SPMS Author Workgroup - Jan 2025

Hello everyone! My name is Lesley Thomas. My author's name is Safari Thomas and I am already a self-published author looking forward to being part of April’s workgroup with my second book.

I am a wild about animals, nature, and our incredible planet. I was born in JRR Tolkien's ‘Middle-earth’, in the U.K., where I found my calling to write after navigating the challenging terrain of a Law Degree (with Honours) to become a lawyer. I have since jumped out of law (semi-retirement) to become a full-time children’s book author. (Still a long way to go!)

My passion lies in empowering kids to connect with the environment and fostering a sense of superhero-like agency in the realm of conservation. My mission is to sprinkle a bit of magic and adventure into the hearts of both young and old 'human folk.' My stories aren't just tales—they're a gateway to building empathy for…

Hello. My name is Jason R. Abdale. I have a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in history, both of which I received at CUNY Queens College in 2008 and 2009 respectively.

I am a professional historian as well as a published writer and artist. My first book "Four Days in September: The Battle of Teutoburg" was originally self-published in 2013, but was later re-published as an updated 2nd Edition by Pen & Sword Books in 2016. My second book is "The Great Illyrian Revolt: Rome's Forgotten War in the Balkans, AD 6-9", also published by Pen & Sword Books, and was released in 2019. I am now transitioning to writing historical fiction.

In addition to my two history books, I also have a web blog "Dinosaurs and Barbarians" where I post articles and artwork concerning paleontology and history.

Kindly check out my pages on Redbubble and Fine Art America…

I am a retired elementary school teacher of 29 years with a Masters in Education and a focus in Reading. I enjoy writing children's books. I love going through the personal editing of my own book before I send it out to the developmental editor. I play with my words until they sing! I love animals and the majority of my characters are personified.