About
Inspiration
Author Jayme Sandberg unexpectedly fell in love with total solar eclipses when one appeared in her backyard in 2017. She started the day wondering at crowds of tourists who had flocked to her rural town. She ended the day wanting to join them to chase the next total solar eclipse.
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In those brief minutes during totality, Jayme came up with the full storyline for a picture book to help young children like hers learn about the eclipse and enjoy the unusual experience safely.
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Before people understood the science behind total solar eclipses and could predict them, they were frightened by them. Folklore told of sacrifices and the Moon eating the Sun. Jayme saw totality a different way: With a little help from a friend, we can shine in ways we never imagined.
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About the Author
Jayme Sandberg unexpectedly fell in love with total solar eclipses when one appeared in her Nebraska backyard in 2017. After chasing a pre-schooler around with eclipse glasses that day while 8-months pregnant, she made it her mission to help parents and educators simultaneously teach their kids about safely viewing this amazing celestial event while also celebrating the unexpected ways we shine together. Jayme has two elementary-age daughters who waver between wanting to be a storyteller like their mom and a military pilot like their dad.
About the Illustrator
Kathleen Gadeken is the illustrator of five children's books including “Total Solar Eclipse: A Stellar Friendship Story.” Giving visual life to captivating stories thrills her. Kathleen is also the creative force behind The ColoringBookArtist.com where she turns personal tales into illustrated treasures. She spends her time in Southeast Nebraska writing, drawing, painting, and playing. Her grandkids, who are often her first and most influential critique group, are the ones who inspire her love of art and storytelling.