Melinda Hoffman is an artist. Even in her most contemporary work, remembrances of landscape elements are always at play. She has been called a "storyteller" by mentors and she uses those instincts to paint the photographs taken for this book. Melinda uses her art work and her children's books to simplify and emphasize values she hopes will prevail and be shared with children, young and old. Melinda has a small book project into Afghanistan where she shares the wonderful children's book we love in the US with a country of limited print production and where books from the outside threaten Taliban militants. She feels that well illustrated books carry deep messages for readers and non-readers to explore and talk about. Sara Helen, also an Indiana University graduate, taught first grade for over 40 years in the public schools of Columbus, Indiana. One of her specialties was reading and she always said she had books for every reading level...every child. Her last years as an educator were spent training and working with teachers enhancing their understanding and use of reading skills in their class rooms. In editing this children's book, Sara brings an emphasis to each word and its rhythm.