Nancy Grachek Hodges has taken some of her experiences as a preschool teacher, used them to write a children’s book and is promoting the book in the area.
“Pig Pal and Cow” uses barnyard animals to talk about fear of new situations and the problems of fitting in and making new friends.
She credits friend and fellow teacher, PJay Boeving, with the idea of the character Pig Pal.
“We always call each other ‘pal’,” Grachek Hodges said. “And she came up with the pig.”
The story starts when a small gray spotted pig arrives at Cozy Lane Farm. She squeals with delight but then is frightened when the other animals laugh at the sound of her snort.
How her new friend, Cow, helps her adjust will help children navigate the newness of change, said Grachek Hodges.
“PJay and I have been pals for many years and decided to create a children’s book with lessons to learn and a message that conveys what happens when we listen to our friends with love,” she said.
The character Farmer Dan in the book is based on Daniel Scally of Belleville, who helps with school-age children tours at Braeutigam Orchards in Belleville.
Farmer Dan in “Pig Pal and Cow” is based on Daniel Scally of Belleville.
Grachek Hodges, of Belleville, retired after a career teaching at Presbyterian Community Preschool. Boeving teaches at Mother’s Day Out Preschool.
The illustrator is Paul D. Turnbaugh from Wisconsin.
The two women have been touring with the book, visiting schools and were part of a local artist book signing at Belleville Books in May.
“Pig Pal and Cow” co-authors Nancy Grachek Hodges and PJay Boeving (seated) with Belleville Books owner Rob Eckman
Grachek Hodges said they have been thrilled with the enthusiastic reception the book has gotten.
The pair are working on another book for the holiday season. Called, “Pig Pal and Cow’s Christmas at Cozy Lane Farm,” it should be out in November.
“Pig Pal and Cow” is available from Amazon and Belleville Books.