Mary Newell DePalma is the author and illustrator of four children’s books: "The Strange Egg," a whimsical tale of wonder, curiosity, and friendship; A Grand Old Tree, a simple and beautiful tale about life itself; The Nutcracker Doll, about a child’s role in the Boston Ballet Nutcracker; and "The Perfect Gift," an adventure starring a generous little lorikeet and her friends. She has also illustrated more than a dozen books for other authors. Mary lives in Boston Massachusetts. For more info, see www.marynewelldepalma.com