Traverse City native signs book deal

SAVANNAH, GA (02/29/2012)(readMedia)-- Brianne Farley, Traverse City native and 2002 graduate of Traverse City Central High School, has signed a deal with Candlewick Press for the publication of her children's book, "Ike's Incredible Ink." Through simple illustrations and colorful prose, "Ike's Incredible Ink" tells the story of Ike, a frustrated writer suffering from writer's block. He assumes he must be using the wrong ink and goes on an adventure to gather ingredients and make an ink recipe unlike any other.

"When I got the call from Candlewick, I was literally jumping up and down on the bed as my agent tried to explain the details of the deal to me," said Farley. "I feel extraordinarily fortunate. It was my 'someday' dream and somehow 'someday' is right now."

Farley took art classes at Traverse City Central High, which spurred her interest in drawing.  She began this book while pursuing her master's degree in illustration at the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). "My professor helped me refine my ideas and keep things simple," she said. "He expected me to come to class with quite a bit done, which helped me to keep moving forward and keep the illustrations fresh."

It was through a chance encounter that Farley was able to get her book in front of the right people. "Toward the end of the quarter, SCAD brought children's book author/illustrator Peter Brown in to speak," said Farley. "After his lecture he dropped by the studio where I happened to be working on 'Ink.' He encouraged me to send the book to his literary agent. It was through that agent, that my book found a home."

"Ike's Incredible Ink" is scheduled to be released Summer 2013.