Book excerpt: “Must-Read” and “Tale for all Ages,” InStyle Magazine “Best Children’s Books of 2021 for Middle Grades,” Red Tricycle “The Purpose-Driven Book for Tweens Hitting All the Right Notes,” PaperCity “The Land of the Pines Connects Youth with Authentic Self,” Houston Style Magazine “Movie-worthy . . . a modern-day take on Charlotte’s Web,” CultureMap Houston Featured on NBC’s Texas Today and ABC’s “Kids Under Construction” "Hoo" is Grey the Kitten? What is her destiny? And why is she riding in a cup, on a DEER? In her debut novel, author Summer Nilsson takes readers on a journey of discovering identity and the gift of empathy. Lush illustrations capture the magic found in the Piney Woods of Nilsson’s East Texas hometown and bring the cast of creatures vividly to life. The Land of the Pines is a thought-provoking fantasy tale of friendship and fortitude, sure to capture imaginations of all ages. Grey the Kitten knows that she’s meant to be more than just a barn cat. As she grows up on Black Mountain Farm with her mentor Miss Jay the Bird, she can’t help but feel that her destiny lies somewhere beyond her beloved farm. But Grey isn’t the only one with ideas about her future. The Black Widow and her guiding Hourglass have big plans for the farm, and Grey could be their key to controlling the whole mountain—and all the animals who reside there. When the Widow traps Grey in a web of promises and threats, will this special kitten give up control over her destiny? Or will she become an example of what’s possible when you have the courage to forge your own path? Filled with unpredictable twists and turns, The Land of the Pines connects tweens to the transformative power of kindness and intention, all while reinforcing our universal connection to one another.