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Painted Thistle Press
Inspirational Stories
Winner of Mom's Choice highest award, the Gold Seal, “The Acorn and the Oak” is the story of a young girl, her mother, and their love of an old oak tree. It is a timeless adventure that takes its readers into the forest and allows them to see all its beauty. The detailed illustrations brought to life with watercolor will forever change the way you see a simple acorn or an oak. Written to inspire all ages, this tale teaches about family, strength and hope. Using the connection that people have with nature, the story reminds us that after we lose something we love, it will forever shape us and remain a part of our lives.
We hope this story means as much to your family as it does to ours.
THE ACORN & THE OAK
About Painted Thistle Press
From a prickly weed growing on cursed land in the Bible, to the beloved flower of Scotland, the thistle is steeped in meaning. It is both a treasured herb and an obnoxious weed. What grabbed our hearts is that it symbolizes protection, diversity, resilience, devotion, strength, and bravery. Each of these traits perfectly reflects our journey and everything that it took to get to where we are now. We believe in finding the hidden stories in the everyday and bringing them to light through our unique creative lens. Together as mother and daughter, we are Painted Thistle Press.
About The Author
Rhonda Accardo
Rhonda Accardo is the author of The Acorn & The Oak. Although she began her college days in journalism, she will tell you that life's journeys will create the best stories. Switching her major to nursing, she began her career as a traveling nurse. Small town America has a history of story telling which is passed down through generations. Although her passion is writing, it is her nursing career that gave her real insight into people's lives.
Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.
Ralph Waldo Emerson
About The Illustrator
Jessica Waterstradt
From dreamy landscapes to engaging portraits to whimsical creatures, you don’t just see it, you feel it. Jessica’s work exudes a warmth, charm, and playfulness that draws the viewer in. Her years of experience both in and out of the studio have definitely left their mark on her art!
A classically trained fine artist and illustrator, Jessica has never had a shortage of inspiration. Whether her own original work or a client project, she excels in capturing the vision and bringing it to life on the page.
When Jessica is not hard at play in her Southeast Michigan studio, she might be found pioneering the wilds, pouring into her passion for writing at a neighborhood coffee shop, or lovingly bantering with her husband Brandon.
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