Illustrator Robert Parker Bennett (Bob) joined the Navy during the Korean War. When returning home to Boston, MA, he attended Northeastern University, graduating with a degree in Industrial Engineering. His career was a Marketing Director in International Sales but his love was drawing cartoons for family and friends. He created Mudd and Violett after giving granddaughter a little stuffed unicorn. Which she named Mudd. His illustrations are drawn from some secret place inside his heart, which gives them special warmth.

Author Arlene Bennett describes herself as a grandmother who has always made up children’s stories. She has written various stories, articles and poems, and prior to retirement many of her articles were published in Company newsletters. She has continued writing for personal satisfaction and for clubs she joined after retiring. After husband Bob create Mudd and Violett, she wrote “Hello, My Name Is Mudd, I come from Rainbow City” in the 1980s. When Bob retired in 1992 they began to think about completion of the book and illustrations and to publish the book.

When they created the book they were residing on the Central Coast of California in Pacific Grove. The beauty that surrounded them, and family and friends encouraged them to complete this delightful children’s story. Their hope was that children everywhere would fall in love with Mudd and Violett as many have done since their initial creation. Bob passed away in 1998 and Arlene moved to Oregon near family. In 2007 – with the urging of family and friends, Arlene decided, finally, to publish the book in Bob’s honor. We hope you enjoy getting to know Mudd and Violett.