About Us
Mary and Rich Chamberlin love Africa and are excited to share their experiences as travelers, writers, and world citizens. Their first book "Mama Panya's Pancakes" is published by Barefoot Books in the US and UK, and has been licensed across the world (including Spain, France, Brazil, and Korea).A husband and wife writing team living in Naperville, they love to share international stories, play games, and show people that "We Are All One." They've traveled around the world in search of stories - to China, Indonesia, Australia, New Zealand, England, and of course Africa - to Kenya and Tanzania. They also have written, directed, and produced several shadow puppetry shows using authentic Wayang Klitik, Golek, and Chinese leather puppets.
"Mama Panya's Pancakes" is set in Kenya, and is the story of a young mother who barely has enough money to feed her son Adika. He points out that he's one step ahead of her - inviting all their friends to dinner - tonight! How will she be able to feed them all? This story of generosity and community recently won the Oppenheim Toy Portfolio 2006 Gold Award in the Picture Book category.
Mary and Rich have been writing for more than 20 years and over the last five have collaborated on award winning short stories, magazine articles, and educational materials.