Local couple publishes children’s book
M.K. French
Farmer Staff Writer
In an impressive fusion of art and storytelling talent, local lawyer Ari Johnson and his wife, artist, Anastasia “Ana” Shinkarenko, have brought to life their first children’s book, “The Missing Toys.” This charming tale is the first entry in what they hope will become a series titled “Yeva’s Adventures,” inspired by their Samoyed dog, Yeva.
The couple’s creative journey began with a whimsical story shared by Yeva’s breeder about her dogs’ toys mysteriously disappearing. Ari’s father, Dennis Edward Johnson, who passed away in 2021, believed this would make a perfect children’s book. With Ana’s artistic talent and Ari’s narrative vision, the couple turned this heartfelt idea into a reality.
“The Missing Toys” follows Yeva as she teams up with her family to solve a mystery, and makes some unexpected friends along the way. Themes of teamwork, honesty, and forgiveness resonate throughout the story, making it accessible to children aged 7-10, while younger readers and dog lovers of all ages will also find joy in the colorful illustrations and playful narrative.
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