STEVENSON PRODUCTION BOOKS

 

 

 

In 2008, Stevenson Productions began to publish a series of books. The first in the series was a collection of devotional readings written by Bob & Dudley-Brian's father, Baker Stevenson Smith, Sr. The series continues on with two more books, both in 2009, one by Dudley-Brian and a second co-written by Jan & Dudley-Brian. These books represent the menber's interest in other writing formats and will continue as resources and interest holds. The covers of the books bear illustrations by brother Joel Smith, a former member of both Charmer and Smithfield Fair and a noted illustrator, as well as design by Mumblius (Bob Smith Design). The books are available for sale at all performances and by mail for $7.00 per copy (s/h included). To purchase these books by mail, send a check payable to Smithfield Fair for the number of books to Stevenson Productions, 8323 Justin Avenue, Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70809.

A WALK IN WISDOM by Baker Stevenson Smith, Sr.

Originally called "The Minute Sermon" for a church newletter, Steve Smith wrote to expound upon scripture. It was part of his responsibility as a Ruling Elder to help shepherd the congregation and to assist the pastor in the Biblical understanding of the membership. He took his calling and responsibilities to heart and spent long hours pouring over the scriptures, concordances and the theological library in his collection. He wrote these minute sermons with strong conviction, and was ever a tireless student of the Bible and a humble man who sought continually better understanding for himself and to share what he learned of the scriptures with others.

THE REVEREND MCLAURIN'S FOLK by Dudley-Brian Smith

A collection of short stories of a small village in the Highlands of Scotland and the effect their pastor had on the community. Through good times and bad, happy and sad, the folk of the fictional Appin are shepherded with constant care by the Reverend Hugh McLaurin. Book I - The Folk of Appin reflects that what goes out from the pulpit on Sundays has a profound effect throughout the week and is supported by the very nature of Hugh McLaurin and his good wife, Peg. Book II - Words From Appin is a journal of the memories by local writer and chronicler Ian Stevenson, as he observes the progress of time in this Highland community.

THE GREEN GROVE: SCOTTISH STORIES FOR CHILDREN by Jan & Dudley-Brian Smith

This slim volume began in 1993 with "No Beasties for Maggie", written by Dudley-Brian for their then three-year old daughter, Margaret. The collection grew along with Margaret and ended when, like Wendy Darling, she decided not to leave forever with Peter Pan. Now a young woman, she has no need for these bedtime tales, but the strange magic of that childhood time still lingers in the Smith house and in their hearts, and is imbedded in these stories.

 

Stevenson Productions, 8323 Justin Avenue, Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70809

Please make checks payable to Smithfield Fair.

A review of THE GREEN GROVE: SCOTTISH STORIES FOR CHILDREN by Dawn Sparacio, Ceili Magazine

Is there anything more precious on this earth than the time a parent or grandparent spends at a child's bedside spinning tales to help ease them into dreamland? To calm fears, to dry tears, to incite gleeful giggles and sleepy wiggles?

As a newly crowned grandmother and an aging 'matron' of Urchin Street at the North Texas Irish Festival, I find myself in the envious position of seeking out books for wee ones. Occasionally I am blessed with one that I didn't know I was looking for, but once found am delighted with the discovery. The Green Grove is such a treasure.

This tiny book, a mere 52 pages, 12 little tales, began as stories the authors spun for their own precious daughter. They encompass the rich Celtic history of storytelling, a child's infatuation with mystical and mythical creatures, humor, and beauty, all in short tales and poems ranging from 2 to 6 pages each. Each story is accompanied by simple line drawing illustrations by Dudley's brother Joel Smith, an accomplished artist, songwriter, poet, and musician himself.

'Angus McLaurin's Dream', the opening story in this book, tells of a young lad who dearly loves his grandmother (had me held tight at that one) and sets out for a visit to her house down the way. His trip is delayed when he discovers a large fairy mound that has mysteriously been moved from off the road to the middle of his path to Granny's house. How this obstacle is overcome is delightful and told in such a sweet way as to lull even the most stubborn nightowls into blissful sleep.

Other tales, such as 'The Two Beasties o' Loch Ness' and 'Dark Glen, Shining Tower' are heroic and delightfully entertaining as they depict creative ways to overcome difficulties. 'Sir Macky MacSnoot' is endearing in its clever rhyme and humorous depiction of an odd little man. These and other stories not only brighten the evening storytime with silliness and sweetness, many also have a wee hidden moral that teach a lesson without so much as a blackboard or ruler.

One of my personal favorites is 'Twas the Night Afore Christmas . . . in Scotland'. I have always adored Clement Clarke Moore's 'Twas the Night Before Christmas'. I learned the names of the 8 tiny reindeer that way, and even today I find myself reciting their names unconsciously. What a hoot to see Aye, Hamish! Och, Andrew! Ho, Murdock an' Angus! Losh, Morag an' Elspeth an' Rory! Ho! Haggis! It'll never be the same again and yet it will be even more entertaining as I hear that Scottish brogue in my mind when trying to read On Dasher, on Dancer, on Prancer & Vixen. . .

To sum it up, a delightful read, not only for the children in your life. To quote Jan and Dudley:

"A story's for sharin', like good news, scones or tea. I've told you a few, now tell one to me. Of heroes or cowards, of jesters or kings; A story's for sharin' with good company."

Find this book, read it to yourself and your children and your grandchildren. Pass down the love of that sweet time before dreams when parent and child, grandparent and grandchild, come together in peace and quiet. Pass down the rich heritage of storytelling. No greater gift can be given than the time you give to a child.