John Muir and Stickeen: an Alaskan Adventure

By Elizabeth Koehler-Pentacoff

Illustrated by Karl Swanson

John Muir and Stickeen an Alaskan Adventure by Elizabeth Koehler-Pentacoff Illustratged by karl Swanson Book Cover

( from the book's dust jacket )

John Muir and Stickeen: An Alaskan Adventure
by Elizabeth Koehler-Pentacoff - Illustrated by Karl Swanson
Grades K-3

Writer and naturalist John Muir is best known for the many years he spent exploring the Yosemite Valley. but he was a true explorer and enjoyed adventures in many different kinds of challenging environments. this story is about a special day that he recorded in his journal, the day that he designated as his most favorite adventure of all.

Muir traveled to Alaska in 1880 with his friend the reverend Samuel Young and Young's dog, Stickeen. One morning Muir and Stickeen set off to explore a glacier, and found themselves in danger. Larger-than-life Muir handles the crises as they occur, but little Stickeen manages to match him one for one.

Artist Karl Swanson's delicate yet powerful acrylic and colored-pencil illustrations perfectly capture the personality of Muir, the courage of Stickeen, and the incredible beauty and hostility of the Alaskan wilderness.

About the Author

Elizabeth Koehler-Pentacoff's other books include the ABC's of Writing for Children; Louise the One and Only; Wish Magic; Help! My Life is Going to the Dogs; Why Did Lincoln Grow a Beard? Incredible Facts About Each U.S. President; Curtain Call; and Explorers. She is Byline Magazine's "Writing for Children" columnist and teaches educators through California State University, Hayward. She also gives presentations at elementary schools and teacher and writer conferences.

A native of Wisconsin, Liz lives near the John Muir National Historic Site in Northern California, with her husband, son, and Yorkshire terrier named Zoie.

About the Artist

Karl Swanson has produced artwork for advertising and has illustrated the covers for many adult paperback and hardcover books. his children's book credits include the illustrations for Carver and When Grandpa Kissed his Elbow.

Trained in New York at the Art Students League, Swanson and his wife now live in North Carolina.

The Millbrook Press
2 Old New Milford Road
Brookfield, CT 06804

See Annotation in Children's Books section of Annotated John Muir Bibliography.

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