Local Author and Illustrator Create a Children’s Book featuring the Jack Russell Park Manatee
So nice to meet you Ruth. Tell us in what part of the First Coast do you reside now and how long have you lived there?
I have lived in the Selva Lakes Community of Atlantic Beach now for six years. I’ve been in the Jacksonville area for 12 years.
How long have you been doing your craft or trade?
I’ve done some writing previously, but this is my first published work.
What brings out your creativity?
The beauty of the world, collaborating with other creative people, but most importantly, life itself.
What does your work aim to say? Are you trying to bring a smile to someone’s face or add to someone’s home decor?
Because the book is based on a real happening, when I first told friends and family of the occurrences of that day, I got laughs and smiles. I thought, “I’ve got to put this into writing…with pictures to show the action”.
Are there any spaces or designers that have influenced you?
I love the beauty of our community and relish living here. I had to research the creator of the manatee statue that stands by the Atlantic Beach City Hall, Paul Ladnier, Professor Emeritus of UNF to get his permission to use the image of his creation on the cover and in the story of my book. He was delighted to comply and is given his due credit in the book.
What is your favorite artistic accomplishment?
This book.
Do you have a specific piece you would love to talk about or promote?
The process of how the story denoted in the book evolved into a beautifully illustrated children’s book is an interesting one. The three generations depicted in the story give it appeal to a broad age range.
What is the best way for artists to network?
In-person connections are always great, but often not easy to arrange. As social media has expanded, networking has improved, but good and well-thought-out communication is still important.
If you had a question you would like to ask another artist what would it be?
How do you best find the time to create your craft?
What’s the best thing for you about living on the First Coast?
The Atlantic Ocean! I’ve lived up North but always had to travel to get to the ocean. All who live on the First Coast can get to the ocean quickly, especially those of us close to the beaches.
How can we see your work?
My website is stuckmudbook.com.
Facebook: Ruth Children’s Book
Is there anything else that you want to tell everyone?
I launched my book in 2022 when Atlantic Beach Mayor, Ellen Glasser was still in office. We set up in the pavilion of Jack Russell Park, the site of the story, and I gave book readings. I have sold there again, and also at the North Beaches Art Walk, Arts in the Park, and the Beaches Museum. I held a program at the Beaches Branch of the Library with my illustrator. The program told children about the author and illustrator collaboration to enhance the interests of our young audience. As an additional educational element, we featured a segment about the Florida manatee and the struggles that this species faces.
How else would you like to promote your book?
I would love the opportunity to hold more programs and readings and am open to suggestions as to where to best do this.
- About the Author
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Glenn is the founder and publisher of First Coast Life. He is also a wonderful storyteller. Born on the 4th of July, he spends his spare time taking his camera and exploring everything beautiful this region offers with his rescue dog Callie by his side. He loves meeting new people and capturing the many beautiful moments and amazing local stories that showcase the true spirit of the area.
One Response
I love how the story captures the details of how one unexpected event effects four different people, and the picture at the end teaches children a great lesson about things working out in the long run.