Episode 2: Jennie Leavell and Ana Melendez and Sammy’s Story

Art Throb

Until quite recently Jennie Leavell, original owner and publisher of ACE Magazine in Lexington, KY., and Ana Melendez, aged twelve and in the sixth grade at Paris Middle School, Paris, KY., were total strangers.
But, as is so often the case, it was happenstance that placed them together in
what turned out to be a perfect collaboration.
Last year Jennie wrote the children's book "Sammy's Story" completing it in three
days shortly after he had passed away. Sammy was a cat whose life had been
beset with mistreatment and a series of upheavals - that is until he found Jennie.
Even so, he had had a hard time learning to trust and reciprocate affection and
often seemed to end up on the wrong side of luck. This is the story of one tough
cat who lived all his nine lives until the end. It is a story of love, hope and
especially survival and Jennie narrates it in a racy style with nostalgic fondness.
Wanting an illustrator for her story, Jennie went to unusual lengths to find the
right person, employing unconventional methods in her search. Her approach
paid off resulting in an amazing and perfect partnership.
In this episode I talk to Jennie and Ana about Sammy the cat; about being a book
illustrator at aged twelve; and about the unique and specialized printing of this
very limited edition book.
Contact Jennie at [e-mail]