John Adams

Much of my early childhood was spent on a western Kentucky farm. It was here I learned to love nature, including the nighttime sounds that drifted on the country air through the drafty bedroom windows of the old farmhouse.

I spent many long days in the fields, working alongside my family and workers Dad hired for different seasons. I remember the heat, the sore muscles, the longing for rainy days, and the dirt that never seemed to wear off of my skin. 

I still have fond memories of an old apple tree that refused to give way to old age until I was an adult. It was an incredibly large tree. As a child, I would climb through its branches until I found the perfect apple. 

I always frowned upon the bulldozers that occasionally showed up to level trees on the farm. They cleared the way for more cropland. Each time a tree fell, my father described it as progress. In my adult years, though, I’ve found myself trying to replant those trees everywhere I’ve lived. I think it drives my wife a little crazy when I show up each fall with more trees looking for a new home in our yard. It is true, though, if you plant a tree, wildlife will eventually find it in search of food or a home. 

My most memorable childhood book is Aesop’s Fables, which taught me many life lessons using nature.

My first published book, The Dragonfly Door, was a work of love for children. I’m often moved by the letters and notes that parents, grandparents, teachers, and other people send to me about this story and how it helped someone they know or love. Learn more about what inspired this book. 

Unfortunately, I lost both of my parents to old age and illness before The Dragonfly Door was published. They never saw it or read the manuscript, even though I talked with them often about what I was doing.

I co-founded Feather Rock Books with my wife, Clea, in 2005. We co-authored The Dragonfly Secret. Clea’s gift with words, ideas, and writing were instrumental in creating and shaping The Dragonfly Secret, crafting it into a beautiful story. 

I welcome your comments. You can reach me at customerservice@featherrockbooks.com.