Late one evening, many years ago . . .

I found myself standing on a rock in the middle of a stream, gazing into the yellow, glowing eyes of a huge black bear.

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The next afternoon, I awoke from a dream on that same rock—yes, in those days, I napped on rocks.

With an open heart and a trembling soul, I wove that dream into this fairy tale.

 

At the invitation of my friend Charles Schulz, the creator of Peanuts,

I attended the Santa Barbara Writers Conference and read Fairies Aglow in a workshop.

The response was enthusiastic.

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As I was leaving, Schulz’s son, Monte, a talented author and literary lyricist, challenged me to transform

Fairies Aglow into a rhythmic poem. I embraced the challenge and did it!

 

Before tucking my revised manuscript away for more than a couple of decades,

I sought an endorsement from my friend Bob Kane, the creator of Batman.

His support and kindness are something I cherish deeply.

 

During this time, I also had the privilege of working with Arun and Sunanda Gandhi,

organizing events to further the works of Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

I am honored to have received Mr. Gandhi’s praise for Fairies Aglow.

 

Finding the right illustrator was another journey in itself, and I was fortunate to discover the talented Chiffon Lark.​

Her exquisite illustrations bring the perfect magic to Fairies Aglow.

 

In the midst of the pandemic, I faced a significant health challenge that brought me to the brink of this life.

I made a vow. If I survived, I would prioritize my creative pursuits.

Publishing Fairies Aglow was at the top of that list.

 

I am deeply grateful for the endorsements and encouragement from friends throughout this journey,

including those who have since passed on from this earthly realm.

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My heartfelt thanks go to Bob Kane; Arun and Sunanda Gandhi; Malidoma and Ruta Somé;

Charles Schulz, Monte Schulz, and his sons, John Henry and Wesley;

Jean Houston, Joan Borysenko, Carlos Nichols, Rebecca Avery,

Bonnie Bright, David Blackmore, and Jessica Shea.

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I am eternally grateful to my sons, Jared Swanson and Ryan Swanson,

whose presence in my life is my most cherished blessing.

 

My heartfelt thanks to everyone who helped bring Fairies Aglow to life,

and to you, dear reader, I hope you've enjoyed the journey!​

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With much love,

Dr. G.