http://vmt.org/our_story/Dash_..._Queen_of_Steam.html

Announcing Dash Dupree and the Queen of Steam

the story of an unlikely friendship between a boy and a train that blossoms into a magical, life-changing journey for them both

Trains delight readers—young and old—and no train is more captivating than the N&W J 611! The Virginia Museum of Transportation has commissioned a storybook for children that celebrates 611—the Queen of Steam—and her thrilling return to the rails in Spring 2015.

The 32-page storybook will be exquisitely illustrated in full color, featuring not only the engine you love, but you—or someone you choose to honor—can also be a part of the illustrations!

Men and women, boys and girls of any age can be pictured: what a perfect way to honor an older relative or friend who inspired your love of 611, or to excite your children or grandchildren with the magic of trains! Your donation of $300 per honored person will underwrite production costs, making this charming book possible. Our donors will receive:

• two complimentary copies of the book, signed and personalized by the author and illustrator, noting the location of the honored person’s likeness
• the joy of sharing their love of 611 with thousands of children in this and future generations
• the tax deductible portion of your gift is $262.

Individuals will be included in groupings that illustrate the action in the book. Faces will be approximately 3/4 inch in diameter. The original illustrations will be painted in oil on paper for the greatest richness in color.

Our artist will begin the illustrations in early January, so reserve your spot now, by January 20! This opportunity is limited to the first 50 book donors.

The Museum’s creative team is widely acclaimed:

• Nancy Ruth Patterson, an award-winning children’s novelist, will provide creative direction. Her five novels for young readers, including The Christmas Cup and The Shiniest Rock of All, have been honored on reading lists in ten states.
• Alice Standish, who will author the book, will graduate from the Hollins University Children’s Literature Graduate Program in May before beginning her studies in Children’s Literature at the University of Cambridge.
• Ann Glover will illustrate the book with lush, full-color illustrations. She is a well-known Roanoke artist whose work has been featured in The New Yorker and Atlantic Monthly as well as in museums and private collections throughout the country.

Signed copies of the book are anticipated in the VMT Museum Store and its online store in May 2015. The original illustrations will be available for purchase on a first-come, first-served basis after the book is published.

To participate, please mail your check, the attached form, and at least one photo of the individual to
Dash Dupree
Virginia Museum of Transportation
303 Norfolk Ave SW
Roanoke, VA 24016

Or, you may pay online and email the photo(s) and the form to Fran Ferguson.

Please send one to three head shots; a full body shot is optional. Good lighting and clarity of the honored person’s features are essential. If you are sending black and white photos, please indicate hair and eye color, and skin tone. Please send copies, not originals, and label each image with your name and the subject’s name. If you would like your photos returned, please include a stamped, self-addressed envelope.

Questions? Contact Fran Ferguson, Director of Development, at 540-342-5670 ext 105 or fferguson@vmt.org for more information.