages: 3-9 | 32 Pages
Publisher: Bookfox Press (2024) | ISBN: 9781960157508
Publisher’s Book Summary: Andrea LOVES Pilates. Unfortunately, her forest friends do not share her passion. When she organizes a Pilates class for the animals in the forest, not a single animal shows up. Can Andrea think of a way to convince her forest friends to join her?
Buy the Book
About the Author
Desislava Chevallier is a management consultant, a Pilates instructor, and a health coach advocate. Her love for children, books, and Pilates led her to a creative venture. She is on a mission to spark children’s curiosity in movement. Desislava lives with her husband and two kids in New Jersey.
For more information, check out www.desislavachevallier.com.
About the Illustrator
Stefana Argirova is a graphic designer who developed a passion for children’s illustrations after her son was born. She loves creating colorful worlds full of wonder. Stefana lives with her family in Plovdiv, Bulgaria.
This interview—Interview with Desislava Chevallier, Author of ‘It’s Not Pilates!’—was conducted between Desislava Chevallier and Bianca Schulze.
