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Joy in childhood

I live in Southwest Michigan with my husband and three fun loving kids. As a family, we love our Up North adventures where we often ride bikes, hike, and play in the water. We do that here at home too. But there's something about going away Up North that increases your creativity. My first book was inspired by the quaint town of Leland, Michigan- Fishtown!  

I hope you enjoy it!

I didn't set out to be a children's book author and illustrator but here I am! I love making up fun stories and funny situations. My kids are often entertained by my ideas and stories. They are where I get most of my ideas from! Growing up, my dad told funny and creative bedtime stories that entertained my sisters and me for years, often including theatrics that made us laugh. My mom is very artistic and encouraged drawing and art. So, I guess combining those together and me being an author/ illustrator makes sense! I love creating fun and playful stories about lighthearted topics that capture the joy of childhood. 

Dana and kids at the zoo.

Become a Sponsor!

Book cover Leland-for canva_edited.jpg

Join me in my mission to encourage and bring joy to children in the community by becoming a sponsor! 

What that entails:

As a classroom sponsor, your investment of $350 per class ensures that each child takes home an autographed softcover book, is gifted with a bookmark and coloring sheet, and gets to experience a book reading and educational talk with me. The classroom teacher and library will also receive a copy. 

Your sponsorship means so much to me and to the kids who benefit from your generosity! 

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"Thank you SO much for having us! Our school was so thrilled to have you and now I have multiple 5th graders who want to be authors when they grow up!

Thank you!!!!!"

Makayla Shelton, 5th grade teacher 

Are There Any Fish in Fishtown? 

Book Cover Are There Any Fish in FISHTOWN?

Fun and entertaining, we follow Lou throughout the story on his quest for a catch in his favorite Up North town of Leland, Michigan. He waves to fishermen, grabs a bite to eat, and takes in the sights and smells that make this small town a favorite of his. Will he have success?  

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