About the Authors and Artist

Kathleen Backman, B.A.

Kathleen has lived in Plumas County, California since 1994.   She is a mural artist and art teacher. She attended Concordia Lutheran University in Portland, Oregon, where she studied Early-childhood Education and Art She completed her studies in Sociology at Chico State University, California. She and her family enjoy the many recreational sports in the area including hiking, fly-fishing, and golfing which has been the inspiration for Backman creating the stories and illustrations for Bear and friends adventures.

Mary Lou “Dink” Rife, B.S., M.A.

“Dink” has lived in Plumas County, California since 1964. She is a retired school teacher and counselor. She worked with all grade levels in the schools, including community college. She has enjoyed many years of recreation in the area. Many of her “treasured” activities include hiking, biking, tennis, skiing, and golf. “Dink” believes it is important to have a lesson, a moral, or a positive message in all children‛s books.