“I have had the goal of writing a book for 25 years now. I wanted to prove to myself and to my children that you can and should follow your dreams.” –Kerry Kellogg

Kerry and Brian Kellogg, author and illustrator respectively, have published their first children’s book. Their launch party was at BookEnds in Warner on March 26. The following is an interview with author, Kerry Kellogg.

What is the name of the book?

The Adventures of Otis Pendleton: The Hunt for Autumn

Where did you get the idea?

I love our yard and the trees surrounding it. And I often imagine what secret happenings could be going on there. I think the setting was what inspired me first. I am also fascinated by our pets and backyard animals that I have come to know. Each character is a past, or present, pet or animal that visits our yard with the exception of Clyde, the barnyard cat, and the Raccoon family. They are made up. For instance, Chip, the chipmunk, has just come out of hibernation, and has started scurrying around the yard again. It’s funny to see him scampering about on top of the snow. He likes to bury his acorns in my flower planters in the spring, and he greets me when I come home from work by streaking across my patio.

I have tried to create a little world where the characters come from diverse backgrounds, but they can come together and help each other out. Whether it be family, friends, or politics, it’s nice to strive for some kind of harmony. It’s also about not giving up and appreciating what you have.

How long did it take you to write the book?

Since I’m a teacher, I could only write during summers, long weekends, and school vacations. It took two summers and one school year in between.

When did Brian become part of the writing team?

When I decided to self-publish last August, I needed to find an illustrator. Brian has been supportive of this project from the beginning, and he volunteered. I know how busy he is with teaching, so the thought didn’t occur to me, but once he suggested it, I thought it was a brilliant idea.

Has Brian drawn or illustrated before?

Brian took some art classes as a child and one course in college. He’s always doodling. He captured the characters just as I imagined them. After being married for 23 years, I think he can read my mind at this point. It has been extra special having him work on this with me.

How can we buy the book?

It is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Archway Publishing websites. If people read, and like the book, it would be fantastic if they could write a review on Amazon. So far, it’s just our moms who have reviewed it!

I am almost finished writing book two in what I hope will become a series. My next step is to find an agent and publisher.

Congratulations, Kerry and Brian!