Leslie Stall Widener is an author and illustrator passionate about drawing, painting, and writing stories for children. The first picture book she illustrated, Chukfi Rabbit's Big, Bad Bellyache, is a Choctaw trickster tale about a very naughty rabbit. Since then, she's illustrated six picture books, including five traditional stories for the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. Leslie enjoys reading and writing about historical people, places, and events. Researching one subject often takes her in unexpected directions, giving her new story ideas. She co-edited and contributed to the anthology, Stories by Choctaw Women. While employed by the Choctaw Cultural Center, she initiated an illustrated biography series showcasing stories about influential Choctaws. She also began a bi-yearly children's magazine. Leslie lives in McKinney, Texas with her husband, artist Terry Widener. She serves as Native Fund Chair for We Need Diverse Books (diversebooks.org) and is a member of the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators. She is a member of Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma and a registered Choctaw artist.

Visit her online www.lesliestallwidener.com. 

Books by Leslie Stall Widener