Local Authors

Many citizens of Ashland are proud members because of our strong sense of community, powerful school district, and generous local businesses. I'm thrilled to share that we are also the home of a few local authors! Take a look below to learn more about the women in our community that have published books and given to more than just their own families. I hope you are able to enjoy this accomplishment as much as we have at Southern Boone Primary!

Cathy Leininger

Mrs. Leininger's family has recently moved to Ashland from Nebraska. She is the mother of four children, two of which are in the Primary school. Her story, The Cow That Mooed Boo is available at amazon.com .

We will soon have a copy available in our very own Library!

"This is a really nice, colorful story for elementary school children and their families. I, as an adult, enjoyed the tale--the telling and the teaching. It does a great job of teaching the message that differences are good and that we need to respect them. It also teaches that friendship is a great thing to have and that in order to have a friend first you need to be a friend.

This is a story that is worthy of any library, home or otherwise. It has beautiful, fun illustrations on each page. They enhance the story well. It is a very good choice for parents, teachers and adults alike. This tale is a great work, with all the things needed to make it a favorite, not only for children but also for adults."

~ Reviewed by Author Anna del C. Dye for Readers' Favorite ~

Nancy Beck

Nancy BeckMrs. Beck is not only a parent in our district and registered nurse but also a published author. Pillow Talk was written for parents to help encourage a wide variety of choices by their children. Visit her website nursenancybeck.com for more information.“Pillow Talks” can change the future of your child by removing a fear and allowing your child to develop on their natural path. The change is usually immediate. Pillow Talks have helped children perform better in school, get over fear of dentist, remove fear of bugs, overcoming sibling rivalry and so much more. I am looking forward to hearing your testimonials.-Nurse Nancy

Hope Sickmeier

Mrs. Sickmeier is a 4th grade teacher and has recently published a book with her sister. Hoop and Holler by Hope and Holly Ledgerwood is a story their adventures growing up with the grandfather. Our introduction to sisters who make their grandfather smile when they create a barnyard jamboree with their old friend Poncho.

Travis Naughton

We are very fortunate to have Mr. Naughton on staff at our Primary Building. As a substitute teacher he is a positive male presence for our students. Mr. Naughton has p ublished two books and is also a weekly columnist for The Boone County Journal in Ashland, MO. His most recent book is a collection of columns written about his family and our community. Click on the photo to the left to go to Mr. Naughton's website and see a glimpse into his profession as a writer and educator.

travisnaughton.com