Clarkston, MI, September 27, 2006 -- Michigan children’s author Barbara L. Johns revisits a place close to her heart in "Christmas at the Candle Factory" ($16.95, Steeple Ridge Publications), the second book from her Candle Factory Collection. The title, a full color picture storybook for children ages 3-8, was released for sale on September 15. It is available in bookstores everywhere as well as online at steepleridgepress.com, amazon.com, and barnesandnoble.com.

Johns will sign the holiday book, as well as her first title, "The Cat in the Candle Factory," on October 5,6, and 7 at Marian High School’s Calico Craft Show, 7225 Lahser Road in Bloomfield Hills.

“In this new title, the author revisits the Davisburg Candle Factory and its heroine, Midnight the cat, to weave a magical, holiday tale of candle making and kitten mischief.” says Cindi Thompson, reviewer and Media Specialist from Milan, Michigan. “Readers will delight in the exploits of Elvis, the kitten, and his exasperated mentor… who does her best to make the intricate holiday candles despite the antics of Elvis. This creative tale is destined to be a Christmas classic.”

Johns has again collaborated with veteran illustrator Carolyn R. Stich (a resident of Holland, Michigan) to bring the candle factory and its cats to life in lively colored pencil drawings. Stich is noted for her attention to detail, her whimsical approach, and her skillful reproduction of the candle factory setting.

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