Biography:

Born in Butler, Pa. -- at Butler Memorial Hospital -- to Henry and Catherine L. (Heasley) LeGrand. I was named Henry J. LeGrand lll -- but Hank is what I am mostly known by. I grew up out in the country along with six sisters and two brothers. Stories were a big part of my life growing-up and--with that many siblings--there was never a shortage of imaginative-storytelling, book readings, or just simply being an avid listener. Everyday was a wonderful learning experience with my family, and an experience that will stay in my head and heart forever I attended St. Mary's Elementary School in Herman, Pa., then went on to the local high school. I enlisted in the military in 1969, and was honourably discharged in 1971 from the United States Army's infantry division. I'm a Vietnam Veteran and was awarded two Bronze Stars.

I’ve always had room in my head for daydreaming--actually a lot of room. I enjoy seeing my thought take form on paper, and I get a great deal of satisfaction inventing all the different characters. But the best part of writing a story--to me--is working with the illustrator, and watching in amazement as the characters and scenes begin to emerge, and are blended into the story. Paddle Tail is my first published book, and it will be a series. I thought up Paddle Tail while daydreaming about an old duck-pond that I spend a lot of time at--back when I was just a kid myself. There were no beavers living in the shallow- muddy-pond, but that didn’t stop my imagination.  Paddle Tail and I visit schools and libraries. I speak to the students about what it takes to get a children’s illustrated book published; the determination, persistence and, also, about the positive attitude one must have to clear all the hurdles. I talk to them about beavers, their characteristics, and the benefits they give to Mother Nature and, to Mankind. I presently work at AK Steel's Butler works--in the Environmental Department.

            Interests: I like camping, inventing, drawing, and especially writing fiction stories for children and young adults. I also enjoy riding my Jet Ski, motorcycle, and working around my home--which keeps me more than occupied. Please watch for Paddle Tail’s next story, titled, ‘Paddle Tail’s First Winter Adventure.’ Released 5/1/06. My other works are 'Under The Wishing Well' (In the Amazon Shorts Program). Two of my other stories titled, 'Little Moe's Christmas' and 'Toboggan Wax' will also be at Amazon in their shorts program for the hollidays. Hey Kids! Have Mom or Dad help you to e-mail Paddle Tail at paddletail@zoominternet.net

Please, also, visit my website/s listed below--to see pictures of Paddle Tail and I at some of our activities………………..http://gottawritenetwork.com/hanklegrand.html  Or at…………………………………………http://www.authorsden.com/hanklegrandlll  Paddle Tail's books can now be purchased in ebook form at www.eBooks-Library.com UNDER CONTEMPORY AUTHORS.