Tarja Helena NevalaTarja Nevala was born in Finland and raised on three continents. She has lived in Finland, Australia, Canada, and the USA. Her colorful life and rich heritage have developed her style as a children's picture book writer, while a wide range of persona interests add depth to her stories. Tarja writes of real-life situations with humor, imagination, and delightful surprise. Within Tarja's childhood home, old family stories were shared, celebrated, and retold countless times. The ancient art of oral storytelling was alive and contributed to her love of telling tales. She believes a child begins their journey into the world of literacy by hearing a spoken language. Oral story telling is an important part of this journey, and children's picture books contribute in a big way. Tarja is happy her books can be a part of a child's learning and reading experience. Tarja gives a big "thank you" to her large family and many friends who encourage her to write. She extends a special "thank you" to one certain English teacher in college, who suggested Tarja create stories. The Pacific Inland Northwest in the USA is Tarja's home. She loves anything cinnamon and everything caramel. She loves to bake, tend her garden, and take long walks. Her most favorite walk was the Camino de Santiago (The Way of the Stars), a 500-mile ancient pilgrim route from the French side of the Pyrenees Mountains to the city of Santiago in northwest Spain. Being genuinely "you" is important to Tarja. She celebrates all the children of our amazing world and wishes to tell them tales that delight their ears, hearts, and minds. Read More Read Less