The idea for the little owl character in Mary's first children's book, "Hello Little Owl" came to her when her first grandchild was on the way. The baby’s gender was to remain a surprise! And because the family surname, Uihlein, translates loosely to “little owl” in German, the unborn child was fondly called their “Little Owl” for the next nine months.

When Emma James was born on September 9, 2012, the first “Hello Little Owl" story was completed to welcome her into the world with love, and a sense of self-worth and the promise of wisdom.

Since Emma’s birth, Mary has written and illustrated more “Little Owl” stories -- tales that share entertaining adventures of Little Owl as she meets new friends and explores her natural world.

Mary’s stories often draw on her own childhood experiences growing up in the north woods with her sister and friends and the very important life lessons they learned while watching the antics of animals and exploring their natural habitat. She feels that her experiences in the outdoor world helped prepare her for some of the intricacies of human emotions and the competitive nature of all beings.

Also, on this website, you will find a delightful collection of nature-related tales beyond The World of Hello Little Owl written and illustrated by Mary.

Mary and her husband, Jamie, now enjoy spending time with their family in Sarasota, Florida and Land O’Lakes, Wisconsin.