Mike Brindle writes from the heart of Appalachia—specifically Frog Level, a tucked-away rural community in Ewing, Virginia where small-town charm, misty hills, and big imagination collide. It’s here, surrounded by the quiet countryside and front-porch storytelling, that his creative world first took root.
What began as Frog Level Treasures—a bold, homegrown venture in the world of e-commerce—quickly expanded into Frog Level Tees and Frog Level BBQ, blending art, humor, photography, and a deep love of food and graphic design. But it was in the ever-evolving world of Print-on-Demand that Mike discovered the perfect crossroads of storytelling and design, leading to his debut book Tad Goes to the Beach—a whimsical coloring adventure that introduced readers to Tad, an irresistibly charming frog inspired by Mike’s own logo character and the soul of his hometown.
Readers quickly asked for more, and Tad answered the call. Two additional coloring adventures followed, each expanding Tad’s world and fan base. Soon after, Mike took Tad on his biggest journey yet in his first full-color children’s storybook, Tad’s Smoky Mountain Adventure, a vibrant story infused with wonder, exploration, and heart.
Never content to stay in just one creative lane, Mike stepped beyond Tad’s universe with Birds of Virginia, a heartfelt tribute inspired by the lifelong bond he shares with his father and their shared love of backyard birdwatching.
Beyond the page, Mike has written and directed original dinner theatre productions, transforming imagination into living, breathing experiences. His stories are fueled by family, memory, travel, and the quiet magic of everyday life—always grounded, always vivid.
With new books on the horizon—including a murder mystery adapted from one of his theatre scripts—Mike Brindle is just getting started. Tad’s adventures are only the beginning… and readers are warmly invited along for the journey.