Ryan Borts

Ryan didn’t set out to write a children’s book. Brook Looked Up, inspired by his daughter’s name, Brook Summit, came to him all at once one afternoon when she was 10 months old.

Once upon a time, the Iowa native was an aspiring poet, accepted into the University of Iowa’s Undergraduate Writer’s Workshop and then Texas State’s MFA in Creative Writing program, which he passed on because he met a girl (who became his wife).

Ryan is currently a producer and director of award-winning video and photography work. Outside of that, he has a passion for family road trips through rugged landscapes and charming towns.

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Holly St. John has been passionate about art since childhood and earned her MFA from Vermont College of Fine Arts. A Christian, she lives and works guided by her faith.

Holly illustrated Brook Looked Up using watercolors and pencils, blending her love of storytelling with her artistic skill, to achieve a timeless style. In addition to the cover, this book includes 9 classic pieces, including her favorite piece, the 6th illustration of the story.

Holly enjoys working in a variety of mediums, including painting, pottery, and jewelry. She finds joy and inspiration in the peace of countryside life, where she resides with her husband and son, surrounded by animals and family.