Plantation Playground

Frances Johnson, Writer:
“In memory of my beloved sister, Anna Roddey, I dedicated Plantation Playground to her. Years after her passing and after all the tears and grief, I got to thinking about what I could do to make her proud. Something she and I could share. Something so special, something that would send her over the moon, and it came to me. Two of her favorite things; children and dogs. The seed was planted; a children’s book.

For all of my and Les’ married life, 25 plus years, we have lived in an environment filled with ever changing nature and wildlife. Over the years, I had seen our neighbor’s kids grow up and have kids of their own. Their laughter, squeals, and amazement. So, I came up with the idea of a little boy with his furry cohorts roaming around and creating his own little playground. To all the kids, young and old, as Timber (my and Les’ dog) and Pepper (Kay and Allan’s dog, may she Rest In Peace) would say; ‘explore, have fun and always be safe.’”

Keels Swinnie, Illustrator:
“I have done pet portraits for years for Frances and Les. When she came to me with the children’s book idea, I knew it would be a really fun project to work on. I have two little boys myself and read children’s books to them daily.”

Kay Kennedy, Publisher:
“Frances and I have been friends and neighbors for many years. We share a passion for where we live in historical Wachesaw Plantation. The beautiful live oaks and stunning azaleas are surrounded by low country wildlife with breathtaking views of the Intracoastal. Of course, Pepper and Timber play a large part of our porch conversations since they were present for many of them. Pepper was a rescue German Shepherd my husband and I adopted and fell in love with. She and Timber were quick to become Paw Pals. Being in the printing business for over 30 years, I knew this children’s book was the opportunity to expand my printing company to include publishing which was always a personal goal of mine.”

To purchase a copy, visit: www.kandkompany.com/bookstore or by visiting local shops: The Toy Isle, Tweaked, and Keepsakes at Brookgreen. You can find more information on Keels’ website. www.KeelsArt.com.