Just in time for the new year, I started out wanting to release my first children’s book.
I really wanted the readers to feel a connection with the animals.
Started by artist Jessica Swenson─ her palette conveys this writing style beautifully. Sadly, Jessica was not able to finish it, however, I am personally finishing the art and hope to have it out by this coming 2017 year.
Jessica’s dream-like energy was exactly what I was hoping to embody, however, like most individuals, I lacked the time to do it. Now, I’m proud to say that I am able to finally work on this project along with a few other stories I have planned this coming year.
Excerpt:
- Just in the mid of night, many hours after the town drifted to the land of nod,
A small clearing of wood just to the north twinkled in the glow of the Moon.
Tiny lights flickered, a welcome site to the creatures under the canopy.
A soothing hum emitted from the Great Spirit as it patiently waited for Its children.
- Timidly at first they entered, their paws tattered, their wings weary. All arrived, both friend and foe. They waited as the blessed glow of the moon washed over them and the Spirit’s voice echoed through their souls. They sat and waited, their eyes gleaming at one another as they were restored, one by one. They bowed respectfully for the comfort of the wood and the bounty of food.
- One by one their voices raised in song. The wood filled with their humble and broken stories; some of sorrow and some of joy. The Great Spirit listened silently, never interrupting at each concern, fear, and delight. Creatures from young to old began to shine as the colors of their burden rose above, combining with the Moon’s glow. The songs careened overhead in their haunting beauty, a sea of discord reflecting the vivid array of colors in the eyes of Its children.
The story is about man’s re-connection with nature. Think: Miyazaki meets Native American folklore. I adore meshing Eastern and Western styles together, and what better example to think of than Hayao Miyazaki? He was inspired by many Western tales, as I am inspired by many Eastern stories I grew up with as a child. I wanted it to really bring that fantasy element and child-like feeling to life as we journey together with a young boy named Peter, the town of Nod, and the Spirits of the Forest.
In the end, he teaches something to us all. Zoe teaches me each and every time that I listen. So, to celebrate children everywhere I wanted to really capture that innocence that only a child could know. ❤
Like this? Want more Eastern vs Western culture? Join me on my podcasts or on my Sunday Livestreams.
C.A. Greyson 