The SVMS educator duo of Felicia Parish (left) and Meredith Lesney teamed to illustrate and write a Children’s Book.
For those of you who do not know yet, Saucon Valley Middle School librarian, Meredith Lesney and art teacher, Felicia Parish, have recently embarked on a literary journey into the world of writing and illustrating childrens books. Two weeks ago the artistic efforts of this dynamic duo have paid off as “Spaghetti and Meatball” hit the bookstore shelves courtesy of Hellertown’s Momosa Publishing.
Spaghetti and Meatball is a cute and heart-warming story of an endearing, little duck who becomes lost and searches for a new home. The undertones of love and acceptance shine through in this feel-good story. Spaghetti and Meatball is a quality read that is very well written and expertly illustrated. It is a playful and cheerful adventure that will be enjoyed by all.
You will not be disappointed with “Spaghetti and Meatball “.
Saucon Source was able to catch up with Meredith and Felicia last week to ask them about their new odyssey and this is what they had to say……
Q: Can you describe how the idea of Meatball first came to light?
A: (Meredith) My favorite cousin, Bailey, gave me a stuffed animal because he knows how much I love them. I took one look at the duck and thought that he is round like a Meatball so his name was born! I brought him to school and started telling stories to my students about Meatball. The kids instantly thought he was funny because of his name. They kept asking for more stories, so I kept making up stories about Meatball and they loved them.
Q: So, at what point did you decide to take Meatball to the next step and put the pen to the paper?
A: (Meredith) I had always dreamed of writing a book, so when my students encouraged my storytelling, I decided it was time. I wanted to show my students that if you have a dream, and you are persistent and motivated, you can do anything.
Q: You and Felicia are such great friends and a natural tandem for this venture. Can you describe the first time you met and your friendship in general?
A: It was the first day of school about sixteen years ago, and we were both new to Saucon Valley Middle School. We just happened to sit next to each other in a meeting and became instant friends. I guess it was friends at first sight! We also have the same quirky sense of humor which helps when we collaborate.
Q: What was your inspiration for the storyline in Spaghetti and Meatball?
A: (Meredith) I was adopted from Korea when I was an infant. I always wanted to create a story to explain to kids what adoption is and how it can lead to being part of a loving family.
Q: Did you, at all, find it difficult to create the pictures to go with the storyline?
A: (Felicia) I wanted to make sure that I got the character just right. I worked with Meredith and, after a few sketches, we selected our favorite drawing. As for the pictures in the book, I sketch what I think the pictures should look like and then show them to Meredith. We decide what works and what needs to be changed. Meredith is so supportive and she really helps me to create great illustrations for the book.
Q: Do you plan to continue with the adventures of Meatball?
A: (Meredith) Yes, the second book is in the works. I’m not sure when it will be out, but stay tuned!
Q: Is there anyone else you would like to credit for getting Meatball off the ground?
A: (Meredith) I’d like to credit the kids from Saucon Valley for their love of Meatball. And, my mom who has always encouraged me to push myself out of my comfort zone and try new things.
“Both Ms. Lesney’s and Mrs. Parish’s passion for reading and illustrating respectively, has been a benefit to encouraging the students of SVMS to take risks and follow dreams. I’m proud of them both, and I look forward to more Meatball adventures. The Saucon Valley School District is blessed to have Ms. Lesney and Mrs. Parish leading and teaching the students of our community.”
SVMS Principal, Jim Deegan
Meatball Mentionables!
- Meredith, Felicia and maybe even Meatball! will be available for Book Signing Events at the Barnes & Noble of the Promenade Shops on November 7th & 20th from 6-8 p.m.!
- Did you know Meatball has his own Instagram account? Anyone can follow him at Meatball_sandwich2 !
- You can contact Meredith, Felicia and maybe even Meatball at il*******************@gm***.com!
- You can order Spaghetti and Meatball through Momosa Publishing, Barnes & Noble or Amazon!
Order a copy of the book through Momosa Publishing by clicking here!
SVMS librarian Meredith Lesney with her new friend Meatball!