Janice Phelps Williams

Janice Phelps Williams has enjoyed a nearly lifelong involvement in art and writing. Her most recent book is EMMELINE GRANT AND THE MONSTROUS BEESH, (300 pgs, 53 illus., in print & ebook). It will give readers a glimpse into Pletonia, a fantastic, imaginary country, and Emmy, a brave, curious 13-year-old girl. Below is her note to readers at the end of Emmeline Grant and the Monstrous Beesh.

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Dear Readers,

I have so very much enjoyed writing and illustrating Emmeline Grant and the Monstrous Beesh. It took a while to finish, but Emmeline never let me rest from my responsibility to tell her story.

When I was a child in Ohio, my family lived near a large woods. There was a wonderful stream down the hill from our house. How I loved to play there: to explore the rocks and guppies in the creek and climb the trees near the water’s edge. Flowers and leaves have always caught my eye, as do insects and birds with their unusual shapes and fancy coloring. I lived in Florida for many years and enjoyed the seashells and wildlife along the Gulf Coast. I’ve also called northern Michigan my home, living near the Great Lake by the same name. I loved to paint and also walk along the water’s edge marveling at the beautiful rocks there. Now, my husband (also a writer) and I live in Ohio again, near Lake Erie, with a smart and funny English Bulldog (Abby) and a cuddly dachshund (Maggie).

My formal art education was from Kent State University with a degree in Fine Art. I’ve worked in publishing as an editor, designer, and illustrator. It all began with a great art teacher I had in grades 9–11: Catherine Lotze. I still remember the thrill I felt when purchasing a new set of watercolors from her classroom cupboard.

All my life, I have felt a sense of wonder in every season as I go outdoors and observe the beauty of nature. When I first met Emmy on the pages of my notebook, like you have met her here, it seemed she was already endowed with a love of exploring the natural world. It is a very special feeling to write a story and hope that someone might enjoy reading it. I hope that you have enjoyed reading Emmeline Grant and the Monstrous Beesh.

­­~Janice Phelps Williams, October 2020

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Bio:

Over 16 years as a book producer and publisher, Janice brought more than 250 books to the marketplace, several of them award winners or finalists. Contributing on all aspects of nonfiction and fiction development (including editing, cover design, interior layout, illustration, and marketing), Janice has worked with writers throughout North America and England.