ABOUT THE AUTHOR: KATHY JOHANSEN

Kathy Johansen brings a warm blend of heart, humor, and nostalgia to her fictional stories.

Kathy and her husband, Roger, once owned The Sock Peddlers, a charming knitting shop in Lakewood, Washington. With over twenty years of teaching experience, Kathy inspires creativity, wonder, and connection in her classroom.  These values shine through in every page of her storytelling.

ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR: JIM ANDERSON

Jim Anderson adds his unique creative style and broad artistic experience to the second book in the Sock Peddler Surprises series. Originally from Martinez, California, he served 24 years in the U.S. Army before being medically retired in 2017. A lifelong artist, he has explored woodworking, glassblowing, stained glass, painting, drawing, and architectural drafting, using creativity to help manage chronic pain and PTSD. Inspired by astronomy, nature, and music, his award‑winning work has earned national and state recognition, including Master Woodworking Artist of the Year and top honors at the National Veterans Creative Arts Competition and the Washington State Fair.

Jim lives in Steilacoom, Washington, with his wife and two daughters. He is an active community volunteer with the Steilacoom Historical Museum Association and the Steilacoom Community Center, and he is the founder of Uncle Don’s Ukulele Club.

About the Series: The Sock Peddlers™

The Sock Peddlers™ is a series of children’s books chronicling the adventures of grandparents,  Grammy and Papa. Her first book in the series debuted in 2025!  Book 2, The Labyrinth!,  will be published later in 2026.