Author Dawn Lesley Stewart

I enjoy books. I enjoy reading good books.  It is always a bonus when I find good books in unexpected places.

I found good books, and their author, unexpectedly on a writing site that is described as "macro-blogging" and a "social-ecosystem".  To me, that translates to posts that consist of socializing, blurbs about people's lives and daily living, and opinion pieces.  I don't really read that site to find published books to add to my to-read list.

On that site, I follow the posts of a woman who quilts. I enjoy reading about her quilting activities because it reminds me of my grandmother who was an avid quilter.  I was surprised when I followed the link in her profile to a site that lists her published books. It was exciting to find that I've been trading comments with someone who is published.

Dawn Lesley Stewart has published a children's book and a fantasy novel. I have now read them both.

photo courtesy of Amazon

Harriet's Horrible Hair Day.  This is a tale of Harriet's unruly hair. The adventures that her brother and sister take her on in order to tame the wild curls made me laugh. The vocabulary and sibling dynamics were age appropriate. A child's focus on bothersome hair is something we probably all could tell a story about. I kept waiting for the scissors to come out.  Fortunately, the hair problem came to an end without a pair of shears. The illustrations by Michael P White are imaginative and beautiful. 

photo courtesy of Amazon

Mist-Seer. This is a well-written and fast-moving fantasy novel. Fantasy is not typically my favorite genre as some authors have trouble tying up all of the loose ends in a way that makes sense to me. But this story about Lacee, Tyler, and Maddox rang true to me even though it was fantasy.  Lacee can see into the past via touch.  Tyler has ownership of a tar-tung. And Maddox, he has his own unique set of problems.  

It was unclear what time period the story was set in.  The mode of transportation were wagons drawn by beasts and apprentice stable boys cared for these beasts. I felt as though the story occurred centuries ago. And yet, precious gems and time travel give the story a futuristic flavor.  The author does a great job of creating this world that draws you in so deeply that you don't question it.  I felt as though I've always known what a tar-tung is. And as though I've ridden in a wagon drawn by a willa beast. 

If you are looking for a whimsical children's book or an entertaining fantasy novel for yourself, I recommend these books to you.  Thank you Dawn Lesley Stewart for entertaining me.

Disclaimer: In affiliation with Amazon.com, Dawn Rae is a content writer who may earn compensation from the sale of Amazon products. 

A Review of McElligot's Pool

"Oh, the sea is so full of a number of fish, 

If a fellow is patient, he might get his wish" -- Dr. Seuss

McElligot's Pool photo by Amazon

McElligot’s Pool is a wonderful story that was written and illustrated by Dr. Seuss in 1947. While I love everything I know about Seuss and his books, I especially love this story. The magnificently optimistic Marco takes me with him on his fishing adventure.

The Facts

• Theodor Geisel was born on March 2, 1904.
• Dr. Seuss is his pen name.
• And to Think That I Saw it on Mulberry Street was his first book published, in 1937
• A character named Marco appeared in that first book
• Marco made his second appearance in 1947, in McElligot’s Pool.
• McElligot’s Pool is dedicated to Theodor’s father “The World’s Greatest Authority on Blackfish, Fiddler Crabs and Deeged Trout.”

McElligot’s Pool was written in 1947 and was the sixth book written and published by Seuss. I learned today that this is the first book that Seuss used watercolors to create the illustrations. Due to concerns about cost, Random House decided to publish the book half in black and white, and half in these watercolor illustrations.

The Feelings

I have always enjoyed this book. Marco sits on the bank of the pond, hopeful, with his fishing pole. I feel warm, comfy, and dreamy when I read the story of the little boy informing the naysayer that there just might be...

I can remember times fishing with my father, at a very early age, hanging my head over the side of the row boat, imagining the things that may be lurking under the surface. At times I imagined fun and fantastical things, other times I imagined things that made me fearful. But I always imagined.

I loved the times my dad let me go with him fishing. It was an interest we shared. And it was the thing that children crave so much, not necessarily the fishing but the time given from an adult.

As an adult, I realize I have learned a few lessons.

I have learned that it is important to give my time to a child. I know that imagination is a beautiful thing, and I attempt to nurture creativity. Finally, and most importantly, I have learned that although it has become more difficult to ignore the naysayers, I should continue to ignore them, because it just might be...

For more Dr. Seuss 

 The Secret Art of Dr. Seuss was published in 1995. It is a short, coffee table book that displays the previously private artwork of Theodor Geisel. At the time of this writing, this book is rated with 5 stars on Amazon and is highly recommended.

Dr Seuss's Beginner Book Collection contains five of my favorite beginning reader books.  I especially look forward to reading Red Fish, Blue Fish and Hop on Pop to my grandson. The other stories included are: Cat in the Hat, Green Eggs and Ham, and Fox in Socks. 

Dr. Seuss books will never lose their appeal. What a great way to spend time with children, creating memories and enjoying the fantastical lands of Seuss.

Disclaimer: In affiliation with Amazon.com, Dawn Rae is a content writer who may earn compensation from the sale of Amazon products.