Susan Sindelar

During all my years as an actor and writer in the performing arts, a great deal of my time was invested in teaching children the craft, creativity, and love of performing on stage as well as on camera. All my workshops and classes for children cultivated the love of acting through a mindful design of teamwork, creativity, expression, empathy, flexibility, and adaptability; life skills to help them successfully navigate their growing years.

It is my belief that the greatest responsibility we have to our children is to instill a sense of wonder, empathy, and acceptance of one another. The ability to solve problems by questioning, and discussing, the things they do not understand, through healthy communication is key. They need to approach these things fearlessly and sensitively within their current and future relationships, to encourage celebration of themselves and others, while embracing their diverse individual contributions.

The idea of a children's book introducing these concepts, within the context of friendship, gave rise to the sweet, unassuming character of Rumble Bear. The actual character of Rumble Bear, was modeled after a Rottweiler puppy, Ursa, who shared our early life, and rumbled her way through every moment of puppyhood.