Episode 2: Jennie Leavell and Ana Melendez and Sammy’s Story

Until quite recently Jennie Leavell, original owner and publisher of ACE Magazine in Lexington, KY., and Ana Melendez, aged twelve and in the sixth grade at Paris Middle School, Paris, KY., were total strangers.But, as is so often the case, it was happenstance that placed them together inwhat turned out to be a perfect collaboration.  Last year Jennie wrote the children's book "Sammy's Story" completing it in threedays shortly after he had passed away.  Sammy was a cat whose life had beenbeset with mistreatment and a series of upheavals - that is until he found Jennie. Even so, he had had a hard time learning to trust and reciprocate affection andoften seemed to end up on the wrong side of luck.  This is the story of one toughcat who lived all his nine lives until the end.  It is a story of love, hope andespecially survival and Jennie narrates it in a racy style with nostalgic fondness.  Wanting an illustrator for her story, Jennie went to unusual lengths to find theright person, employing unconventional methods in her search.  Her approachpaid off resulting in an amazing and perfect partnership.In this episode I talk to Jennie and Ana about Sammy the cat; about being a bookillustrator at aged twelve; and about the unique and specialized printing of thisvery limited edition book.Contact Jennie at [email protected] more and to connect with us, visit https://www.artsconnectlex.org/art-throb-podcast.html