Gurik publishes first children's book, 'Lewis Walker'

SHELBY — Clarissa Beth Gurik loves cartoons and movies.

"The Lion King" is her favorite animated film and is the inspiration for her first children's book, "Lewis Walker."

A Shelby native, Gurik graduated from Pioneer Career and Technology Center in 2011. She started writing her book when she was only 14 or 15.

According to a synopsis from Dorrance Publishing Co., Lewis Walker is a lion who knows his purpose is music. Together with three squirrel friends, he travels to New York City looking for adventure.

"He's a lion cub who's an orphan, and he's best friends with the squirrels. They're orphans, too," Gurik said. "They end up in New York to start a rock band."

When they reach the city, the friends meet a man named Charlie who also loves music. With passion, creativity and talent, the animals and Charlie set out to make their musical dreams a reality.

Gurik has a passion for animals. She has a cat named L.J. and a 4-month-old dog named Noah. He is a new addition to the house she shares with her stepfather and brother.

Asked how L.J. is dealing with a puppy, Gurik said "so-so."

"He likes having the house to himself," she said.

Gurik, 32, developed a love of writing when she was in middle school. She said she loves to make up characters and credits local attorney James Blunt with helping her find a publisher for "Lewis Walker," along with a copywright.

"I've been pushing her to try to get into schools and libraries," Blunt said. "I've known her stepdad for decades."

Gurik's book is a 30-page paperback.

"It turned out wonderful, just like I wanted it, and I really love the cover," she said.

The cover shows Lewis holding a guitar, accompanied by the squirrels on acoustic guitar, drums and keyboards.

"It makes me smile," Gurik said.

The fledgling author has heard from people who want a sequel to "Lewis Walker." Gurik already has a plot in mind that has Lewis returning to Africa.

In the meantime, she has two books in the can that she hopes Dorrance will be interested in publishing. "Martin" tells the story of a mouse who goes back in time to broker peace between mice and rats.

"Dreamboat" involves a character who protects people from nightmares.

"Lewis Walker" has a retail price of $11, $6 for an eBook. The ISBN is 979-8-89027-332-1. People also can visit the company's online bookstore at https://bookstore.dorrancepublishing.com/products/lewis-walker.

mcaudill@gannett.com

419-521-7219

X: @MarkCau32059251

This article originally appeared on Mansfield News Journal: Gurik publishes first children's book, 'Lewis Walker'