YVONNE PALKA is an award-winning sumi-e artist. A retired college professor, grandmother, artist, and naturalist, she loves introducing children and adults to the wonders of the natural world and the beauty of their own creativity.She loves sumi-e (Asian brush painting) for the simple elegance with which it captures the spirit of nature. Inspired by this simplicity, she teaches children and adults the essence of sumi-e painting in schools and other community settings. The same magic of the heart that gives rise to to her sumi-e paintings gives rise to her dragon stories.

"Like Ed Emberley, the artist offers clear, step-by-step instructions . . . Charming, practical, and a good guide to using a brush to create simple illustrations."—Kirkus Reviews"The details make this Asian brush painting technique so appealing that both children and adults will be tempted to work at it together, transforming this activity into a true family experience."—Seattle Book Review"I hope some will think of this Sumi-e picture book as a gift to set someone on a path of discovery about Asian art and the history of Asian cultures."—International Examiner

YVONNE PALKA is an award-winning sumi-e artist. A retired college professor, grandmother, artist, and naturalist, she loves introducing children and adults to the wonders of the natural world and the beauty of their own creativity.She loves sumi-e (Asian brush painting) for the simple elegance with which it captures the spirit of nature. Inspired by this simplicity, she teaches children and adults the essence of sumi-e painting in schools and other community settings. The same magic of the heart that gives rise to to her sumi-e paintings gives rise to her dragon stories.

"Like Ed Emberley, the artist offers clear, step-by-step instructions . . . Charming, practical, and a good guide to using a brush to create simple illustrations."—Kirkus Reviews"The details make this Asian brush painting technique so appealing that both children and adults will be tempted to work at it together, transforming this activity into a true family experience."—Seattle Book Review"I hope some will think of this Sumi-e picture book as a gift to set someone on a path of discovery about Asian art and the history of Asian cultures."—International Examiner