Guardians of the Jicarilla Mustangs: Barb Kiipper Speaks from the Range

 

Guardians of the Jicarilla Mustangs: Barb Kiipper Speaks from the Range

By Gina McKnight

Archived from the March 2026 Issue of Florida Equine Athlete

No duplication without permission.
 
Out on the high desert range of northern New Mexico, where the wind carries stories older than fences and the land still remembers the thunder of wild hooves, you’ll find Barb Kiipper doing the work of a true guardian.
 
Through the Jicarilla Mustang Heritage Alliance, she has dedicated herself to preserving the spirit, history, and future of the Jicarilla Mustangs—horses whose resilience mirrors the rugged beauty of the landscape they call home.

In this conversation, Barb speaks candidly about the horses who shaped her, the challenges facing America’s wild herds, and the deep, quiet bond that forms when you choose to meet a Mustang on its own terms. Her insights come not from theory, but from years spent listening—to the land, to the horses, and to the stories that unfold when we slow down long enough to witness them.
 
Welcome, Barb!
 
GM: Barb, it’s so nice to meet you. I enjoy following you on social media. When did you meet your first horse?
BK: I am sure I was born screaming I want a horse. I got my first horse when I was eight years old, an older part Mustang-cross. He taught me how to stay on and ride. We herded cattle, ran barrels, and had a lot of fun. I then got the passion for showing horses and training. Spending over 20 years showing, training, and ultimately breeding Quarter horses. During this time, I attended a few BLM [Bureau of Land Management] wild horse adoptions and was intrigued. I promised myself I would adopt when I retired. I retired in 2008 and adopted my first Mustang in 2009, a Carson Forest Jicarilla Black Mustang - I am very partial to black horses. He showed me a side of horses I had never seen, which led me to get involved with the BLM and USFS [US Forest Service]. I became an advocate for the Mustangs and went back to training and gentling the wild ones in my 60s.

My Non-Profit started in 2012 and has helped over 120 wild ones find quality life in our world. Now we focus on fertility control, so less and pray zero will be removed. They need to be preserved on their land.
 
GM: For people who have never met a wild horse up close, how would you describe the spirit or presence that makes mustangs so unique?
BK: In the wild, I love the snort of stallions, the tenderness of the mares and foals, how they watch you and sum you up in one heartbeat. It's really about watching family life as you envision the bands interacting and the lead stallion and boss mare handling situations. Knowing they settled America and have a rich heritage, to me, makes watching them free and wild is what God intended.
 
GM: Your advocacy blends hands‑on care with public education. What part of that work energizes you the most?
BK: I think knowing that your work to tame and prepare the Mustangs with a solid foundation of basic skills to handle domestic life is very rewarding. The first touch, first halter, first step to lead brings smiles and joy to my soul. When they get truly great homes, it’s the greatest high!
 
GM: What are some of the biggest misconceptions you encounter about wild horses and their place on the landscape?
BK: The never-ending battle with ranchers over cattle and Mustangs. The horse spreads good seeds across the landscape, but cattle do not! Horses contribute to a healthy ecosystem, reduce fire risk, and improve habitat for all wildlife. They earned the right to be on the land! The more data that comes in to prove that these horses are native species, sadly, will never give them the rights and protection they deserve and need. Mustangs make incredible partners, able to do many levels of performance work to ranch work. It's how they're trained that makes the success. Getting people to understand that is exhausting.
 
GM: You’ve seen mustangs in both wild and managed settings. How does witnessing their natural behavior shape the way you approach training, gentling, or rehoming?
BK: They deserve to be treated with respect, and how they feel or think must be understood and part of building trust. Without trust, you will never have a safe partner. Making the connection with them is paramount to taming them. Witness their fear and gain their trust before you try to halter them. Too many people break their spirit or push them till they give in. But what happens when they don’t give in? They are proud, protect that spirit, and you will have amazing animals that bond with you and give you their heart in so many ways.
 
GM: What does a “typical day” look like for you—if such a thing exists—when you’re working with the Mustangs?
BK: LOL. There is no typical day. But a day can be a mix of sad and happy: accepting donations, fundraising, listening to stories from successful adopters and their happiness with their Mustangs, or to one who must rehome their Mustang for many reasons. Cleaning pens and feeding animals for the pure joy of the smell and presence of a horse.
 
GM: Advocacy can be emotionally heavy work. What helps you stay grounded and hopeful when the challenges feel overwhelming?
BK: I sit with my herd, get hugs, talk to God, and seek my own heart. What to do and how to proceed will eventually show. I breathe the love from the horse, get hugs and kisses from those sloppy noses. Lots of reflections and conversations with myself and my herd.
 
GM: If you could help the general public understand just one thing about America’s wild horses, what would it be?
BK: That they are precious and we humans must do better by them. They are the icons of America, and since the 1971 Wild Horse and Burro Act, we have failed them; they are not safe! They have given to humans forever; we must give back and ensure their preservation.
 
GM: Looking ahead, what dreams or long‑term goals do you have for the Jicarilla Mustangs and the future of your advocacy?
BK: Before I run out of energy, I will ensure they are safe for future generations to enjoy. My biggest dream has always been to create a sanctuary to protect the precious DNA of our wild horses. We keep the fire burning under these dreams and pray for the right person to come along and be part of this legacy, protecting wild ones before they are gone!
 
GM: What does horsemanship mean to you?
BK: Horsemanship has evolved from my childhood time, from making them do it to using science, to a kinder, more understanding way of thinking. It's lifelong learning, always focused on giving the horse a chance to learn, figure it out, and know that each horse is different; no single method does it all. A true horseman listens, seeks to understand, and finds ways to be a real leader, not a boss. Create a partnership with the horse built on trust, not fear. Drop the ego, gimmicks, and crazy devices, and speak from your heart; put the horse first, build trust and connection, and all else comes into line
 
Connect with Barb…
https://www.jicarillamustangs.org/
New Book: Why a Mustang? Lessons Learned Adopting and Training Mustangs by Barb Kiipper and Michele Bell

Barb writes, "...because I have titanium in so many joints, I have to use a walker and a scooter for training. Walking is not fun for very long. We have trainers to whom we send horses, and we continue to rehome mustangs. I teach them to lead or spend time with my herd as much as I can."

Note: Jicarilla Mustangs originate from the Jicarilla Apache Nation region of northern New Mexico. The name is tied to place, people, and lineage, not a specific horse breed. Historically they roam in the high desert and forested areas of the region. Just like Pryor Mountain Mustangs or Sand Wash Basin Mustangs, the “Jicarilla” name identifies the specific wild herd management area and the landscape that shaped them. The horses in this area descend from Spanish‑type horses that integrated into the wild populations centuries ago. Over time, the herd developed its own distinct look, temperament, and survival traits tied to the Jicarilla environment. The Jicarilla Apache people have a long relationship with horses, and the mustangs of this region carry that cultural and historical resonance.

Royal Lipizzans: An Interview with Rebecca McCullough

 

Argentos, Lipizzan, and Rebecca
Herrmann's Royal Lipazzans
Myakka City, Florida USA

Royal Lipizzans: An Interview with Rebecca McCullough

By Gina McKnight

Archived from the February 2026 Issue of Florida Equine Athlete.

No Duplication Without Permission.

 

Meet Rebecca McCullough, the only granddaughter of Colonel Ottomar Herrmann Jr., founder of Herrmann’s Royal Lipizzan Stallions in Myakka City, Florida. As a fourth‑generation horse trainer and performer, Rebecca has spent her life preserving and sharing her family’s extraordinary Lipizzan legacy.

Her deep connection with these rare, intelligent horses has shaped not only her work in the arena but also her writing. Inspired by years of living and training alongside them, she now brings their remarkable abilities and personalities to the page.

In this interview, Rebecca opens the gate to her world — the heritage she carries, the horses who shaped her, and the passion behind her storytelling.

Welcome, Rebecca!

GM: Growing up as the only granddaughter of Colonel Ottomar Herrmann Jr., what do you remember about meeting your first horse and how did that moment shape everything that came after?

RM: My first horse was actually a pony and since I was an only child, he quickly became my best friend. I spent every day with him while I was little. I didn't get my first horse until I was about 10 or so.

 
GM: As a fourth‑generation trainer and performer, what does a typical day in your life look like on the farm, and how much of it still feels connected to your family’s traditions?
RM: A typical day is busy. My daughter and I live on the farm so we wake up and go down to the barn to take care of the horses and they're the last thing we see before going back to the house for the evening. We literally live and breathe our horses here, which is the way we were raised going back to my great grandfather.
 
GM: You’ve lived your whole life surrounded by Lipizzans. What is it about their qualities as a breed that keeps you inspired year after year?
RM: The Lipizzan is one of the most intelligent horses in the world. They are also calm, patient, and compassionate. Our horses are our family and that's what keeps us going year after year.
 
GM: Your family’s farm in Myakka City is such a historic place. How does it feel to carry on that family legacy and welcome new audiences into it?
RM: Since Florida is such an agricultural state, family legacies are very important to us, especially in the rural area where our farm is located. I thoroughly enjoy sharing not only the history of our farm and our horses, but the pride we have in carrying on this tradition for so many generations.
 
GM: Every horse person has that one partner they click with. Who would you say is your go‑to horse, and what makes your bond with them special?
RM: Unfortunately, I lost my heart horse a little over a year ago. I had him for over 23 years and then lost him to cancer. He and I were so in tune with each other that I didn't even have to speak and he knew what I wanted completely by body language. Since then it has been difficult for me to connect strongly to any of our horses. It will take time to find that special connection again.
 
GM: Rebecca, condolences for the loss of your beloved horse. A difficult time and hope you find that special connection again very soon. Your shows blend education and entertainment. How do you think about showmanship so it stays fun while still honoring the Lipizzans’ classical roots?
RM: Any performer will tell you it's showmanship that sells whatever you are promoting. Fortunately for us the Lipizzan is such a diverse and athletic breed, we can showcase everything from their floating lateral dressage to their use as war horses. We also showcase the origins of the Lipizzan, which allow us to delve into both the Arabian and Andalusian breeds. This is very important for us in Florida because Florida was settled by Spain, so I weave both the Lipizzan history with the Spanish history of where we live. At almost every performance a guest will compliment our historical information.
 
GM: You’ve trained horses at every stage. How do you adjust your approach when working with a young Lipizzan versus one performing the airs above the ground?
RM: A young horse requires a lot more patience and guidance, whereas a fully trained horse already knows what's happening the moment their tack goes on. The easiest analogy would be a new hire versus an old hand. New hire's are going to make mistakes and so we just have to guide them through it; old hands are so good at what they do, they will train the rider on where to be.
 
GM: Your grandfather built the foundation for the farm’s classical training. How do you balance staying true to that traditional training philosophy while also making room for your own voice?
RM: Actually, that isn't very hard at all. My grandfather was all about history and how the horse was used. While he did focus primarily on dressage and we are more about the diversity of how the Lipizzan evolved, the classical dressage he employed is the foundation for the war maneuvers and weapon use we demonstrate, so it all ties together.
 
GM: You've written books about your horses. What inspired you to start writing about their stories and what do you hope readers feel when they read your work?
RM: My books are inspired by the intelligence and compassion of the Lipizzan, as well as their willingness to accept new experiences. From what people have told me, they thoroughly enjoy the books and look forward to reading more. For those guests who have visited the farm over the years, many of them recognize which horses are in the books and they readily agree with the characteristics they display.
 
GM: As the next generation steward of the farm, what excites you most about the future of the Lipizzans and where the legacy is headed?
RM: I think the Lipizzan is well on its way to becoming more prominent in the US. We've already seen more and more of them being used in competitive dressage, but here on the farm, we're showing people that the Lipizzan is a very user-friendly breed and should be considered as  an everyday trail or companion horse. They are so smart and versatile, they can be used for almost every equine activity. I believe that by making the breed more approachable, we'll be seeing more and more people purchasing and breeding these rare horses thereby ensuring the breed's continuing growth and success. These are all things my daughter also cares deeply about so I'm certain we will always have Lipizzans here.
 
GM: What does horsemanship mean to you?
RM: To me horsemanship is a respect for the horse as a partner, not a pet. Since we live and breathe our horses here and view them as family, that is how we train. Just as you have to be a parent to your child, we have to be "parents" to our horses. To me that means we have to guide our horses by teaching and setting boundaries, but doing so with respect for their intelligence and individuality. Not every horse can do everything, and to be a good trainer you have to approach every horse as a unique individual and highlight their very own talents. Every horse on the farm is different and all of them have their own personalities. The trick is figuring out how to treat each and every one. 
 
Connect with Rebecca…
https://www.herrmannsroyallipizzans.com/
Facebook: Herrmanns Royal Lipizzan Stallions
 
Booksby Rebecca:
The Light of Dark Things
Planet of Equus

Jagger head crop, Jagger 3/4 Lipizzan, 1/4 Andulusian, and a fan favorite.

Damascus Rear Crop is Damascus, our Arabian, and Rebecca

Achilles Garrocha crop is Achilles, our, half Andalusian, half Lipizzan,
with my daughter Sydney McCullough 

Myakka, Lipizzan, and Rebecca

Aragorn Rebecca Bow is Aragorn< Lipizzan, and Rebecca

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Milliron Monday: Jody's Journals August 1986

 

Abbott "Pete" Smith D.V.M.:  

June 16, 1938 - February 22, 2010

Virginia Joyann "Jody" Haley Smith: 

April 2, 1938 - May 9, 2021

Welcome to Milliron Monday where every Monday we celebrate 

the legacy of Milliron Farm and Clinic, 

Dr. Pete and Jody Smith.

Jody's Journals: 1986

August

• to barn/clinic, ran errands > Margie Jenkins, Pam Collier, lunch > Rick Bowen, Pete gigged frogs, used canoe
• to barn/clinic > led Speed over railroad ties, rode in woods/ring Windy Hills, led him over conduits, still refused riding > with Pete on calls to Pomeroy
• barn/clinic > to Bowens', took oatmeal cake
• haymeadow, ewe ran into me, blinded by flashlight > to church, OU Inn > to clinic, Bob Mathews stopped by, read paper, napped > caught horses, rode Speed, picked few blackberries, most dried up, saw groundhog, deer, fawn down by white gate, lovely > Pete and I went to Pam's to watch taped Alan Ladd movie/pizza
• took Phillips saddle down to Russ for repair, stopped by river to drink soda, man gave me change in $2 bills
• to clinic > county fair, M. Jenkins dog show > Frank Johnson shod horses
• to Mohican > used Leroy D.'s truck to haul horses (Apple, Speed)
• Pete, Bud Strauss judged Endurance Race, Sylvia and I rode trails
• rode Speed on Competitive Trail Ride, placed 4th heavyweight, used Pete's Western saddle, couldn't reach both stirrups at once, miserable; Sylvia placed 5th, rain/cold/wet
• unpacked truck, to clinic/barn
• Dave Smith brought McClellan saddle by clinic > watched TV movie on Thoroughbreds 
• to clinic/barn > showed ribbons to M. Jenkins > hobbled Speed, ran around, fell to knees twice; rode Speed Western saddle, saw 3 deer near pond in cliff pasture; tailed him up hill
• State Fair, watched driving classes, etc., talked to Judy S. Whitney
• went after saddle at Russ' > tired > Pete work in woods
• to Church > to clinic, mended saddle pad, oiled saddle, etc., rode Speed, Pete rode Apple with Shoemaker King bit around thru Ed L.'s, up stream, talked to J. Eddy, lost lead rope
• rode Speed, looked for lead rope > wen to Columbus with Pam/shopping, Polar Bear Party/zoo/fundraiser > Pete and I O'Hooley's, harp, bagpipes; I got speeding ticket on way home
• went after nails for barn, Amish here, Subaru overheated, took Doris in for new tires, overheated
• to clinic, rode Speed, had lost right front shoe, left loose > Pete to Sam's Gym, on call to Hartley's
• rode Speed, went on calls with Pete to Newt Humphrey's, Bob Evans
• rode Speed, Pete rode Apple, walked, saw some fawns, beautiful cool morning > to Church > to clinic > Ohio River, Mike Cunningham and wife's boat, very pretty, walked around Blennerhassett, saw baby skunks, about a dozen deer, very tired when we got home
• to clinic/barn, rode Speed, saw strange bird above Wagner's > wrote letters
• to clinic, Amish, Pete worked on barn > rain, sounded good on bamboo 
• to clinic, ran clinic errands > to Pam's, Hilary K. 
• rode Speed, to clinic > picked peppermint
• rode Speed, to clinic > party Robin, Dan's chili
• to clinic > to Church > Dairy Barn > rode Speed over to Windy Hills, went over rails on ground; party for Jerry, new Tennessee Walker, swimming > Steve Shingler brought stallion in > went back to Windy Hills, movie "Alien" - yuk.

For Exclusive Photos Follow on Facebook @ Milliron Clinic

Connect with Gina:

Amazon Author Page

Milliron: The Biography

www.gmcknight.com

www.mondaycreekpublishing.com 

Hocking Hills Book Fair   

Hocking Hills Book Fair Author Podcast

Through captivating, powerful, and emotional anecdotes, we celebrate the life of Dr. Abbott P. Smith. His biography takes the reader from smiles to laughter to empathy and tears. Dr. Smith gave us compelling lessons learned from animals; the role animals play in the human condition, the joy of loving an animal, and the awe of their spirituality. A tender and profound look into the life of a skilled veterinarian. 

The Author Mommy: An interview with Chandler R. Williamson

 

www.theauthormommy.com

The Author Mommy: An interview with Chandler R. Williamson

There’s a special kind of magic that happens when creativity and motherhood meet, messy, joyful, unpredictable, and deeply human. Few people capture that magic quite like Chandler R. Williamson, the writer and creative force behind The Author Mommy. Through her books, her art, and her candid reflections on family life, she invites readers into a world where imagination is nurtured in the middle of everyday chaos, and where storytelling becomes a way to stay grounded, inspired, and connected.

Williamson brings a voice that feels both familiar and refreshing to the literary stage. Today, she talks about her writing, motherhood, inspiration, and the beautiful balancing act that fuels her work.

Welcome, Chandler!

 
GM: Many parents struggle to carve out time for their own passions. How did your writing routine evolve while raising your family, and what strategies helped you protect your creative space?
CW: I usually have to write either first thing in the morning or afternoon. I often will go on drives and listen to either my own audiobooks or music to help me brainstorm ideas for my books. 
 
GM: Your stories often carry a sense of warmth, humor, and resilience. How do your children influence the tone or themes of your writing?
CW: They really haven't because I've been writing these stories long before they came along. They are an incredible source of encouragement and they love my characters, too, even if they aren't necessarily old enough to listen/read them for themselves. 
 
GM: You’re also a painter, guitarist, and archer—creative in so many directions. How do these other outlets feed or shape your writing voice?
CW: My favorite medium is graphite and pastel drawings, actually. I've always loved drawing pictures of my characters to help me envision them easier and more clearly. My other talents often make it into my characters, example Brock from the Beyond Tyral Series is a talented archer, Will from Convicted is an artist, etc. 
 
GM: What do you hope fellow parents, especially mothers, feel when they read your books? Is there a message you hope stays with them long after they close the book?
CW: My hope for my readers is that they know they're never alone in struggles with mental health and abusive relationships. My biggest dream as a writer is to make my readers feel like I and my characters get them on a level no one else has before. And to make them laugh along the way. 
 
GM: Your earlier work, The Holiday Spirit, has a very different vibe. How has your writing evolved between that book and your more recent projects?
CW: This is a good question! I've definitely improved in my writing, especially character building. The original antagonist, Wren, was the typical, mustache twirling bad guy who talked WAY too much! He's now more menacing and secretive like you'd expect from the Spirit of All Hallows Eve. My writing comes easier to me than it did back then, if I can turn off my inner editor. I'm much more experienced with crafting characters to be lovable and realistic with flaws and conflict that are much less artificial feeling than before. Keep in mind, however, that I've had most of my stories and characters around for the better part of 20 years. My next book's concept and characters were formed in 2006.
 
GM: You’ve built a strong connection with readers through grassroots promotion and community engagement. What has surprised you most about the way your audience responds to your work?
CW: I love connecting with people in person at artisan markets and book signings! Honestly, on the positive side, I've had people come back worth tears in their eyes to tell me how impactful my story was in their life. That was a dream come true for me and exactly the reaction I want from readers. On the more negative side, people often assume that "romance" means "smut." I usually get one of two responses when I say that I write romance. *elevator eyes* "So you're THAT kind of writer." Or, "That's great!! Good luck!" as they proceed to walk away with a large, insincere grin. Most of the response is positive, but because of that, I've started specifying that my romance will never be "spicy" and I write sweet romance. 
 
GM: Living near the Rocky Mountains gives you a stunning backdrop. Does the landscape influence your creativity or the emotional texture of your stories?
CW: I LOVE going on drives through the forested areas of mountains! But most of my stories take place in places and environments in not as familiar with. My writing sessions often begin with describing the environment around me that's universally understood and can make the reader feel the wind, smell an ocean or pine trees, or see birds leaping from tree branches.
 
GM: What challenges have you faced balancing author life with family life, and how have those challenges shaped your identity as a writer?
CW: Honestly, I haven't found the perfect balance and it's something I'm still figuring out. I think my biggest lesson has been that writing isn't just sitting at a computer or writing with a pen and notebook. It's the moments of brainstorming with my husband on how to improve my characters and stories. It's the songs I listen to. It's the moments of random inspiration I get while driving my kids to Grandma's or tidying my home. 
 
GM: Looking ahead, what stories or themes are calling to you now? Are there new genres, formats, or audiences you’re excited to explore next?
CW: I'm delving into a contemporary light fantasy with my next book, The Tides Between Us. My son has also requested I write the children's book I created as a kid because he wants to know what happens. And I'm always excited to revisit old characters for the remainder of the Beyond Tyral Series. Maybe there's wedding bells in the future for Ellie and Erick. ;)
 
Connect with Chandler…
www.theauthormommy.com

Facebook The Author Mommy

Milliron Monday: Jody's Journals July 1986

 

Abbott "Pete" Smith D.V.M.:  

June 16, 1938 - February 22, 2010

Virginia Joyann "Jody" Haley Smith: 

April 2, 1938 - May 9, 2021

Welcome to Milliron Monday where every Monday we celebrate 

the legacy of Milliron Farm and Clinic, 

Dr. Pete and Jody Smith.

Jody's Journals: 1986

July

• Pete, saws > picked up Pam A., to concert in Athens
• washed Junie, took Pam on brief cart ride, drove Junie up to M.A. Morrison's, Roberts', son's birthday party, gave rides
• to clinic, paid some bills > Pete, I left for Mansfield, BBQ dinner, Snow Trails Ski Lodge, mom left early
• Mom left for North Carolina, Pete to Gary's, stopped at Dawe's Abortorium, Newark, drove home on 13 > rode Speed, stopped at Jan/David Crall, Pete rode Apple > to movies 
• picked up Ann, went to see "Ruthless People", Pete came in late 
• ran errands, donated blood/Red Cross > picked up Pam, took Puff, left car at SoOhio, Pam went to grocery store with me
• to clinic, paid bills
• to clinic/barn > Pete to woods, new horse broke leg > to CJs, late supper
• Steven K. here about taking sheep, gave Pete pocketknife > to church, OU Inn > to clinic, rode Speed, Apple > movies
• to clinic > to Pat's, choice of wedding pictures
• to barn/clinic > took Pam to Columbus, shopped > Pat brought blackberries
• Pat, Pete, Allen here for lunch > to clinic/barn > Pete to Sam's Gym > horse, recovery stall
• work at desk briefly > to clinic > fed at Pat's > ran errands
• to clinic/barn > fed at Pat's > watched Alan Ladd movie > Pete, Hidden Valley > CJs dinner, fireworks
• early ride, picked berries, to church, OU Inn > to clinic/barn > Jerry Sylvia Boyd's dinner, boat ride Burr Oak
• up early, dewormed sheep, Pat helped > watched animal programs with Pam > to clinic, mashed rt. thumb in drawer in embryo room, went on calls with Pete > went to Jim/Ann Hoon's pond party, volleyball, etc.
• to clinic/barn > helped Jill look for cat lost in clinic > picked up Ann, Jerry, Rax and movie
• to clinic/barn > called Pete's dad, birthday > rode Speed, Mary Ann Morrison Roberts rode Junie, picked blackberries, rode at Windy Hills
• to clinic/barn > picked up Margie Jenkins, watched movie at Pam's > to clinic with Pete, caught black cat in surgery room
• to clinic, ran errands, Margie Jenkins, Pam Collier, O'Hooley's > Rick Bowen > Pete gigged frogs, used canoe

For Exclusive Photos Follow on Facebook @ Milliron Clinic

Connect with Gina:

Amazon Author Page

Milliron: The Biography

www.gmcknight.com

www.mondaycreekpublishing.com 

Hocking Hills Book Fair   

Hocking Hills Book Fair Author Podcast

Through captivating, powerful, and emotional anecdotes, we celebrate the life of Dr. Abbott P. Smith. His biography takes the reader from smiles to laughter to empathy and tears. Dr. Smith gave us compelling lessons learned from animals; the role animals play in the human condition, the joy of loving an animal, and the awe of their spirituality. A tender and profound look into the life of a skilled veterinarian. 

Writing Children's Lit: An interview with Patricia L.H. Black

 

Writing Children's Lit: An interview with Patricia L.H. Black

A few years ago, I had the pleasure of meeting Patricia L.H. Black during a poetry workshop led by Wendy McVicker at Stuart’s Opera House in Nelsonville, Ohio. Patricia is an active member of a poetry group that gathers weekly at the Athens Public Library. Her poetry stands out for its whimsical nature and prolific output, weaving her extensive knowledge of literary arts into every line she writes.

Patricia had an idea for a children’s book Twillaby Pond. We collaborated and, with the help of Ohio artist Deborah Hayhurst, Twillaby Pond became an award-winning, Readers’ Favorite 5-Star title. With the release of Lilyfield Bog in 2025, Patricia continues to show her flexible writing skills, creating new creatures who live in extraordinary places.

Welcome, Patricia!

GM: What inspired the magical setting of Lilyfield Bog, was it a real place, a dream, or something else altogether?

PLHB: I wanted to loosely tie the story to Twillaby Pond. There is a boggy area of Lake Hope in Southeast Ohio that is absolutely stuffed with water lilies every summer. It looks like a field because it’s almost impossible to see the water. I’m sure that was much in my mind when I was searching for a place name.

GM: Can you tell us about the very first spark that led to this story? Was it a character, a moment, a mood?  

PLHB: It was the booloop. He had been much in my mind – swooning at the thought of lopaloo pie and berrybud jelly, falling out of trees he was unwise enough to climb. He needed a story to rein him in.

GM: Lilyfield has such a cozy, mysterious vibe. Did you imagine it more as a place to explore or a place to get lost in?

PLHB: I drew somewhat on Twillaby Pond though those characters were definitely exploring and the booloop knew where he was going (if he could get there).

GM: Which character surprised you the most while writing – someone who changed or grew in unexpected ways?

PLHB: The bodacious frog. He has been around in my mind for longer than the booloop and I assumed he’d just push his way into the center of the story. But he wisely sat quietly on his log and let the booloop and the fox tear right on past him.

GM: What kinds of readers do you hope will find Lilyfield Bog? Is there a particular age you had in mind?

PLHB: I hope for a child (or the adult reading the book to a child) who can build mental images of the characters and actions in the book. Or maybe I hope the book might spark such thoughts in a child.

GM: Did you read any favorite children’s books while writing this one, for inspiration, comfort, or nostalgia?

PLHB: Not really. I was aware of Twillaby Pond, of course, but with this one I just went along as the story unfolded. I read many, many books as a child. I read every book Albert Payson Terhune wrote in the Lad of Sunnybank series; I read Nancy Drew and Hardy Boys mysteries, I read the Sugar Creek Gang books. I looked into adult books (being the child of reading parents). Our parents really didn’t put any restrictions on what we read. And their response if we ran up against a word we didn’t know was, “Look it up in the dictionary and then you’ll remember it for the rest of your life.”

GM: What one scene in the book makes you smile every time you think about it? 

PLHB: That silly booloop falling out of trees he didn’t have enough sense to stay out of.

GM: If Lilyfield Bog had a soundtrack what kind of music would play in the background?

PLHB: I have no idea, other than a “Ta DAH!” sound as the sun comes up at the beginning of the book. One or other of my nieces or nephews might have an answer but my forte is with words, not notes.

GM: Are you working on anything new right now, maybe something that shares a thread with Lilyfield Bog?

PLHB: No much at the moment. The mental door is open to the loquacious old frog though it seems more likely to be his grandchild, “a polliwog – that’s a tadpole, a wee baby frog” but that’s as far as it has gotten. I’ve been working more seriously on a memoire/episodes of my life/collection of poems/observations/short fiction/the occasional recipe – a concatenation.

GM: What’s one piece of advice you’d give to young readers who dream of writing their own stories someday?

PLHB: Read, read, read! Read anything and everything that can’t outrun you – books, magazines, poetry, sports articles, owner’s manuals, whatever. And listen to the words, to what they mean and how they sound. They sing and growl and crackle and pop. Look up the word onomatopoeia and have fun with it!