About the Author

Inspired by her grandson, Alaric, during a memorable summer adventure, Kathy Johansen brings a warm blend of heart, humor, and nostalgia to her fictional stories. A dedicated school teacher with more than 20 years of experience at Cherrydale Primary School in Steilacoom, Washington, Kathy has touched countless lives through her passion for education and storytelling. Outside the classroom, she cherishes spending time with her family and volunteering at the Steilacoom Historical Museum, where she shares her love for history and community-teaching kids to knit. Kathy’s life is a testament to the power of connection, creativity, and finding inspiration in life’s most treasured moments.

About the Illustrator

Illustrator and artist Katie Howard, a former second-grade student of Kathy’s, lends her artistic talents to bring this story to life. Katie is based in the Pacific Northwest and works primarily in oil paint, watercolor, and yarn

About the Series: The Sock Peddlers™

The Sock Peddlers™ is a series of children’s books chronicling the adventures of grandparents,  Grammy and Papa. Several years ago, Kathy and Roger Johansen's journey began with traditional knitting needles, teaching people of all ages to knit by hand. Their discovery of an antique circular sock machine sparked a new passion for creating notions faster and with more joy. This led to their adventure as The Sock Peddlers™, where they combined their love of knitting, history, and community into a cozy yarn shop in Lakewood, Washington.  Although Kathy and Roger closed the shop's doors in 2020, she was inspired to keep its magic alive. Kathy embarked on a new journey, creating a much-loved children’s book series, The Sock Peddlers™. Her first book, Sock Peddler  Surprises: Fish On!, shares stories, knitting, and community in an entirely new way!