In the heart of small-town America, where neighbors are more than just familiar faces, Alease Brier’s talent continues to weave stories that shape her community.

The 2024 Cedarville Universitygraduate brought her artistic gift to life by illustrating Emma Townsend’s latest children’s book that focuses on a landmarknear Liberty, Indiana — their hometown. With every stroke of her brush, Brier adds warmth and vibrancy to the pages, making her an integral part of a shared creative journey that’s inspiring both young readers and those who call this town home.

Brier, who earned a degree in professional writing and information design, illustrated Townsend’s first book, “Kids Can’t Drink Coffee,” during her junior year.The following fall, she began collaborating with on Townsend on asecond book, “Moose the Goose is on the Loose.”

The new story follows two children who find themselves playing hide-and-seek in Liberty’s Whitewater Memorial State Parkwith a goose named Moose. The mismatched name causes confusion for the adults in the community, all of whom are based on real people who frequent or work at the park.

“I wanted my little readers to look at the page, smile and enjoy the story while looking for the goose!” Brier said. “I am very grateful to God for the opportunity to illustrate this book and highlight a great community.”

Brier currently lives and works in the Cincinnati area as a user experience writer for London Computer Systems. She is incorporating her small-townvalues as she puts down roots in her new community.

“Finding a local church and having them adopt me with open arms has been so sweet,” Brier said. “It's been such a joy to get to know the people and see them reach out with the love of Jesus to me and others. Asa graduate,I’mexcited to beconnecting toa new community and building more relationships that will last a lifetime.”

Brier’s illustrations for Townsend’s “Moose the Goose is on the Loose” will help young readers cultivate their own love of communities, something that Brier has done so well.

Located in southwest Ohio, Cedarville University is a Baptist university with undergraduate programs in arts, sciences, and professional programs, and graduate programs. With an enrollment of 6,384 students in 175 areas of study, Cedarville is one of the largest private universities in Ohio and is recognized nationally for its authentic Christian community, rigorous academic programs, including its Bachelor of Arts in professional writing and information design, and high graduation and retention rates. For more information about the University, visit cedarville.edu.