C. J. Bartels

The Woodland Animals Collection by C. J. Bartels pairs gentle adventures with richly detailed illustrations, introducing children to familiar creatures they might spot right in their own front yards. From Pip’s upside-down sky to Finn’s mysterious shadow and Tuck’s reflection in a glass door, each story brings curiosity, humor, and friendship to everyday discoveries. Intricate carved-wood borders, whimsical animal activities, and a hidden mouse to find invite children to return again and again. It’s the perfect collection for families who cherish the spirit of bygone days, when stories were simply a chance to wonder, laugh, and enjoy a little time together.

Take a look at the first five spreads of this 40 page book.

The Woodland Animals Collection… and a Scarecrow

(Now available through Barnes & Noble & Ingram Press)

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Finn-and-the-Following-Sky-CJBartels-CI-1080

Kip-and-the-Little-Red-Ball-CJBartels-CI-1080

C. J. Bartels

Author

Author's Story

A first-generation American, Chris has flown helicopters for the United States Army in Korea, Europe, and throughout the Middle East. Since then he has built a house for his family, recorded music that didn’t sell very well, gone fishing with friends that are still friends, and tried a whole lot of other endeavors that didn’t always come out as planned. In fact, Iudicium, his opera that was performed in Bulgaria at the Golden Diana Festival during the spring of 2025, was supposed to be a musical.

Chris lives with his wonderful family in the greatest country in the world.

Look For It...

Little Charlie Teeter had brushed, been tucked, and kissed goodnight. “Now go right to sleep for it’ll soon be daylight.” But his mother knew better, she knew he would peek. Little Charlie Teeter, on the night before Christmas, could never fall asleep. “If your eyes aren’t closed by the time Santa’s here, no telling what he’ll leave under the tree this year.” And although her words still danced in his head, his right eye opened and he slipped from his bed.