Thank You, Mr. Brown, and Merry Christmas

New children’s book is about life in Lamont

Monday, April 20, 2009 12:19 PM CDT
OELWEIN - Retired West Delaware teacher, William "Bill" Green, and Dave Prehm, New Hampton art instructor never envisioned they would team up to produce their first children's book entitled "Thank you, Mr. Brown, and Merry Christmas."

The story was written by Green and illustrated by Prehm. Both men are longtime friends and previously taught at Britt, in the early 80's --- Green at the elementary and Prehm at the high school.

The author and illustrator will be showcasing their new release at the Oelwein Public Library on Tuesday evening April 28 from 5 - 7 p.m. The public is invited to attend.

The book is a nostalgic look back at a simpler time when Christmas was celebrated in public schools. The book revolves around the community of Lamont, the author's hometown.
The two main characters in the story, Mr. Brown and Nancy, are fictional, but the others mentioned in the story may be recognized or remembered by area residents.

An excerpt follows:

"Even though it was ages ago, I could still remember all those who touched my life there. Janitor George, the cooks- Mrs. Helms, Mrs. Scovel, and Nellie Richmond - Harvey my bus driver, and Mrs. Sage, my fourth grade teacher. I also thought fondly of Mr. Brown, who helped me for several years with my reading and math."

Green says he actually wrote the story as a gift for his family, but it became much more than that when friends and acquaintances encouraged him to publish the book.

In this fully illustrated storybook…Nancy and Mr. Brown formed an everlasting bond at Lamont Elementary. Nancy shares some Christmas time memories and something special that she learned from her teacher, Mr. Brown, that even he wasn’t aware of. That “special” something was that life’s lessons don’t always come from text books, but from simple acts of kindness and caring.

"The book may serve to motivate a struggling student, inspire a teacher, or just serve as a reminder to all of us that life's lessons don't always come from text books, but from simple acts of kindness and caring," commented Green.

Green also stated that the illustrations really enhance the book. "What's a children's book without illustrations? Dave did a terrific job and really got into the project. Each illustration is truly a work of art and we have sold prints as well as the book itself." Green went on to say, " I could have had the publishing company provide the illustrations, but I knew Dave could do the job if he had the time. Plus, he is a great artist, friend, role model and promoter."

"Thank you, Mr .Brown, and Merry Christmas", is "geared" toward elementary students, but has adult appeal as well. The book is available at many local libraries and on-line shoppers can find the book at Amazon.com and GreenStreetGifts.com.

According to Green significant sales have occurred on-line despite the fact the book is set during the Christmas season. Green also states: "The great part about this book is the fact that many in Iowa and in the Midwest readily relate to it. What's even greater is that ordinary people we all know, like those mentioned in the book can have an extraordinary impact on those they interact with."

If you would like more information about the book, the author and the illustrator, go to http://www.greenstreetgifts.com/. You may also send email to service@greenstreetgifts.com or call (563) 920 6037.

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FYI: Lamont is a part of what is now the Starmont Community School District. (STrawberry Point, Arlington, Lamont)

I saw this article in the online version of my hometown paper (Oelwein Daily Register) the other day. When you think of an author's book tour to promote his/her latest effort, you don't think of Iowa, & especially small town Iowa. & definitely not Oelwein. But then, it isn't every day that a book that focuses on the real heart of the state, the small farm communities that are the building blocks of Iowa, is written. No, I haven't had a chance to read the book yet, but I am looking forward to being able to do so.