AUTHOR Helen H. Kimbrough is from Athens, Georgia and is a graduate of Hampton University. Her background and experience consists of marketing, sales, and human resources. However, her greatest achievements are her roles as a mother, wife, daughter, sister, motivator, friend, and now author. In recent years, Helen has dedicated her time and commitment to her children and to literacy initiatives. In her first multicultural children's book, Ocean Waves and Other Tales, and in her newly released book, Play Dates and Other Tales, Helens' sons are the inspirers. To make fun and interesting stories, Helen added musical melodies so that her children would enjoy reading and learning. Helen is passionate about reading and hopes all children are enriched through these classic musical stories. Currently, Helen resides in Charlotte, North Carolina with her husband and sons. ILLUSTRATOR Lena Shiffman was born and raised in Sweden, a country rich in storytelling. She attended Spectrum Institute of Commercial Art, the Parsons School of Design, and the Art Students League. Lena is a member of the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI). Her first book was Keeping a Christmas Secret written by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor. It received a Christopher award in 1989. Since then, she has illustrated several picture books and magazines. Currently, Lena lives in Flemington, New Jersey with her husband, daughter, and their cat, Delilah. Musician D.J. Boyd is a native of Whitmire, South Carolina. His passion for music began at an early age and flourished throughout his high school and college years. D.J. is a 2003 graduate of Winthrop University with a Bachelor of Arts in Music. His affiliations include the American Choral Directors Association, the Calvin Institute of Worship, the Gospel Music Workshop of America, and the Charlotte Children's Choir. Currently, D.J. resides in Charlotte, North Carolina where he is the Assistant Director of Music and Arts at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church.