Into the Thicket, is based on a real-life adventure when her young son found an injured baby rabbit. 

The story follows the journey of young Patrick and the rabbit. The book encourages an appreciation for wildlife, with compassion permeating the pages. Into the Thicket incorporates themes of overcoming fears, and loving — and letting go. Readers will see how even small acts of kindness make a difference in a great, big world. 

Stunning watercolor illustrations on every page are by renowned Ann Arbor artist John Megahan.

The picture book, How Happy Is a Lark? introduces children to a fun and poetic aspect of language. Turning similes into questions, timeless ponderings (or are they really questions we’ve never dared to consider before now?!) like “how wise is an owl?” and “how sly is a fox?” are finally revealed in funny and delightful ways.

The book features joyful stories and artwork that will make your children laugh out loud. “How silly is a goose? A goose dresses in a clown costume and has a one goose parade down Gooseberry Lane …” Buy the book to enhance your child’s imagination and inspire more joy in their reading and writing.

Available in the author’s local area at:  

• Adventure, Ink, Milan
• Schuler Books, Ann Arbor, Coreander’s Children’s Bookshoppe, Grosse Pointe Park,  Vault of Midnight, Ann Arbor
• Brewed Awakenings, Saline
• At these Michigan libraries: Ann Arbor District Library, Milan Public Library, Plymouth District Library, Troy Public Library, Ypsilanti District Library & Book Mobile
• & Internationally available at Scribbles and Quills, Trinidad, West Indies

John Megahan’s love of art and nature has always directed his career. Growing up, he spent his time outside exploring, and often drawing, what he saw. In college, he studied biology and art. Fortunately, he found the profession of science illustration that combined his passions. After college, he worked as a freelance illustrator for several years, developing a large clientele that included governmental and advertising agencies, universities, publishers and more.

In the mid-90s, John became the senior scientific illustrator at the University of Michigan’s Museum of Zoology, where he is currently working. Over the years, he’s greatly enjoyed teaching art and biology.

Other children’s picture books John has illustrated include W is for Waves, An Ocean Alphabet, Thumping on Trees and The Red Fox and Johnny Valentine’s Blue-Speckled Hound. He looks forward to painting more wildlife and nature scenes, and illustrating more picture books.

Jenny Kalejs is an artist, acolyte of the written word, admirer of nature, enthusiast for rec sports, professional playlist maker, devotee of all dogs, lifelong Michigander, compulsively creative daughter, sister and friend.

Bringing stories to life: Jenny has the remarkable ability to breathe life into the words of authors. Her illustrations are more than just visuals — they are windows into magical worlds, inviting readers to embark on unforgettable journeys with the turn of each page. 

For commission inquiries, email Jenny or send a message on Instagram @jennycardsandco

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