Mary C ParksMary C. Parks was born and raised in the suburban Mid-west. These playful illustrations are intuitive to exploring the awe of summer family days and nights at the lake with her curious son, Brad, and grandsons, Anthony and Leo. As a national and stat acclaimed art teacher of thirty-five years, kindergar-ten through the college level, Mary also published her works in ILLUSTRATOR magazine for four years and illustrated several cookbooks. Retirement unfolded an unanticipated life for this multi-technique artist. While art history, travel, technology, and trends contribute, Mary's art echoes the spirit of her heartland roots."Art is the voice that uses no words; it sees, listens, and reflects. My illustrations for the "Songs of the Lake" were inspired by nature's glory and by reflecting on the enlightening words of author Marnie O. Mamminga. It is my hope that our words and illustrations awaken the imaginative wonder in the minds of children." - Mary C. Parks Read More Read Less