I don’t remember my kindergarten teacher. My memories of kindergarten are few, actually: there was nap time, sometimes we played outside, and I seem to recall eating cookies. But that’s about it.
On the other hand, children’s book author Nancy Hazelwood, who grew up in Almonte and went to Naismith Public School, remembers her kindergarten teacher extremely well — and quite fondly.
Mrs. Young was her name. Mrs. Jane Young.
“I was terrified when I started kindergarten,” Hazelwood says; she grew up in a very strict religious family. “I had already been taught to fear the world, especially those who seemed nice — ‘a wolf in sheep’s clothing,’ as my father would say. But when I met Mrs. Young, I was mesmerized,” she says. “I was captivated by her big hoop earrings, bright red lipstick, and beautiful and stylish clothes — all things I had been forbidden. I adored her. She was so gentle, kind and loving.”
It was Mrs. Young’s kind and gentle nature that made Hazelwood realize not everyone was to be feared.
“Raised in a strict religious sect, I was taught to fear anyone outside of it,” Hazelwood recalls. “Mrs. Young was the first woman beyond those boundaries with whom I was able to spend time without my parents. Her warmth, kindness and vibrancy left an unforgettable mark on me. To me, she was proof that the world outside my upbringing was not only safe, but beautiful. She sparked my curiosity and courage to imagine life beyond the religion.”
When Hazelwood’s children’s book, Exploring is NOT for Me!, was published last November, the author — who writes under the pseudonym Nancy Jean — happily dedicated the book to her beloved kindergarten teacher: Her “# 1 champion since kindergarten!”
The book tells the thoroughly charming tale of George and Gemma, two chihuahuas who go on a weekend camping trip with their Mumzie. George, who loves the comfort of cozy blankets at home, isn’t happy about any of this, while Gemma, always ready for adventure, is super excited. They meet a motley crew of animals in the mountains, and George even takes part in a scavenger hunt. The prize is a tent full of treats! Surely even the most homesick doggie would give in. George does.
“They both have fun but opposing personalities,” Hazelwood explains. “George is very particular about everything. He prefers to stay indoors; he likes soft blankets, relaxing music, and home-cooked meals. Gemma is full of energy, ready to tackle any adventure with the biggest smile on her face. She encourages George in the funniest ways with her bossy personality.”
“The idea for book one grew from my camping trips in the mountains,” she adds. “George did not like any part of camping — none of it. Gemma absolutely loved every aspect of it — the insects, the campfires, sleeping in a camper, exploring the wilderness — all of it. I wanted this series to help kids understand how there are different perspectives in one experience. Kids love picking one character to cheer on as they are reading the book. It’s relatable for kids and adults.”
Does George eventually have some fun? Well, I won’t spoil it for you. But adventures of the two chihuahuas are sure to delight children with lots of laughs, plenty of heart, and maybe a lesson or two learned along the way. The book is beautifully, vividly illustrated by Lucy Shin.
Hazelwood was able to share both the story and the dedication with Mrs. Young.
“I began my career as an elementary teacher and later became a principal,” Hazelwood says. “Then, just as the pandemic arrived, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. Saying goodbye to my students — first due to the pandemic and then my illness — was heartbreaking. Around this time, I reconnected with Jane. We were both in cancer treatment. She followed along as I developed my characters and story for this book. Although she passed away before its publication, she followed my journey closely,” says Hazelwood. “I miss her dearly.”
As for George and Gemma, they aren’t just fictional characters. No, they are both quite real, and, judging by their photos, rather adorable.
“My two chihuahuas became my daily comfort through surgery and cancer treatment,” Hazelwood explains. “The pandemic was a lonely experience, but I found comfort in Georgie Mazda and Gemma Lucy. They would wait at the window each day for me to return from my treatments. Unable to return to work, I started writing about them to share with others the joy they were bringing me. They were the inspiration for a children’s book series.”
The next book in that series, Decorating is NOT for Me!, will be out in December. It can be pre-ordered now at The Book Nook in Perth and Treasures ‘n’ More in Carleton Place, or at the author’s website: georgeandgemma.com.
Hazelwood’s love for storytelling began in her childhood. She was inspired by a woman known by many of our readers, many artists and creatives, a woman whose love for art was pure and contagious.
“Noreen Young was our next-door neighbour,” Hazelwood recollects. “We rented her barn and some land for farming. Sometimes, she would come out when I was working and invite me to her home for some lemonade (I think she felt bad that we were kids and working so much). I was not allowed to go in, but now and then I would sneak over anyway. She gave me a tour of her home and all her puppets. She had so many! Princess Diana was my favourite. Around this time, she was filming her series Under the Umbrella Tree, but since I wasn’t allowed to watch TV, I never saw any of the episodes. She knew I wasn’t allowed, so she would demonstrate how Gloria, Iggy and Jacob would talk. I absolutely loved all the different voices she could do.”
“During the summer she taught puppet-making classes and invited me to attend, but I was not allowed. She offered to teach me privately, and eventually I convinced Mom to let me go if I didn’t tell Dad. I would sneak over and Noreen helped me make several different puppets and taught me how to develop their personality and how to use different voices. This is where my love for creating stories started.”
“And when I became a teacher,” Hazelwood adds, “Noreen helped me develop a puppet-making option for my junior high classes. She has been such an inspiration in my life. What a legacy she has left in our hearts.”
And that legacy goes on, and on.