Pat Banks – illustratör

Richly illustrated and easily accessible, Appalachian Plants draws on centuries of botanical, cultural, and spiritual connections to the land as it invites readers of all ages into the vibrant world of southern Appalachia. Featuring regional staples such as ramps, tobacco, pawpaw, mountain mint, and white pine alongside more recent horticultural additions like rhubarb, persimmons, and sugar maples, the book presents a layered portrait of Appalachian flora. While author Linda Hager Pack provides scientific names and physical characteristics of each plant, her work goes beyond botany as each entry is enlivened with Native American legends, traditional folk remedies, historic recipes, and Appalachian lore that reveal the deeply rooted significance of plants in this storied region.The book honors the long history of plant use among the Cherokee and other Native American peoples of Appalachia, who developed sophisticated systems of herbal medicine, seasonal harvesting, and spiritual practices. From white pine salves to pawpaw fruit tonics, their knowledge shaped generations of land stewardship and ecological understanding. Additionally, European settlers brought seeds, farming practices, and folk beliefs from their home countries as well, adapting Old World crops and customs to mountain life. Meanwhile, African American enslaved people, servants, and free men and women also contributed a wealth of agricultural knowledge and medicinal plant traditions, immeasurably influencing the evolution of Appalachian foodways and herbal practices.This blending of traditions created a rich ethnobotanical legacy, one rooted in survival, community, and respect for the natural world. Featuring beautiful watercolor illustrations by Pat Banks and supported by instructional resources, this book serves both as a unique field guide and a cultural history of Appalachia. It invites readers to explore not just the uses of plants, but the stories they carry—across generations, geographies, and peoples—within the living landscape of Appalachia.

A is for Appalachia is a treasured alphabet book for children. The book introduces young readers to letters while providing an endearing look at the traditions, history, and life of Appalachia, a region with one of the oldest and most unique folk cultures in the United States. This is a book filled with a diverse array of beautifully illustrated folk tales, ghost stories, recipes, Jack Tales, expressions, happenings, and music that excites the imagination of people of all ages. Adults and children alike are shown a remarkable legacy particular to Appalachia, but one that also truly transcends cultures.

From the author and the illustrator of A is for Appalachia! The Alphabet Book of Appalachian Heritage comes a beautiful new book that will delight readers of all ages. Appalachian Toys and Games from A to Z celebrates a time when fun was powered by imagination and creativity rather than by batteries and electricity. From apple dolls (carefully molded from summer apples) to whimmydiddles (whirligig toys carved from sticks gathered in the forest), children will be inspired by a world of interesting nineteenth-century activities and toys while they learn about Appalachian heritage and the ABCs. Author Linda Hager Pack interweaves detailed descriptions of these entertainments with anecdotes, songs, and folktales. Pat Banks's vibrant watercolors bring these cherished pastimes to life.This book will inform and inspire young readers and will remind adults of simpler times when they played outside with siblings and friends, making their own fun. Nostalgic and lavishly illustrated, Appalachian Toys and Games from A to Z is a great read for anyone interested in the region's rich history and culture.