Author Biography

Craig Bradley is an avid hiker and traveler who often chronicles his adventures for his family and friends. He has lived and traveled extensively throughout Asia. Intrigued by the tales of Marco Polo as a child, he often imagined what it might have been like to be Marco's younger brother-and so Peter Polo was born. Craig currently lives in Virginia with his wife and two sons and travels whenever possible. Laurie A. Conley is an artist who uses both traditional and digital pen and ink to illustrate historical stories. Many students have seen her work in their books and workbooks. When she's not working on a book project, Laurie creates gently spooky art. She especially enjoys drawing cute ghosts and whimsical haunted house portraits. Favorite inspirations include old trees, castle ruins, and beautiful cemeteries. Laurie lives in Maryland, a place full of history, in her long-time family home. You can find more of her art on Etsy and Instagram @laurieaconleyart

Review

"Kids will relish this rollicking adventure, replete with fun characters, high-stakes action, and intriguing mystery-all set in the marvelous milieu of medieval Asia."- Brandon Hale, author of the Prince Martin Epic "What if Marco Polo had a younger brother who had Indiana Jones vibes with a little Tom Sawyer and young Anthony Bourdain thrown in? Set in thirteenth century Asia, Peter Polo and the White Elephant of Lan Xang is an exciting historical middle-grade adventure that takes readers on a heart-racing journey as Peter sets out to prevent a war, help a captive princess, and rescue baby elephants. Along the way, Peter encounters cultures that are new to him, experiencing ideas, traditions, celebrations, and delicious food. But when his friends are in grave danger, Peter must use the skills he's learned from his travels to keep them safe. Equally engaging for reading aloud or silently, the fast-paced plot and fun characters seamlessly allow young readers to accidentally-on-purpose learn about history, geography, and culture. Spending a little time with Peter Polo can help each of us be a little more adventurous and eager to try new things in our own lives." - Lana Krumwiede, author of Freakling (The Psi Chronicles)

Review Quote

"Kids will relish this rollicking adventure, replete with fun characters, high-stakes action, and intriguing mystery-all set in the marvelous milieu of medieval Asia." - Brandon Hale, author of the Prince Martin Epic "What if Marco Polo had a younger brother who had Indiana Jones vibes with a little Tom Sawyer and young Anthony Bourdain thrown in? Set in thirteenth century Asia, Peter Polo and the White Elephant of Lan Xang is an exciting historical middle-grade adventure that takes readers on a heart-racing journey as Peter sets out to prevent a war, help a captive princess, and rescue baby elephants. Along the way, Peter encounters cultures that are new to him, experiencing ideas, traditions, celebrations, and delicious food. But when his friends are in grave danger, Peter must use the skills he's learned from his travels to keep them safe. Equally engaging for reading aloud or silently, the fast-paced plot and fun characters seamlessly allow young readers to accidentally-on-purpose learn about history, geography, and culture. Spending a little time with Peter Polo can help each of us be a little more adventurous and eager to try new things in our own lives." - Lana Krumwiede, author of Freakling (The Psi Chronicles)

Details