Meet the Author of The Talking Baseball

I was born and raised in Syracuse, NY. While in high school and college, I received many awards because of my participation in sports, particularly baseball and basketball. To this day, I love to watch sports events on television and on the field when possible.

I’ve had a full and interesting life, working full time alongside my husband as we raised our two boys. I've always believed that participating in sports helps a child develop a sense of fair play, good manners, and good judgement, all of which can only help them as adults. I’ve watched my own three grandchildren play ball since they were little, and I’ve encouraged them every step of the way.

Now my grandchildren are in high school and doing great. I firmly believe that by fostering their interest in sports I’ve contributed something worthwhile to their future well-being. I hope that The Talking Baseball can help other grandparents encourage their own grandchildren to participate in sports.

—Bette Levine, Author

Meet the Illustrator of The Talking Baseball

I grew up drawing, probably as early as 4 years old, with the help of artistic parents. I grew up wanting to illustrate children’s books and went to Rowan University in southern New Jersey as an illustration major. Shortly before graduating, I gained a strong interest in law enforcement and career goals changed.

I became a police officer in Glassboro, NJ (where I live with my husband) in July of 2000, yet still found a way to utilize my art skills. I have become a Forensic Artist, most recently receiving training at the FBI Academy in Quantico. I jumped at the chance to illustrate a children’s book after all this time and think The Talking Baseball is a great story! I’m very happy how everything turned out!

—Julie Glaser Howery, Illustrator