The first book in the “A Critter’s Tale” series will be coming to bookshelves near you in Autumn 2025!
— About The Author And Illustrator —
The author, Christine Joy Swanson, has spent much of her time with the critters in and around the place she lives. Some encounters with the critters were better than others... With the many unexpected hours that were given to her in 2020, a book of stories began to emerge. What are all of these critters up to anyways? What’s their side of the story? This was Christine’s writing inspiration. Christine Joy is an accomplished painter and art teacher, yet here she is enjoying a new medium of creativity — writing!
The illustrator, Sarah Joy Silva, is a talented classical watercolorist. Sarah has a special love and mindfulness for all things in nature. The critters in this book could not have found a better artist to illustrate their stories. Sarah also was a resident in the Yellow Cottage for 5 years. We believe that children’s books are meant to be things of beauty — for all to enjoy — and Sarah’s artwork is loved and cherished by children and adults alike.
No one knows the author better than the illustrator — not only do they share the same middle name (Joy), but Christine and Sarah were housemates for over 8 years! These two friends have enjoyed dreaming about and telling the stories of “A Critter’s Tale.” They can’t wait to share with you their book in Autumn 2025!
— Self Publishing —
Upon much discussion and planning, Christine and Sarah have decided to self publish “A Critter’s Tale.” This author and illustrator want to create the most beautiful and classic looking book possible! This new book will be hardbound in a classic linen cover and full of beautiful watercolor illustrations. They will be adding a mini PNW field guide in the back of the book, identifying all of the book’s furry friends, as well as including a glossary for early readers.
Because “A Critter’s Tale” will be self published, Sarah, Christine, and the critters, will be raising funds to print 3000-4000 books through a kickstarter in August-September of 2025. If you would like to help the critters reach their goal, stay tuned for the big kickstarter or send us an email through our “Contact” page!
