by Melissa Vocelka
Oh Mighty Mississippi, a creative and beautifully illustrated children’s picture book, is Melissa Vocelka’s first book to come out in print. The book follows the mighty Mississippi River, and the plants and creatures it encounters on its long journey towards the sea. Featuring many of Minnesota’s state symbols, such as the Common Loon, the Pink and White Lady Slipper, the Walleye, and more, the book is not only entertaining, but educational as well. Oh Mighty Mississippi was inspired by a young child’s wonder and fascination of the Mississippi Headwaters at Itasca State Park, and is a great book for children, tourists, those who love art, those who love nature, and those who love Minnesota!
Melissa Vocelka was born and raised in Minnesota. Writing has been a part of her life for as long as she can remember. In 2010, Melissa graduated from Rainy River Community College in International Falls, MN, with an Associate of Arts Degree. Soon after, she graduated with honors from Ashworth College in Atlanta, Georgia with a professional Career Diploma in Writing Children's Books. Melissa currently resides in Saint Cloud, Minnesota, with her husband, John, and daughter, Rebekah. Oh Mighty Mississippi was inspired by her young daughter’s wonder at the Mississippi Headwaters at Itasca State Park. Melissa plans to continue writing and to publish many more children’s books.
ILLUSTRATOR BIOGRAPHY
Amy Larson was born and raised in Oak Park, Illinois. Ever fascinated by color and form, painting has always been a part of her life. After receiving a BS degree in Art Education at Illinois State University, Amy moved to Minneapolis, MN, where she and her husband raised their four children. Amy currently resides near Park Rapids, MN. Her art can be found in many homes and galleries across the country. Amy Larson’s paintings represent her view of the world around her, and her emotional response to what she sees is the focal point of each painting. Amy has won many awards and commendations for her work.
WEBSITE
www.melissavocelka.com
PURCHASE
BLOG
http://melissavocelka.com/Oh-Mighty-Mississippi-Express.html
PUBLISHER
North Star Press
http://ourbooks.myshopify.com/
REVIEWS
Oh Mighty Mississippi is a creative and beautifully written story that will fascinate children and nature enthusiasts alike. The artwork is beautiful and Melissa has written it in such a way that you can almost imagine yourself winding along with the Mississippi River on each and every page. I loved how she incorporated many of Minnesota's state symbols into the book, making it not only entertaining, but educational as well. I can't wait to get a copy when it comes out in print! - Joan, Grandmother
Knowing Melissa personally, I was honored to preview a draft of this wonderful book. I am a librarian who has a weakness for illustrated books about Minnesota and this one takes my breath away. Waiting for my published copy has been unbearable but the anticipation will be worth it! -Stephanie, Librarian
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