The Public Library of Mount Vernon and Knox County has partnered with the Knox County Park District to offer a new book on the Storybook Trail at Wolf Run Park: “Beyond the Pond” by Joseph Kuefler.

Kuefler's book explores the age-old question, "What lies beneath?" Bored one day, Ernest D. decides to explore the depths of his pond, concluding after several experiments that it must be bottomless.

Thrilled by this realization, he gathers exploration gear and dives in with his dog. At first, they are met with familiar pond life – fish and frogs – but soon, some unexpected discoveries reveal themselves: squid, sharks and sunken treasures. Eventually Ernest surfaces into a fantastical world where dinosaurs roam the earth with squirrels, monkeys and a mouse riding a miniature unicorn.

After these and other adventures, Ernest D.’s house no longer seems ordinary.

Kuefler uses a combination of mixed media and photographed textures in his digital illustrations on heavy matte paper to create a nearly tangible reading experience.

You can enjoy this book at the Storybook Trail through September. Scan the QR code at the end of the trail to sign our guestbook, and you will be entered to win a free book!