Michael J. Rubel

Growing up on a cattle ranch in Northern California where the family also grew rice was at times a lonely yet rewarding time in a young man’s life. As a member of the local 4-H club he learned how to care for and nurture animals of all kinds. His mother was Italian and he worked with her in his extensive garden to raise vegetables that she would preserve for the winter. There were no neighbors which led to his love of nature and imagination for all things in life.

After attending the local high school he entered to United States Naval Academy, graduating with a BS in 1963. From there he attended Supply Corps school in Athens Georgia and then was stationed on a Naval ship out of San Diego. He then was selected early to become the head of the supply department on a fleet oiler out of Long Beach CA . He then attended 6 months of training at Submarine School in Groton CT and then served on a nuclear powered, ballistic missile submarine out of Rota Spain.

Upon leaving the Navy he settled in the Pacific Northwest where he raised his family and operated various businesses but began his story telling to his young children at bedtime. Thence was the seminal moment of his books about a chipmunk and a giraffe. His chipmunk tales were the kids favorites, so every night he had to devise a new adventure or introduce a new animal for their young minds to learn and enjoy. Many years later they encouraged him to write these stories so they could always tell them to their own children when the time came. So he published them and is working on a new one called “Benny the Badger of Bearberry Pass” which is being illustrated as we speak.

As you read these stories you will understand the true meaning behind them where an animal ( child ) loses his family or is rejected by his peers but by strength of will and perseverance manages to survive and thrive by making good friends and good decisions. The reader will enjoy the various adventures and perhaps learn something about the animals depicted and lessons in life as well. ENJOY!