Misha Maynerick Blaise is an author-illustrator known for the fresh and original style of her illustrated gift books, blending art, humor, and soulful reflection. Through her work, she explores themes of interconnectedness, the mysteries of the universe, self-discovery, and the oneness of humanity. Her books invite readers to reflect on life’s deeper questions while staying grounded in creativity, joy, and hope. She lives with her husband and two sons in Arkansas.
Awards and Honors
*Juror for the Illustration competition at the Shanghai International Children’s Book Fair (2017)
*Selected artist featured in the Austin Central Public Library’s children’s book section (2021-present)
This Phenomenal Life: The Amazing Ways We Are Connected with Our Universe (Lyons Press, 2017)
*Starred Review from Publishers Weekly
*Top ten best-seller in China (Hachette, 2017)
*Translated to nine languages
*Finalist for the Wenjin Book Award by the National Library of China, 2018
*Outstanding popular science book by China’s Ministry of Science and Technology, 2018
*Featured on Beijing Radio and Television
*Top 10 Book recommended on Sina Weiboone (one of the most popular social media platforms in China)
You Are a Cosmic Tree: Baha’i-Inspired Reflections on the Life of the Soul (Bellwood Press, 2024)
Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA) Gold Award Winner
Nautilus Book Awards Silver Award Winner
*Independent Publisher Book Awards (IPPY) Silver Award Winner
*DeRose-Hinkhouse Award of Excellence from the Religion Communicators Council
Crazy for Birds (Penguin, 2020)
*Meet the Author Feature in BookPage; April, 2020
*Translated into four languages
BOOK TOUR IN CHINA
My book, This Phenomenal Life, was a best-seller in China, where I went on book tour in 2017. I visited schools, libraries, and bookstores in Nanjing, Beijing, and Shanghai. I also served as a juror for the illustration competition at the Shanghai International Children’s Book Fair.
MY ART IN THE AUSTIN TEXAS CENTRAL LIBRARY
