This is my first book. When people ask me how I got the idea, I tell them it definitely had something to do with becoming a grandmother. I felt there was a real place for a Michigan book for younger children...one they could look at and read, that would help them remember the good times they have "up north". I knew I wanted photographs rather than illustrations, a rather unique idea for a children's book. I have seen how much children enjoy looking at photo albums and pictures of things familiar to them.
I had never met Ken Scott, but loved the purity and beauty of his photographs. I took a chance, and asked him if he would be interested in doing this project with me. As you can see - he was! He introduced me to Dianne Foster of Petunia Press in Charlevoix. When she expressed enthusiasm for the idea, things started moving along! We worked with the very creative team of graphic designers at Nielsen Design Group in Traverse City - Emily Mitchell, Tim Nielsen and Jane Kowieski.
The result is a photo-journal of memories from northern Michigan. It is written in a child's voice, and the photographs are displayed in a creative, playful way as the narrative takes you through the seasons. The book may be written with children in mind, but the sales so far have indicated that it has appeal for all ages. Many teachers have given it a "thumbs up", and grandparents say it is a perfect gift for their visiting grandchildren. Locals like it because it is a great way to tell their out-of-state friends about the area.