Kelly Cathleen, began drawing as soon as she could hold a pencil. She created what became the cover of The Story of Orange when she was eight years old. Several years later, she was asked to illustrate the book. She taught preschool as a young adult until she became seriously ill. Her art has been important in her recovery and she creates when she is able. She is the author-illustrator of a limited edition Kel-A-Gram series, which has been well received:

Reader response to her work:

"...the power of The Story of Orange illustrations is their simplicity and childlike style. They serve as inspiration to children about their own abilities in a profound way. Most children's books have incredible illustrations but children don't come away with the 'I can do that' feeling. Kelly not only gives marvelous characters but conveys to readers an underlying motivation to explore their own creativity. Children are captivated by Orange. Some of the best art I have seen in my classroom came after reading The Story Of Orange."

Renee Strong, 2nd grade teacher

";…her Kel-a-gram collection is astonishing in its abundance and variety of styles and comments. Her originality and poetic statements gave me much pleasure…"

Robert Strassburg, Dr. F.A.
Professor Emeritus
California State University, LA, Music Department