Loretta Welk-Jung is the author of Crystalene, the Rainbow Snow Girl, a children's book series that delights the reader with positive messages, while preserving the values of family, heritage, and tradition. In addition to her book series, she has published numerous articles and teaching guides for educators during her 35-year career in elementary education. A recipient of the North Dakota 'Teacher of the Year' award, she continues to write poetry, assist high school writing courses, tour with author visits, and serve as a guest presenter. The importance of being a lifelong learner remains her focus. She lives in North Dakota with her husband and enjoys the beauty of the Midwest.