Reed, James W.: - My name is James W. Reed. I am one of sixteen children by my parents, Robert and Elizabeth. I and most of my siblings were born and raised here on Long Island, New York. My family was active in harvesting the shellfish on Great South Bay near the ocean. Indeed, one of my brothers went on to be a very successful commercial fisherman working out of Hampton Bays. For my part, I am a professional tradesman welder. I am responsible for welding strategic components for the U.S. military and the airline and railroad industry. Although my real passion lies in nature and, of course, writing. I have interests in both birding and astronomy. However, it is childrens' story books that have captivated my soul since I was a child. I feel privileged to be able to write for such an amazing and wondrous audience! Afterall, children are the future. Let us nurture them well.