One day, as Amanda sits practising her cello, a restless wind swoops inside her instrument. From that moment on, all sorts of unusual musical things occur as the wind directs Amanda's music-making.

But then, Amanda begins to outgrow her little cello . . .

Stories and music have been important in Alison Lohans's life since early childhood. With parents who loved telling stories and singing at bedtime, and always a stash of library books on hand, how could Alison not be drawn in?

The Wind and Amanda's Cello is Alison's thirty-first book, and came from a whimsical "What if?" idea. Her publications range from picture books and early-reader chapter books to novels for middle-graders and young adults. She has won awards for her work and has given more than a thousand readings in schools and libraries across Canada. Alison has taught writing, and she's taught music as well.Starting piano at age five, she could read simple music before she could read words.

When Alison's younger son, Chris, started cello lessons, she got hooked, too! She's active in local music groups, playing recorder, cornet and cello, singing in her church choir, and once again taking piano lessons. She also loves to travel.

Alison Lohans lives in Regina, Saskatchewan with her furry friends Sebastian and Sassy and two budgies. Visit Alison online at alisonlohans.wordpress.com or on Facebook @alisonlohanswriter.

Alison Lohans' profile page

Sarah Shortliffe is an artist, mother, and military wife born and raised in the Maritimes. She has been creating art since she was young and went on to get a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts and a Master’s degree in Art Conservation. Her goal is to transport the viewer to a fanciful and whimsical place. She wants to make the viewer smile and loves the bright colours she gets from watercolours.

Sarah Shortliffe's profile page

"Every page of this simple tale was a delight. I was carried along by the whimsical story and the childlike wonder of the illustrations." - Jayne Bernard, Author

"This book made me reconsider how kids experience music - they have a whimsical sort of wonder we sometimes lose as adults, and that is worth remembering (especially for those of us who teach music). Overall, a rich experience! I'll be recommending this one"-Alanna Vane, Author