This lyrical picture book biography of writer and environmentalist Wilma Dykeman traces how her love for a local river led to her efforts to protect it and the livelihood of those who depended on it. Throughout her life she taught that water is the irreplaceable gift; it is life.
 
An accessible introduction to environmental activism for younger readers, introducing them to a woman who deserves to be remembered for her life's work.-Kerri L. Williams / SLJ

The pictures, many double-page spreads, dominated by blues and greens, are enthrallingly fresh. Elevates a conservationist who deserves to be far better known. -Kirkus
Nature and aquatic imagery infuse the flowing lines of this picture book biography of Appalachian writer Wilma Dykeman. -PW
In lines that curve and flow like the river her subject championed, Hitchcock honors a writer and environmentalist....-Booklist
"Shannon Hitchcock's Of Words and Water, gorgeously illustrated by Sophie Page, pays beautiful tribute to the legacy of Wilma Dykeman, an important environmentalist writer. Children and adult readers will be moved to learn more about Ms. Dykeman, whose novels and non-fiction works are regional, but deserving of much wider readership. Reading Of Words and Water reminded me of the times Ms. Dykeman, and later her sons, would carry boxes of her books into our bookstore. I wish I'd known more about her then, and am grateful to Of Words and Water for reminding me of her quiet strength and environmental advocacy." -Linda-Marie Barrett, Executive Director of SIBA, Southern Independent Booksellers Alliance

"I think that Wilma Dykeman would be very pleased with the message of this book. That her life and writing are remembered for her love of water and the importance of the environment would make her smile." Shiela Navarro-Woods, Union Ave. Books.

"Dive into the Inspirational Journey of Wilma Dykeman:
Experience the lyrical beauty of this picture book biography as it unveils the remarkable life of Wilma Dykeman, a writer and environmentalist whose deep connection to a local river ignited her passion for preservation.

Wilma Dykeman's love for the river was more than just admiration; it was a calling to protect it, safeguarding the livelihoods of those who depended on its waters. Her legacy, woven through the pages, emphasizes the irreplaceable gift of water - the essence of life itself.

Join us on a captivating journey through Wilma's life and teachings, where she instilled the profound truth that water is not just a resource; it's the very heartbeat of our existence. Discover the enduring impact of her work and let her message flow through you, reminding us all that water is the irreplaceable gift, and life itself."
 
Contributor Bio(s)
 
 
Shannon Hitchcock was born in North Carolina and grew up in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. She is the author of four middle grade novels, Flying Over Water, One True Way, Ruby Lee & Me, and The Ballad of Jessie Pearl. Her books have been featured on many state award lists and have received acclaimed reviews. This is the fourth book in her storyteller series, along with Saving Granddaddy's Stories, She Sang for the Mountains, and Story Quilts. Shannon currently lives in
North Carolina where she can see the mountains every day.

Sophie Page is a mixed media artist known for her 3D diorama illustrations, expressive pencil drawings, and ceramic products. She graduated from the Rhode Island School of Design illustration program in 2014. To date she has illustrated four children's picture books. In 2016 she co-founded Plum Press with fellow RISD grads while living in NYC. She has published numerous art books with Plum and other small presses, exhibiting at many zine fairs across the US and abroad. In addition to illustration/book work, Sophie runs an online shop, selling art prints and ceramic sculptures.