Thomas J PenistenAuthor Thomas J. Penisten has always had a passion for writing, especially when it makes one think long after the book is closed. Thomas believes a good story is one that sends a positive message and evokes emotion and reflection. He hopes his reader will relate to the story and recognize the importance of feeling gratitude, joy, and living in the present, and have their own feelings validated. Thomas tries to capture emotion when illustrating by drawing on the outlooks as he remembers as a child and also the challenges and losses everyone faces throughout their lives. While Thomas has always loved the arts and writing, having attended the Metropolitan School of Art where he studied the classics, it seemed he never had the time. His family are very supportive that he is finally pursuing what he loves. His wife, Landa, in particular, has been instrumental in his editing and publishing process. He was also inspired by the goodness of his late sister, Chrissy, a schoolteacher who was kind to all. A kid at heart, when he isn't busy writing thought-provoking books, Thomas enjoys hiking, camping, snowmobiling, ATVing, and bicycle riding with his wife. He has two daughters, one son and two grand daughters. They live in Platteville, Wisconsin, with their Boston Terrier Winston. Read More Read Less