KELLY DARMOFAL holds a Masters Degree in Special Education and has been educating students for many years. Holidays with a Tail: A Tale of Winter Celebrations is her fourth publication. She met illustrator Brad Calhoun when they both taught at Summit School in Winston-Salem. Kelly's memoir Lost in My Mind: Recovering from Traumatic Brain Injury explains her interest in educating students with varied needs as well as all students excited to learn.Kelly currently teaches at Jefferson Elementary School which is one of the most culturally diverse schools in its district, representing over 50 countries and cultures. Kelly remarks: "I decided to write the book I needed but didn't have! Students who are Hindu, Jewish, African American, Arabic and Latin American clearly need a picture book to explain and depict the highlights of their holidays. My students and I love the variety of colors, celebratory foods, and lights that tie such holidays together."BRAD CALHOUN is an art teacher at Summit School in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. When he was growing up, Brad wanted to be an astronaut. He still enjoys studying Astronomy and Science, and he uses those subjects as a venue for creative inspiration and a chance to dream of the unknown. Brad has a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Metal Design from East Carolina University, School of Art. Hegrew up on a farm and says he learned many life lessons through hard work. "I enjoy helping children explore, experiment and create art," Brad says.
