Liz Kirchner
communitynews@ourvalley.org
On her own adventure, as a girl growing up in Salem, Elise Monsour Puckett dreamed of writing a beautifully illustrated children’s book.
Then, early last year, working at Virginia Tech, she did. She’s published “The Berry Patch,” in which Scout and Kit, brother and sister, set off on an adventure through a magical berry patch learning along the way lessons from a thoughtful mouse about responsibility, and the importance of not picking or eating wild berries without parents’ permission.
Because the illustrations in a book are a child’s introduction to visual arts cultivating a child’s aesthetic sense, Puckett set off to find an artist.
“Surrounded by inspiration and support from the VT University Libraries. I wrote my book and started the search for an amazing illustrator,” she said.
She hired Tessa Riley a VT art student.
“Each page is a replica of Tessa’s hand drawn and painted watercolor illustrations. The pictures are loaded with magical details, where readers will find something new each time they read the book,” Elise said.
Tessa, as a young artist, is excited too.
“I’m thrilled to have a book that is available on an international level in my portfolio. It’s rare for a student to be graduating with their art published in a book, so I think this will really give me a leg up!” she said.
“My advice to other art students is that if you’re really passionate about what you want to do in the art world, pursue it. Don’t be deterred by others’ opinions. Find your style and follow it relentlessly.”
Tessa and Elise have set off on their own adventure, but luckily they’ll be near home.
‘The Berry Patch’ Book Launch Party will be held at Imaginations Toy and Furniture Company (1531 S. Main Street, Blackburg) at 2 p.m. on Sunday, December 10.
Widely known for its support of local artists and effusive presentations, a confetti cannon will announce the launch, Tessa will do some drawings, and Kit and Scout-themed sheets drawn by her will be available for coloring.
“We try to support as many artists as we can. We carry a lot of local music and authors. We have a nice, extensive collection of autographed books. The books have arrived, but if you can’t come to the event, you can call and Elise and Tessa will sign the book and write it out specifically to the child,” Paula Bolte, owner of Imaginations.
“It’s such a sweet story,” she said.
