By CATHERINE ELLERTON
Moapa Valley Progress
We’ve all heard of that famous night before Christmas as well as Santa and his sleigh and his trusty reindeer and Rudolph who saved the day (or night). Well, Mesquite author Barb King has presented another side of that story in her new children’s book “T’was Christmas Eve In Mesquite, Nevada.”
Barb King currently lives in Mesquite. But she is from Pennsylvania where she was a school teacher for 13 years. So it was a relatively easy leap into the world of children’s literature.
“I have always enjoyed the smiles on the faces of children while reading books to them,” King said.
One thing led to another and ideas were born and developed and photographs were taken to back up the research work. Soon artist Diana Coonradt (originally from Moapa Valley and a member of the MV Art Guild) was brought on board the project. She illustrated skillfully, creating a memorable children’s book for the Holiday Season.
“I found the perfect local illustrator, Diana Coonradt, to paint each page in brilliant watercolor to enhance each child’s reading experience.”
Kids of all ages can enjoy the challenging dilemma that Santa faces in this story on that very special night and they can relate to the feeling of excitement as Christmas draws near.
King said that she has been inspired by the beautiful landscape surrounding the Mesquite area. She enjoyed featuring that landscape in her story.
“It was fun detailing the flight of Santa Claus to our desert town while delivering gifts and using poetry to tell the story,” she said.
This is the first book for the author. It can be purchased at the Mesquite Fine Arts Center and at Danielle’s Chocolate and Popcorn Store in Mesquite, as well as online at bbq.1960@hotmail.com.
