“Daisy the Nice Dragon” was written by Hallie Christensen and illustrated by Cristal Baldwin. / Photo courtesy Hallie Christensen
CULLMAN – Vinemont native and Cullman resident Hallie Christensen recently fulfilled her longtime dream of publishing a children’s book, with the release of “Daisy the Nice Dragon” on Sept. 15.
Daisy is a dragon unlike other dragons. She flies and breathes fire, but she doesn’t eat things other dragons eat, like people. In fact, there are things about people that fascinate her, and she even wishes she could have…
Well, we don’t want to give too much away!
Christensen spoke to The Tribune about her project.
“Ever since I was little,” she began, “I’ve always liked writing short stories and participating in Young Writers’ Conferences. And I’ve always wanted to publish a book. In fact, in the book is a dedication to my family and to my younger self, who promised to do this one day.”
When asked how she came by her subject matter, she responded, “My favorite animals are cats, so I’m kind of surprised myself about choosing a dragon. Maybe my next book will be about a cat. But I was an English major, and I enjoy medieval literature, so of course I like dragons, too.”
Christensen wrote the story, then, through the network of a freelancing company, found artist Cristal Baldwin to illustrate her book. She was particularly impressed by the artist’s combinations of ink and watercolor which became the media for Daisy’s art.
Christensen said of her long-distance partner, “She was great to work with, and if I publish another book, I will probably use her again.”
Christensen works in the library at Wallace State Community College, and is an adjunct instructor in English. She has a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Alabama, and a Master of Arts in Teaching English from Faulkner University.
“Daisy the Nice Dragon” is available at Deb’s Bookstore in Cullman. Hard copy and Kindle ebook versions are also available from Amazon.
Copyright 2017 Humble Roots, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
