Waaay back in the mid 1990’s I was lucky enough to be able to work with my friend the noted childrens book author Stephen Cosgrove. Usually we got together over coffee or a meal, sat outside if at all possible and “quacked” as he called it. He was completing a new series entitled Earth Angels and wanted me to illustrate the books. Stephen had wonderful success with his previous works and we had tried a few ideas together but for me this was the first to hit big.
All the memories of illustrating these books came rushing back when Stephen recently asked if I still had copies of the books. The opportunity had presented itself to produce a digital version of the series and I would be scanning the images. Sounds GREAT to me! Needless to say I jumped at the chance. There were some tense moments and unrealistic deadlines but I learned tons and had such a good time. The books are fun ways to teach some basic, important values and lessons for kids. Each book addresses a value like…
Jingle Belle – The Value of Giving. Jingle is sent to Earth during the holiday season to record in the Book of Miracles all the gifts given from the heart. This was one of the last books in the series and Stephen (acting as Art Director) was busy elsewhere so I had carte blanche with the images. It’s one of my favorites.
I found some on Amazon. Click here:
Another of my favorites (for obvious reasons) is the story dedicated to my son, Andy. Patrick BentWing teaches the Value of Being Yourself. Patrick tends the Garden of Red Rosary Roses. His bent wings kept him from feeling special but he finally discovers the truth with the help of his friend Gideon.
Over the years my computer skills have advanced and digitizing these images, while a lot of challenging work, is good rewarding fun. I’m sure I’ll post more about this project as it moves along.
OK, so back to scanning !
P.S.
If you’d like to check out the rest of the series here’s a link –
And be sure to check out Stephen’s websites for all of his amazing work:
and
Artbear Studios 
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