Author Mary E. Ciesa grew up in the neighborhood surrounding Stan Hywet Manor House, the historic Seiberling Mansion, in Akron, Ohio. As a child, she had the magical experience of taking ballet les...view moreAuthor Mary E. Ciesa grew up in the neighborhood surrounding Stan Hywet Manor House, the historic Seiberling Mansion, in Akron, Ohio. As a child, she had the magical experience of taking ballet lessons in the mansion.Now a member of SCBWI (Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators) a Nurse Practitioner, and a
Zumba® Instructor Mary still believes in the power of hope.
Illustrator Ann Gosser is a professional freelance artist specializing in illustrating, mural painting, and fabric art. As a classical ballet dancer, she and her mother gave ballet lessons to area children at the Stan Hywet Manor House. The illustrations depict her fond memories of the ballerinas of Stan Hywet, one being the author, Mary Ciesa!view less