BY KALISHA MENDONSA
Lacombe Express
Central Alberta’s own Myrna Pearman has penned yet another book - her eighth to date - to share collections of photo essays previously published in a Red Deer newspaper.
The newest book, titled Beauty Everywhere: Nature Photo Essays by Myrna Pearman, is available for sale and will be featured at an official book launch Dec. 4th from 2 - 4 p.m. at the Kerry Wood Nature Centre. The book is available online at myrnapearman.com and in local retailers such as Hanna’s Seed and Peavey Mart Lacombe.
“The process of writing this book was very heartening. I had re-edit my old columns and through that content I was able to relive some of those experiences I hadn’t thought much about since they were published,” Pearman said.
She added the project seemed logical as she wanted a way to collect her old articles, photos and stories to share with friends and family.
“I had written all of these articles and columns and during the summer, people visiting Ellis Bird Farm would tell me how much they enjoyed reading my articles,” she said.
“I’ve been told my articles have been sent by them to family all over the world and friends of friends, so I figured it would make sense to have everything in one place with a book.”
Pearman worked hard to keep her original copy and ideas without much alteration. She said she was just happy to add in a few more photos and keep the original text that had been in such high demand.
The author says she is pleased with the response she has received so far, and that there are many retailers in Central Alberta happy to provide a shelf for Beauty Everywhere.
To coincide with her book release, Pearman decided to take the leap to a bigger online presence with a web site launch, www.myrnapearman.com.
“I’d rather be outside with my camera than be on the computer,” she said, laughing.
“That said, I am enjoying the blog. It’s all new content. I really enjoy nature adventures, but also really enjoy sharing the photos and columns on the blog, and will likely save some of that for future columns and printed pieces.”
She said she is very happily surprised by the heavy traffic to her new site, as it indicates an interest in her passions. She said she’s glad to see people enjoying her nature adventures with her.
Currently, Pearman is working to prepare for a wave of public presentations to follow the official launch on Dec. 4th.
“After the Backyard Bird Feeding book came out, I had lots of requests to talk about that, but now I’m getting more requests to talk about my photos and nature essay stories. I’m excited about putting some more presentations together and sharing my passions with a broader audience,” she said.
“I think this book is perfect for people with a more general interest in photography and nature.”
She said she is hoping to present to nature clubs or organizations, photography clubs, naturalists, libraries and other kinds of social groups to help spread the word on how to see beauty in the world around us.
“I think this book is going to be fun for people, because it teaches them about nature and seeing beauty everywhere,” Pearman said.
With previous publications, such as Backyard Bird Feeding, the proceeds of sales had gone to supporting an education programming fund at Ellis Bird Farm. Pearman explained she’s always been happy and willing to do this, but her most recent book will remain a private sale.
“This book is my own project. I don’t plan to generate great wealth or anything from it but that’s exciting for me - to have my very own project,” she said.
The book is available in numerous book retailers, as well as online through Pearman’s new web site. She will be available at the Nature Centre to discuss her most recent achievement and to sign copies for readers.
kmendonsa@lacombeexpress.com