I am. Alphabet is a children's picture book created by graphic designer, illustrator and copywriter Jane Ries. She has worked in educational publishing, marketing and is currently working in the library field specializing in youth services. The concept for the book comes from the work of Ohio artist, Rick Borg. Rick Borg is a prolific mixed media artist using found objects and paint. Jane welcomed Rick to have his work incorporated into an alphabet book. Jane's familiarity with his work understands that at first impression, Rick's artwork seems simple and child-like. However, they have a visual complexity that can be intriguing and ask the viewer of all ages to spend time with and experience the imagery-an important quality to have in a children's picture book. The goal of which is to look at the book over and over. I am. Alphabet is designed specifically to define letters, teach sounds and connect the sounds to recognizable and sometimes purposely challenging subject matter. The copy is repeated throughout the book as a rhythm that helps the child understand the flow and purpose of the book. Jane sees in Rick's paintings the opportunity to present a book for children that is more than a book, but a gallery of art.
Once upon a time, there was a girl named Jane Ries. She loved drawing and writing so much, she grew up to be a graphic designer. Jane never let go of her inner child and was excited about designing, illustrating, and authoring children's picture books. She created Bully the Pest, a hilarious story about a cowboy tick and Brittany and The Big Stinky Bug, about a girl who finds an unwelcome bug in her garden. One day Jane met a magical artist, Rick Borg. Rick Borg's paintings reminded Jane of books she read as a child. Jane collaborated with Rick to create this book, I am. Alphabet. She hopes you will always remember this book and continue reading books that are enjoyable and memorable.
There once was a boy named Rick Borg. He loved drawing and painting so much, he grew up to be an artist. He had magical artistic powers because he could take paint and things that he found and turn them into animals, people, spaceships and more! Luckily, he never left his childhood imagination behind as his artwork is perfect for the alphabet book, I am. Alphabet. Rick hopes that you learn more than letters, words and pictures. He hopes you will be inspired to do what you love and grow up to be what you want to be.
