Multi-book deal in English and Spanish to be illustrated by Brenda Harris, translated by Gabriella Aldeman, and edited by Tamara Rittershaus
(St Paul, MN, June 2023) — In her debut as a picture book author, Teri Weber has signed a series deal with Elva Resa Publishing, with the first three stories in her Operation Aviation™ series slated for release in 2024. English and Spanish editions will release simultaneously for each book. The series will be illustrated by Brenda Harris, translated by Gabriella Aldeman, and edited by Tamara Rittershaus.
Operation Aviation™ is a series of rhyming military aircraft adventures, for children ages 4 to 8, featuring anthropomorphic fighter jets and a supportive cast of aviation friends. Series releases include Fly with Mytai and Vuela con Maytai in March 2024; Toad the Tanker and El Tanquecito in June 2024; and Moose on a Mission and La misión de Alce in September 2024.
“We are so excited for this super fun series,” says Elva Resa’s publisher Karen Pavlicin. “All the stars aligned to bring together this powerhouse creative team. Everyone came to the project kick-off with amazing ideas. Kids—and adults—will love these characters, and their adventures are sure to be read over and over!”
A fourth-generation military officer and senior US Air Force pilot, author Teri Weber wanted to create an entertaining picture book that would introduce her two young children to military aviation.
“I wrote Moose on a Mission first since I fly the C-17,” says Weber. “Then eventually, I decided to include other aircraft and expand my passion project into a full series. Why stop at one jet when there are so many interesting planes out there?”
Illustrator Brenda Harris felt an instant connection to the project. “Images immediately jumped into my head as I read the manuscript,” says Harris. “I had a very strong sense of each character’s personalities right from the get-go!”
The translating-editing team of Aldeman and Rittershaus was set up intentionally to translate and edit all books collaboratively.
“Rhyming is a challenge in any language,” explains Pavlicin. “It was important to our team that each book present its best story-in-rhyme while keeping the corresponding stories close in meaning in each language edition. Gaby and Tamara work so well together translating and editing each other’s work. It’s a true gift to have them both collaborating on this series.”
About the Author
Teri Weber is a fourth-generation military officer who serves as a senior pilot in the US Air Force. A seasoned C-17A Instructor Aircraft Commander, Teri has experience leading combat-ready aircrew members and operating aircraft in support of humanitarian relief, medical evacuations, presidential movements, and Department of Defense initiatives. With a passion for developing the next generation of aviators, Teri frequently volunteers with children of all ages and backgrounds, serves as a guest speaker at Girls in STEM and Girls in Aviation events, and engages with young students through aircraft displays, career fairs, unit tours, and mentorship workshops. Teri is currently assigned to the Pentagon and lives in Washington, DC, with her Marine husband and their young son and daughter.
About the Illustrator
Brenda Harris is a graphic designer, illustrator, and art teacher. A second-generation Latina, she is heavily influenced by nature and storytelling. Her eye for balance and visual hierarchy is conveyed in her illustrations. Brenda works both digitally and with traditional media. Her illustrations tell playful and engaging stories through rich color palettes, atmospheric lighting, and authentic characters. Growing up in a military family and community, and later becoming an Air Force wife, she learned to be flexible, patient, observant, and to make friends wherever she goes. Brenda grew up in Colorado Springs, where she currently lives with her husband and two children.
About the Translator
Gabriella Aldeman is a Panamanian American author and translator. Her picture books include Paula’s Patches and Squawk of Spanish. She is an active member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators and the American Translators Association. Gaby translates books for a variety of publishers and is Elva Resa’s lead Spanish translator and editor.
About the Editor
Tamara Rittershaus is a poetry editor and a picture book author. Her favorite picture books are in rhyme like Fly with Mytai. A former Montessori kindergarten teacher and PADI Divemaster, Tamara is inspired by her classroom, her love of the ocean, and her own two kids. Her books include Marie’s Big Adieu, Eel’s Book of Mermaid Jokes, Mermaids Don’t Fart, Lockdown Drill at Superhero School, and Jumpstart to Reading ABC.
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ELVA RESA PUBLISHING LLC is an award-winning, mission-driven, traditional independent publisher based in St. Paul, Minnesota, specializing in quality resources by, for, and about military families. Elva Resa’s mission is to make a positive difference in people’s lives.
ElvaResa.com, MilitaryFamilyBooks.com
MEDIA: Please contact Elva Resa PR at 651-357-8770 or pr [@] elvaresa.com for author interviews and notification of advance reading copies.
For inquiries about merchandising, TV series, translation, international, and other subsidiary rights, please contact rights [@] elvaresa.com.
Author bio and headshot: Teri Weber
Illustrator bio and headshot: Brenda Harris
Translator bio and headshot: Gabriella Aldeman
Rhyme editor bio and headshot: Tamara Rittershaus