Geekery: Top Twelve Fairy Tales and Stories Disney Should Make Into Feature Films

 I love Disney.   Thus, it is no surprise one of my  childhood (current)  pastimes was coming up with my own versions of fairy tales and stories for my favorite company ever.  I decided it would be fun to rework and extend my "list" including illustrations and explanations of my choices.  Three of my childhood headcanon Disney dreams came true with my hope of seeing animated versions of The Frog Prince (The Princess and the Frog), Rapunzel (Tangled), and The Snow Queen (Frozen). Though I will admit my versions were just a bit different. 😄

Below you will find my current To-Be Disney Daydreams.  Of course, as a 2D enthusiast, I imagine these in the fluid and gorgeous animation of The Disney Renaissance.



The Firebird
Igor Stravinsky-Ballet Version 
Slavic Folklore

There are many versions of this Russian folktale, but my favorite is the story told in the famous Igor Stravinsky ballet.  The story centers around Prince Ivan, a hunting enthusiast who spares the life of the enchanted firebird.  This triggers a series of events leading to an magical castle, a lost princess, and an evil sorcerer-great elements for a Disney feature.  I think this fairytale would be a great addition to the Disney films, and would provide an opportunity to explore Russia as a setting.  Fun Fact: The Firebird Suite from the ballet is actually used in Disney's Fantasia 2000, but the music was set to a very different story (featuring the beautifully designed Nature Sprite).  I would love to see the fairy tale version as a classic Disney feature, with the addition of a Russian Disney Princess.

Noah's Ark
The Holy Bible

Speaking of Fantasia 2000, this story was also featured in the animated collection.  The Fantasia version was cute (featuring Donald Duck as Noah), but I would love to see this story tackled with the same seriousness, respect, and stunning visuals that made Dreamworks' The Prince of Egypt so memorable.  Biblical stories have movie potential, but they can be tough to translate to film.  The Prince of Egypt found ways to keep the story of Moses fresh and exciting without pop-culture jokes or kiddie humor.  The excellent soundtrack, stunning animation, respect of the source material, and the decision to focus on the brotherly dynamic of Moses/Pharaoh made for a fantastic film.  I would love to see an animated version of Noah's Ark that treats the story with the same integrity.  I think Disney could come up with incredible flood visuals, unique animal characters/designs, and of course, a musical score.  Perhaps the story could be told through the eyes of  Noah's dove or raven.

Jorinde and Joringel
Grimm

My love of this fairytale stems from this quirky anime fairytale show I used to watch on Nickelodeon once upon a time in Nostalgialand.   The show introduced anime before it became "a thing" and also introduced many lesser known fairytales I've come to love.  One of my favorite episodes was "Jorinde and Joringel" which is based on a German fairytale.  The story follows a couple (Jorinde/Jorinda and Joringel) who are to be married.  Their wedding plans are cut short when a shape-shifting witch turns Jorinde into a bird and takes her to an enchanted castle.  Joringel must then fight his way to the his love, fending off the spells of the witch who has turned many townspeople into animals.  I used to imagine this one taking place in Scotland instead, but since Brave took its place in the Disney movie spectrum, I have reimagined it as an Irish fairytale involving the fantastic fae legends of Ireland.  Why not add some leprechaun and pooka sidekicks?

The Goose Girl
Grimm

The Goose Girl is a European fairytale reminiscent of the Price and the Pauper...but with a twist.  A princess and her evil handmaiden (who resembles her royal counterpart) are sent on a journey, and that's when the adventure begins.  The servant is a villainous and greedy character who forces the princess to switch roles when the two women are sent to meet the handsome prince the real princess is to marry.  This plot makes for a lot of interesting misunderstandings, as the prince (who is a kind man) finds the "princess" a heartless and cruel woman. Of course, he falls in love with the handmaiden who is actually the real princess.  I think there is a lot Disney could do with this story.  In my "Disney" version, the story would take place in India.  We've seen a little bit of India in "The Jungle Book" but I would like to see more of the people and legends in this vibrant country.


Lady of the Lake
Arthurian Legend

Based on Arthurian legend, this would actually be a sequel if to Sword in the Stone.  The Lady of the Lake is a magical being in the tales of King Arthur.  In my version, the story is told from the Lady of the Lake's point of view, as she describes what really happened to King Arthur, Queen Gwenevere, and Sir Lancelot.  I enjoyed the unique take on Sword in the Stone (with Arthur being more of the supporting character).  I think that the Arturian tales of the king's later years would have plenty for Disney to work with.  Like Sword in the Stone that was more of "Merlin's story", Lady in the Lake would be told from the mysterious deity's point of view.


The Odyssey
Homer

Homer's Greek legend has it all...a seafaring adventure, mythological monsters, and a loving family at the heart of the story.  I would hope to see "The Odyssey" in its pure form...with an adult father as the main character.  Newsflash: Everyone does not have to be a teen! Look at the success of Avengers and Marvel heroes for assurance! I feel like an animated reinterpretation today would probably involve a teen Odysseus-but I'd love to see the story as it was intended to be; the tale of an adult father finding his way home to his family and reclaiming his kingdom.  While I did enjoy Disney's experimental Hercules, I always hoped to see Disney take on a feature-length Greek legend in its classic form (similar to Pastoral Suite in Fantasia).  I would love to see the clever hero take on the cyclops, sirens, witches, and gods in this timeless tale.

Romeo and Juliet
Shakespeare

Okay, so maybe without the tragedy...and the excessive love scenes...and the suicide...and the murder...   Hear me out. I think they could make it work...if the famous Shakespeare family rivals were cast as cats and dogs!  I always imagined this one in the same animated style and storytelling as Robin Hood; anthromorphic characters in another time. This version would differ vastly from the original, but I think Disney could have some fun coming up with designs for  mutt Mercutio and tomcat Tybalt.  And the star-crossed lovers *probably* wouldn't die tragically.  Would they go for another single-word title (Brave, Tangled, Frozen) to trick kids into thinking it wasn't just a yucky romance?  (Rivals? Starcrossed?)

The Wonderful Adventures of Nils
Selma Lagerlöf

You probably haven't heard of this childhood favorite.  However, the memory of a dim lamp, sitting on my mom's lap, and a great book are fresh in my mind after all these years.   I'm sure children of all ages would look forward to an animated feature based on the same story if they knew about this great book.  Nils is a Swedish story that centers around a rascally little boy who likes to tease the animals on his family farm.  He captures a gnome/sprite/fae who shrinks him but gives him the ability to speak to animals.  Nils manages to forge a friendship with one of the domestic geese on the farm. When the farm goose makes an impromptu decision to join a flock of wild geese, Nils finds himself on an accidental adventure soaring over Sweden.  Both Nils (who learns to become a man and to treat all creatures with respect) and the goose (who learns the ways of the brave, wild geese) grow together as they encounter many new friends and foes. This story is my mother's first choice for "hypothetical Disney movies", and it's easy to see why.  Nils Holgersson would give Disney a fun new hero and a chance to utilize Sweden as a setting.

Bamboo Princess
The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter-Japanese Folklore

Speaking of shrunken people adventures (a favorite subgenre of mine...more on that later ;)), Disney needs to look no further than "Bamboo Princess" for another strong heroine.  Think Thumbelina in Japan.  I know I would love to see a peapod-sized princess taking on Japanese insects.  I thought of this idea many years ago,  before new Studio Ghibli movies were available. Currently this lovely Japanese fairytale does exist within the Disneyverse (in a way)distributed  in the form of the great Miyazaki's Princess Kayuga.  I would still like to see a Disney musical version of this story.  (In the original tale, the princess is found in a bamboo shoot (similar to how Thumbelina is found in a flower).  In the story, she is courted by princes whom she rejects. My husband came up with a cute idea of how she falls for one of the prince's servants.  However, if you wish to see a version that is a little more authentic and true to the source material, add Princess Kayuga to your watch list!

Mufaro's Beautiful Daughters
By John Steptoe

I was obsessed with this book in third grade. I loved the illustrations and the themes and I remember trying to copy and draw the style on the back of my worksheets. This African fairytale follows two sisters; kindhearted Nyasha and cruel Manyara.

(Spoilers Ahead....!)

 In the story, the good prince is seeking a bride and both girls go on a journey to meet him to see who he will marry.  Along the way, the sisters encounter different people and a talking snake who serves as a "fairy godmother" role.  Nyasha treats all of the people (a sick boy, old woman etc.) with kindness and helpfulness no matter their station in life, but selfish and arrogant Manyara is cruel to all she encounters, including the snake.  In a surprising twist, the snake (and the other people) turn out to be prince in disguise.  Having befriended Nyasha and seeing her kindness, she is chosen to be his bride, and both their fairytale dreams come true.  I think this Cinderella-story African fairytale would be a great fit in Disney's worldwide collection, and I would especially love to see Manyara as a Disney villain.

And the #1 story that should be a Disney animated feature is...

A Midsummer's Night's Dream
Shakespeare

This story was Disney before Disney existed.  Ever since I "starred"* in this Shakespeare play in high school, I could not help but wonder...WHY is this not a Disney animated feature?  It has everything Disney could ask for...public domain material ;), romantic misunderstandings, fairies, comedic relief (a bumbling acting troupe), mischievous sprites, and a dude with a donkey's head on his shoulders.  A Disney "Puck" could have the same claim to fame as Jiminy Cricket if they got it right. There is room for memorable musical numbers, exciting character design, and an opportunity to get the kids interested in Shakespeare.   In my version, Oberon (King of the fairies) would be the villain, but much of the original would remain the same. I mean, wouldn't you love to meet Titania at Disneyworld or buy a Hermia doll? There isn't much Disney needs to change with this one. It already has all of the elements that would make for a great animated feature.  Just add music!

*(I played Moth.)

Bonus #12...The Twelve Dancing Princesses
Grimm

Because why would Disney not want to have 12 more princess to sell in the toy stores?!  In the original story, the princesses are "defiant" daughters who just want to go out dancing with their princes in a secret world.  A soldier is hired to find out what is happening, and reveals the truth to the king when he brings back proof of the hidden realm.  Then... he gets to marry one of the princesses.

Well, there are plenty of reasons why Disney wouldn't go with *that* version, but most  fairytale origins tend to be too macabre or downright strange for today's audiences.

I have two ideas for this one. Idea #1 involves a reunion of all the Disney princesses.  Imagine seeing Rapunzel, Jasmine, Belle, etc. dancing under one roof and fighting evil together. (Snow White, Cinderella, Aurora, Tiana, Rapunzel, Anna, Merida, Jasmine, Belle,  Pocahontas, Moana, and Ariel).   

My version involves twelve original princesses who are named after the months in the year.  The story follows enthusiastic-yet-socially-awkward Princess September, who is better at inventing than dancing (and is known for her atrocious footwork).  She desperately wants to dance and wishes to fit in with the other princesses, who have gathered at Princess January's castle to celebrate a royal event.  Despite being complete opposites, elegant and popular Princess January is Princess September's loyal best friend.   However, when she is lost to a secret and enchanted monster world, Princess September sets out on a quest to find where the princesses were going-and venture into the unknown world to save the others....




I would love to hear your thoughts, comments, and your own Disney Dreams in the comment section below! Which ideas or illustrations do you like, and which unused/forgotten fairy tales or stories would YOU like to see as the next Disney animated feature?


P.S.  I am planning a book and a blog post with my story of The Twelve Dancing Princess...coming soon!

Clip-Art Creator Interview: The Cher Room

               Clip-Art Creator Interview: The Cher Room

1. Could you tell us a little bit about your art background?

I've got no art background at all!

I have been a science and math person all my life. I wanted so much to draw, such that I attended drawing classes for many years when I was a kid. I guess the lack of achievement from those classes tells a lot of my 'talent'.


 2. What is your favorite subject matter to work with when it comes to your clip-art

Science of course!  


3. How did you get into creating clip-art?

I was doing IT support a couple of years ago for my teaching school, and there was this event where the organizers wanted an animated background on the scene. I actually created the scenes by drawing and animating the scenes on Powerpoint. 

I then started to use Powerpoint to create diagrams and pictures for my lessons, rather than taking them from publishers' image bank, which mostly don't satisfy all my needs. Then Powerpoint couldn't satisfy me anymore, and I moved on to Inkscape.

4. What do you enjoy most about making clip-art?
I liked how I can create diagrams that are accurately correct, and also incorrect in whatever way I wanted to teach misconceptions!

  

5. Do you have any tips for TPT sellers (who use clip art) or clip-artists?

Stay true to what you can do best, not what that is selling well. I am still struggling with that today, but I remember making sets similar to what other sellers had that sold like hot cakes, and I regretted them so much. They looked horrible, and they are not selling.

6.What is your favorite clip-art set you've created and why?
Human Reproduction set. This set was improved again and again across a period of one year, and I think its current look deserved my favoritism.

7. Tell us about your best-selling clip-art set.

A set on Energy that was recently revamped, covering all aspects: Types of energy, sources of energy, generation of energy and so on.




 

8.  Which clip-art set was the most challenging?

My career sets! People are so difficult to draw!

 9.  Do you take requests?

Yes! In fact, all my sets lately are requests.

Clip-Art Creator Interview: Saroum V Giroux

               Clip-Art Creator Interview: Saroum V Giroux

1. Could you tell us a little bit about your art background?

I've been drawing since I was pretty young. Probably 10 years old. I started taking art classes in high school and just loved it. It was only until my senior year of high school that I realized I knew how to paint. I went to San Diego State University and graduated with an art degree, with an emphasis in painting. I taught drawing classes for elementary kids for about a year . I then ventured off into a photography and graphic design business and have been a freelance artist for the last five years. Art is a big part of my life as I am now currently homeschooling my two elementary kids incorporating as much creative learning as possible. I also have a real estate investment business with my husband.  In flipping homes with my husband, I am able to utilize my art and design experiences to help home design and decor.

2. Do you have any tips for TPT sellers (who use clip art) or clip-artists?

For TPT sellers, I highly suggest using quality clip art and for clip artists, I recommend avoiding comparing your work with others. Do not judge your starting line with someone else's finish line.

3. What is your favorite subject matter to work with when it comes to your clip-art?

So far I love creating alphabet and number clip art with specific themes.

4. Do you take requests? 

Yes, I love working on ideas and collaborating with others. I have so many ideas in my sketchbook and hope I can make them come alive!

5. Do you have any related websites to share?

Yes, I have my website which has my blog, portfolio and shop that is related to my clip art work as well as my art and photography work and projects. Check it out at www.artbysaroum.com and I just launched my shop. So hope you have fun browsing.

6. What do you hope to accomplish with your clip-art?

I hope that I'll be able to create a large portfolio of clip art work and continue to grow as an illustrator. And along this journey, I hope to have meet others that support my work, in turn, having a community of artists and art lovers.

7. If you made a million dollars off your clip-art, how would you spend it? 

If I made a million dollars off my clip art, I'll probably scream at first. I'll love to invest some of the money in real estate and then do what I've always wanted to do and that is sponsor a child in each continent of the world!  I'll also love to start a non-profit to help children by creating a camp that nurtures a love for art and nature.

Gem vs. Baby

 Stardate  April 13, 2017

Most days, I try to act with integrity, accountability, take responsibility for my actions and do the right thing.  Today was not one of those days.

It happened at a store in the mall I will refer to as Action Figure World.  I had been going through a difficult transition period in life, and drove up to the mall listening to the local contemporary church-y station in an attempt to feel better about little things I shouldn't have been worrying about.  Some twenty minutes later, there I was, scrambling to find a dorky Easter gift for my husband.  It had to be something personalized, but not too expensive.  Childcare options did not work out and I had recently left my job to stay home with my son.  Finances have never been tighter, so I needed to choose carefully.

I wandered around the store in a sleep-deprived daze, searching for something to complete a basket-on-a-budget.  To my delight, my little nerdling seemed taken with his surroundings, oogling the heroes and Jedi relics that adorned the wall. 

We walked by a shelf of "Stephen Universe and the Crystal Gems" pop figures that took me back to my pregnancy days when I would  binge watch the cartoon and sing the theme song to the wiggly baby in my belly.  All was well and we journeyed on, yet to find the perfect basket surprise.

"Wow, he really likes that!" One of my fellow nerd shoppers exclaimed. "I think he likes the taste!"  I looked down in the stroller to see my son devouring the corner of the cardboard box.  He has quite a mouthful of teeth for a baby his age, and is beginning to resemble "Dale" from Rescue Rangers.  Those teeth...they can gnaw.

But the bite-mark isn't too bad, I told myself.  In the back of my mind, I could hear the leader of the Crystal Gems telling me to just buy it.  You wrecked it, you bought it.

No, I decided, I don't need a Lapis Lazuli Pop Vinyl right now.   It's probably the last thing I need.

She returned to her place on the shelf.

It's not a big deal.  What does it matter? It's just a nibble in the corner.  The figure itself is perfectly fine.

"Um, you need to buy that.  I can't sell that to customers," said a voice from beyond.  Alas, the ever-observant, short-haired Action Figure World lady knew all and saw all.   

So I apologized for my bad decision-making and bought Lapis Lazuli like I should have done in the first place.  It couldn't have been Rose Quartz?!  The clerk was nice about it, but made her point and I understood.

At first I felt anger, for getting caught doing something so stupid, for now being forced to buy a Lapis Lazuli Pop Vinyl I didn't need. Then I felt shame. Seriously, I never want to be "that" person in a place of business.  I respect shopkeepers and public places.  I mean, the Crystal Gems wouldn't do something like that! (Well, Amethyst totally would, but I digress.)

To make a long story short, this gnawed on Lapis Lazuli is now my favorite pop figure in the house.  Times are tough, but I am lucky and blessed in many ways.  It also serves as a reminder to do the right thing even when you are your worst.  Someone is always watching, be it God, T.J. Eckleburg, or Action Figure World employees.

Everything Else Elevens: 11 Underrated Female Literary Characters

I know Jo March, Lucy Pevansie, and Anne of Green Gables and had an impact on who I was and who I am. But this post isn't about the Jos, the Lucys, or the Annes.   I've noticed in some circles, often literary ones, there are certain female characters who have a status they don't deserve.  Some are forgotten, some are underrated, some are frequently disliked or dismissed, and others should be more well known.  With that being said, I give you my list of the Top* 11 Underrated Female Literary Characters!
*=Not necessarily the "top", but the top 11 that came to mind. :)

(Be warned, some spoilers ahead!)

Qualifications: 

A) It had to be from a book I've read (I am not counting movie portrayals)

B) I have to had both enjoyed the book and felt something for the character/learned something from the character

C) The character is either underrated, generally disliked, unknown, or in the shadow of another main character

D) The character cannot be an already celebrated/beloved character (such as Lizzie Bennet, Jo March, Lucy Pevansie, Katniss, etc.)

E) They could be a main character, but are from a book series that deserves more attention.

F) The focus is more on the character than the content, criticism, and reputation of the book.


Amy March

Little Women
by Louisa May Alcott

Amy March tends to get a bad rap in literary circles.  Sure, she has her ditsy moments and makes some questionable choices (the beloved Jo does as well...)  So why all the hate for the youngest March sister?  Amy starts the story on the spoiled, vain, and selfish side...but she is twelve for goodness sakes!  Yes, some of the Amy hate may stem from the fact that...(spoiler)... she marries Jo's suitor and best friend, Laurie.  However, she does grow up and demonstrates a deep love for her family as the story progresses. While I always related to Jo more than Amy, I appreciated Amy's interest in the arts and her creativity and talent.  Cultured and sophisticated Amy wasn't afraid to give Laurie (her suitor at the time) a stern lecture when he needed it and speaks her mind throughout the novel. Jo will be my forever favorite (possibly all-time favorite), but I always found Amy to be the most entertaining of the March sisters, and the most underrated.

Mother Abigail

The Stand

by Stephen King

There are some fascinating female characters in the StephenKingverse (and apocalypse genre in general), but this lady is one of the strongest heroines to date.  Surviving the apocalypse as a 106 (108?) year old independent woman all alone cant be an easy task.  Mother Abigail rises as a leader and is the glue that holds the mission of the story together.  Despite experiencing a variety of hardships and heartaches, she remains kind, determined, and strong in her faith.  Sure, Frannie and Nadine deserve their places in fictional character acclaim, but let us not forget this wise elder who fights, survives, and leads her people to take a stand.

Angela Wexler

The Westing Game
by Ellen Raskin 

Without giving away any spoilers in possibly the best mystery in children's literature,  Angela Wexler (and The Westing Game) should be as famous as Agatha Christie!  Ms. Wexler is a character who is pressured into a marriage she resents, seen as "just a pretty face", and dismissed as a nobody.  While her spunky younger sister, Turtle, deserves her praise, Angela has her own place in literary history.  Described as having one of the "best character development arcs in a mystery" by an English teacher, Turtle's kindhearted and demure sister makes some big changes and brings some big surprises, shaking up the quirky cast of other timeless characters playing The Westing Game.

Polgara

The Belgariad

by David Eddings

Polgara is a formidable sorceress from the beloved Belgariad series.  She is on the list for a) not being as well known as Gandalf and Dumbledore when she (and her father) deserve to be on the same tier...and b) gets a reputation of being too "bitchy"in some circles.  Her sometimes cold and condescending personality makes sense once you learn more about her backstory and experiences.  Some readers attribute this problem to the fact that too many other female characters in the story are portrayed this way (which is true! But they are still great books with great characters.)  For Polgara, I always found her to be a witty, intelligent, wise, and sometimes nurturing character with a mysterious past.  My favorite scenes were always the Polgara scenes. You go, Aunt Pol!

Melanie Wilkes

From Gone With the Wind 
by Margaret Mitchell*

Saccharine sweet and kindhearted Melanie Wilkes lacks the fire, wit, and determination we see in the infamous Scarlett O'Hara.  I'll admit I enjoy the Scarlett scenes and find Ms. O'Hara more fascinating than Miss Melanie as most do, but which one would you really want to be your friend? While Scarlett, despite her (many) flaws certainly deserves her recognition as a beloved heroine. Melanie, on the other hand, is often dismissed as boring or forgettable or even a doormat-despite the fact she openly defends other characters in an almost defiant way(such as prostitute Belle, the infamous rogue (Rhett), and Scarlett herself.) However, she is not perfect, and harbors a lot of ignorance associated with the setting and time of the novel. (There is a lot to be discussed about the book in terms of history, racism, and some pretty warped perspectives)*. Throughout the chaotic changes and dramatic events of this tumultuous time in American history, Melanie remains genuinely kind, calm, loving, and probably the most forgiving character in literature 'till the very end.

Rosalie Cullen

Twilight

by Stephanie Meyer

*Disclaimer* Yes, I know.  Yes, Twilight. Yes, I am well aware of the flaws, trust me.  There was a time before the movies came out, the first book was neat hipster "secret" that one of my former students described as a "gothic mind trip".  Twilight is no "Gone With the Wind" or "Little Women", but I enjoyed this guilty pleasure back in the day.  However, my favorite part of the story wasn't Bella, Edward, or Jacob.  I liked the vampire family and found their backstories and characters more interesting than the love story.  One of the best characters, in my opinion, is one of the least appreciated.  Even among the Cullen Clan, it is usually perky Alice or stoic Carlisle who gets the attention. Rosalie, on the other hand, is "edgy" for Twilight and takes the book to another level.  Sure, she was kind of snooty to Bella, but there is some real character development behind her personality.  It is not Bella's, but Rosalie's backstory and character makes Twilight feel more like a real "vampire novel".

Samara Marshall

Living Violet

by Jaime Reed

Speaking of Twilight, this character (or her story) couldn't be more opposite than Bella Swan. As the main protagonist in Jaime Reed's Living Violet (Cambion Chronicles), Samara is a character you feel you "know".  Sure, the book has your boyfriend "from beyond", but this spunky, snarky, Shakespeare-quoting character was a lot of fun and gives the reader a refreshing take on the genre.  Samara's voice and actions come across in a natural and believable way that works well in the story.  I don't want to give away any spoilers, but Samara is a unique lead heroine in a unique paranormal romance that deserves more attention.  Some of her inner thoughts had me laughing.  Great voice, great character.

Fleur Delacour

 Harry Potter Series

by J.K. Rowling

I remember the Harry Potter discussions.  Who is your favorite supporting character? This was usually met by the typical Hagrid, Cho, Ginny, Mrs. Weasley, -even Draco replies.  Who is your least favorite character?  So many times Fleur Delacour came up in conversation.  Why? She's "flaky" or "spoiled" or "high maintenance".  That is partly true, but if that's the case, why does everyone love a spoiled, mean, and high maintenance character named Draco Malfoy?!  I do think some of the Fleur hate stemmed from the fact that two beloved characters-Mrs.Weasley and Ginny Weasley- did not share Ron's enthusiasm for the Beauxbatons witch. To me, despite some of her flaws, Fleur makes some surprisingly heroic, strong, and non-judgemental decisions.  She shows a deep love of her sister, gratitude when she is protected, and shows how much she truly loves her soulmate in the face of crisis.   She may come across as another pretty face, but there is more to Fleur than meets the eye. (Though she probably shouldn't have dissed Mrs. Weasley's music choices.)

Nya

A Long Walk to Water

Linda Sue Park

I first encountered Nya when my mother encouraged me to read "A Long Walk to Water" by.   I'm glad I heeded Mom's advice, because I couldn't put it down!  While Nya's part of the story takes up a little less than half of the book (the other is devoted to another character) any girl that has to walk barefoot for miles to retrieve water for her family...then walk BACK with it on her head...deserves some recognition! The other main character, Salva, gets more literary attention. However, there is a good reason, as Salva is a real person and Nya is fictional.  It's also important to consider that Nya, while a fictional character, represents the reality of many girls in some parts of Africa.  Check out this fast-paced read to learn more about this brave girl. (Side point, but this book does  A LOT of good for real people. In so many ways. Check it out!)

Susan Pevansie

Chronicles of Narnia

by C.S. Lewis

While I love C.S. Lewis and the Narnia Chronicles, I spent many years feeling rather unhappy with the way Susan's character was handled in the end.  To avoid major spoilage, I won't go into the details.  However, I've found there is much more to Susan's "end" than meets the eye, and lots of open doors for the character after researching the subject years later.  Ending aside, Susan is a character in Narnia that is often forgotten.  No wonder she feels the way she does when she is older!  Everyone has a lot to say about brave and righteous Peter, courageous and imaginative Lucy, and even the sneaky yet goodhearted Edmund. Then there is Susan. The girl that isn't Lucy.  Susan is a practical, motherly, and stubborn character who always wants the best for her family, and rises up to face many challenges in the story. As a skilled archer, she is proactive and daring, playing a big role in the history of Narnia. She is definitely a character who deserves more cred, and who knows, maybe a better "ending" awaits Susan after all...

Mrs. Frisby

Mrs.Frisby and the Rats of Nimh

by Robert C. O'Brien
Mrs. Frisby isn't your typical middle grade  heroine for a few reasons...she's a single mother, she's a widow, and did I mention she's a mouse?  This daring rodent makes the list for starting the book as a skittish and nervous field mouse and evolving into a hero who is more courageous than the bravest rats.  To date, Mrs. Frisby is the only main protagonist of a middle grade novel (I can think of) who is actually an "adult" and a mother.  Motivated by a desire to protect her children and save her sick son, Mrs. Frisby is one of the literary greats.  To find out why, give this timeless novel a read! (Some parts are quite different than the animated film!)

It All Began With a Narwhal...

I don't know what it is with sea creatures. It might be because I have fond memories of the ocean or because I've watched "Blue Planet" with the same enthusiasm and frequency as "Star Wars".  Somehow, the residents of the ocean often end up in drawn form around here.

 The Day of the Narwhal occurred sometime back in 2006.  I was a college graduate who needed a little direction, experience, and  well, a job.  So there I was, 25 minutes late to the interview (got lost! Oops!), overwhelmed to see it was a "panel" interview consisting of parents, teachers, AND students, and pretty sure I ruined my chance to step into the world of education.  To make a long story short, I managed to collect myself , not projectile vomit on the whiteboard, and win some points with my "party trick" of drawing.  What did the kids want? A narwhal.  Everyone rejoiced.

After the interview, one of the teachers on the board mentioned how the kids loved the narwhal.  "We knew we wanted to hire you as soon as you drew that narwhal," one of the other teachers mentioned. Thankfully, my poor navigating skills were forgiven and thus I began my journey into teaching.  I began illustrating study guides for students in our special education program. However, we quickly discovered ALL students could benefit from the visuals! Soon, teachers from different grades and subjects were requesting custom cartoon visuals to assist students. Teachers loved having something they could save for future use and students seemed to enjoy the quirky style.This experience lead me to create a variety of classroom visuals that I decided to later share and sell making them available to everyone.  While many things have changed in my life, it delights me to know that my designs are being utilized in classrooms and resources worldwide.  The feedback, usage, and response to these products have been overwhelmingly positive.  I look forward to creating more visuals for teachers and possibly illustrating some personal projects down the road.

My business logo started as a narwhal, but I had trouble getting the educational element across in the visual.  It was reborn as "The Yellow Octopus", holding a variety of school supplies in his/her arms, but they looked too primary when my focus skewed secondary.  Finally, a fish who could double as a reading lamp swam through the depths of my subconscious and into the light. Thus, Illumismart was born!
(I also tend to geek out over bioluminescence.)

This is the first time I've attempted to start a blog the "right" way. (Planning, having everything set up 3 months in advance, etc.)  I am really looking forward to this round and what the wonderful world of blogging will bring!

Generally, this blog will have consistent "types" of posts.


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