It is a joy to be asked to try to create the first visuals for a character brought to life in poem form by another artist. Above, in the early stages, is a pastel drawing of Mary Elizabeth Arwady's character, Boots McGee.Boots McGee is a great little cat, born with only one eye with which he joyously sees only the good in life, "no eye for the bad". His missing eye spot is dapperly covered with an eye patch, which makes him appear distinguished and somewhat jaunty. As captain of his very own boat (do you suppose its a cat-amaran?) Boots sails the fresh and salt waters of these great United States. As he travels, Boots meets other characters who, like him, experience some sort of minor malady in life which is quickly overcome, proving to young readers that personal strength is not gained by being perfect. Together Boots and his many animal friends visit wonderful places and they share warm and engaging and comical experiences in their many adventures.
Mary Elizabeth Arwady has created an endearing character in Boots McGee and has amassed an amazing batch of magical stories. It is my pleasure to work with her for a time, creating visual images for her many charming poems in the series,
THE TALES OF BOOTS MCGEE
