The Magical Journey of Bob Crane

The Magical Journey of Bob Crane is a story about the annual migration of Sandhill Cranes that fly through WA. in early March. Bob, the main character is one of six thousand cranes that stop for three days to rest in Othello, WA. The residents in the small city of Othello hold an annual crane festival each year to celebrate the arrival of the cranes. Bob is a member of the B.B.A better known as the Best Bird Academy. His mission is to entertain the visitors coming to Othello and find a way to thank the birds that live in the wetland for sharing their habitat. Each night before Bob falls asleep, he looks up to a wishing star and asks how he can make a difference in the lives of all birds. After dinner, Bob falls asleep. Barry, a fairy wren pays a visit and wakes Bob up. The little bird tells Bob he is his fairy god-bird and grants him three wishes. Bob comes up with an idea that will help all the birds living in the wetland.

About the Author :
Karen Nicksich was a teacher for almost thirty-five years. She attended college in Colorado and has her Master's of Education and a gifted and talented education endorsement. Karen grew up in Upstate New York. Currently, Karen is living in Richland, WA, with her husband John, her son, William, her daughter, Rachel, and their two dogs, Maddie and Oddie. This book is based off a real Sandhill crane that walks up and down the street where she lives. The family named him Bob. During Karen's spare time she volunteers for Love on a Leash with Maddie, a certified therapy dog and also is a Wishing Conductor for Wishing Star Foundation. Karen's favorite activity is watching the variety of birds that visit the bird feeders in her backyard. This is the fourth book Karen has written. Her other books include "Life Lessons of a Rescue Dog," "The Tales of Maddie," and "The Time of My Life." Karen also wrote a photo-documentary book about specially-abled children called "Earth Angels" The book contains nine narratives of families raising children who have above average needs. This book was inspired by her daughter; Rachel, who has Ectodermal Dysplasia, a rare genetic disorder. Karen wrote "Earth Angels" for any college student going into education, social work or counseling. Born in the state of Washington and surrounded by Pacific Rim art has instilled within me a love of the sacred connection between animals and humans. I began drawing animals when I was five and was lucky enough to have my first horse, an Arabian Tennessee Walker, at age sixteen. The special bond between horse and rider fascinated me and sparked my curiosity into seeking the attitude of all the animals I paint. Earning a Zoology degree at Washington State University was a natural fit, providing a perfect foundation for understanding animal anatomy. I have always sought out the company of local artists, and those friendships honed my skills in watercolor and painting composition. In 1998 I made the decision to become a full-time artist, committing eight hours or more a day in a studio setting. These studio hours have given me the opportunity to explore beyond my favorite medium and incorporate techniques which uniquely enhance the personalities of the animals. Although I have displayed in many galleries and museums throughout the West, I prefer to show my work personally and get to know my collectors. I believe a personal connection between artist and collector enhances the underlying story behind the painting, providing more depth and insight. Pam Sharp currently lives in Washington and, while caring for her nine-year-old granddaughter and ninety-one-year-old mother, she still paints and teaches.