Backroom Safari
By Pat Ajello & Illustrated By Angela Kaye
Pages 80 ISBN 978-0-9808971-8-0
In English as paperback ($15.00)
"Backroom Safari is a realistic yet magical story about a kaleidoscope of animals encountered by twin children, Toby and Min, on their imaginary adventure. The story explains the nature and characteristics of each animal and the feelings of the twins as they meet each animal. This educational safari with animals in other lands will intrigue and inform children ages 6-10."
–Patricia S. Whitley, Ph.D., International Educator, Vancouver, BC
"As a former teacher, I was enthralled by the world of creatures imagined by Pat Ajello. Backroom Safari is a perfect book for use across the curriculum–a springboard for geography, science, and, of course, language arts."
–Joanne Atkins, B.Ed.: Special Education Teacher, Vancouver School Board; Faculty of Education, UBC
"Like always, Pat Ajello sends out great messages about our natural world: every animal has its beauty and contributes to the harmony of the wilderness: no matter whether it is the knowledgeable old lion, the proud scavenger turkey vulture, the smart and industrious termite, or the extremely well organized meerkats... Backroom Safari is a true pleasure for all children who want to understand about life."
–Dr. Hongyun Chen M.D., Ph.D.
About the Author
Pat Ajello was born in London, England, and immigrated to Canada in 1960. For several years Pat taught in Vancouver Elementary schools, initially specializing in Art. After taking early retirement, Pat began writing short stories and memoir, and has recently written books for Children. Harmony House, her third book for children, was translated into Chinese by Hongyun Chen and Lihuen Kwan and published in an English/Chinese version in 2007 by CacaNadaDada Press. Backroom Safari is Pat's fourth children's book. Currently Pat convenes a workshop, Writers' Circle, at Brock House Seniors Center.
About the Illustrator
Angela Kaye is an artist and illustrator who, for many years, has enjoyed painting and illustrating books for both adults and children. In the past year, Angela had painted murals in and around Ladner, where she now lives. Earlier, Angela painted backdrops for theatres in Vancouver as well as in other provinces and countries where she lived. Angela has found pleasure in illustrating Pat Ajello's latest educational animal story book.