How "The Gulf of Mexico: A Rhyming Animal Adventure" Was Born
In January of 2022, we went fishing in the Gulf. As we got to the boat launch, there was an iguana, something not seen regularly in our part of Florida. Then overhead was the majestic sight of not just an osprey – but one with a fish in its talons.
As we headed out, fish were jumping up from the water, and Mr. Wonderful was shouting out all the different species. Seeing a dolphin is not unusual for us but seeing it chasing a snapper through the waves was a treat. I believe it was when we spied a puffer fish that I said, we are seeing so many creatures all in one day — I need to write them down!
We went toward the docks to try our luck fishing there. The animal parade continued with numerous birds in the water and near the shore. A jellyfish was glowing in the shadow of a piling! My list of creatures grew even longer with the wildlife sightings on the way home. I knew this would make a wonderful book!
Well, the next month my dear father died (may he rest in peace). And, as it always does, life went on. Yet the book idea never left my mind. That fall I got around to sketching most of the animals. The funny thing is, I am not a sketch artist. I can draw still life and free-hand pictures pretty well though, and that is what I did. I would find a drawing or photo I liked and try my hand (literally!) at it. Again, other priorities prevailed, but by early summer of 2023 the pencil sketches were complete. I colored them in, being sure to be as true to life as possible.
It was time to write the story part. With my darling book-loving great-nephews in mind as my audience, I penned the rhymes and refrains. This did not take me nearly as long as the pictures! Creating the backgrounds for the animals and the cover art were other fun challenges.
At last, everything came together! John began researching how to publish in December 2023. After many proofs and prints, The Gulf of Mexico: A Rhyming Animal Adventure was born! It’s a book for precious snuggle-up time with your littles, and one they will want to read again and again. You can get your copy here through Amazon and at Barnes & Noble and Walmart stores. (Your Amazon rating or review would be much appreciated.)
A final note: the next book in the ALL IN ONE DAY series is nearly complete — it is called The Florida Keys and Miami: A Rhyming Animal Adventure — and will include a peacock, a flamingo, a mangrove raccoon, a sea turtle and a dozen other creatures. Stay tuned, won’t you?
