A Mill Valley mindfulness teacher, a Tiburon children’s book author inspired by a paper mache zebra and a Tiburon poet drawing on Mount Tamalpais hikes all have new books out.

The three Southern Marin writers were featured in an Aug. 19 Marin Independent Journal roundup by Colleen Bidwill. Here's a closer look at what our neighbors have been writing.

Lee Klinger Lesser: 'Return To Our Senses'

Lee Klinger Lesser has spent more than 50 years teaching sensory awareness, a somatic mindfulness practice. The Mill Valley author's new book, "Return To Our Senses," offers step-by-step exercises and stories of people whose lives changed through the practice.

One story follows a wrongly convicted prisoner on death row who became an advocate and mentor to young men.

"As we navigate our way through personal challenges and the precarious future we are facing on our shared planet, how we meet each moment affects our lives and the lives of those around us," Lesser writes in the book.

Her website lists author events beginning Sept. 14 and running through March 2027.

Ellen Rony: 'DayZee Discovers her Purple Superpower'

Ellen Rony's debut children's book grew from an unlikely source: a life-sized paper mache baby zebra with a special purple stripe on its neck that the Tiburon resident made during COVID.

That zebra became DayZee.

Written by Rony and illustrated by Victoria Fong, "DayZee Discovers her Purple Superpower" follows a newborn zebra who is different from her herd and longs to fit in, touching on themes of self-discovery, resilience and acceptance. Kirkus Reviews gave the book a "Get It!" rating, calling it a sweet story that encourages readers to see their differences as gifts.

The book shipped to 15 states in its first month and reached the United Kingdom, according to the book's official website. By November, copies will be in primary schools and community libraries of 16 rural villages in Malawi. Each sale supports the World Wildlife Fund.

Ayris Hatton: 'Dreaming Wide Awake'

Tiburon artist and art therapist Ayris Hatton didn't have to go far for inspiration. Her new book, "Dreaming Wide Awake," is a seasonally arranged collection of poetry and art described as a "love letter to the North Bay."

The book explores how everyday local sights can spark deeper reflection. In "Stinson Summer," Hatton writes about reeds and flowering grasses swaying in the wind. In "Coming or Going," she reflects on a Mount Tamalpais hike.

The Ark featured both Rony and Hatton on July 8 under the headline "Two Tiburon residents publish books of verse... and a purple zebra."

What's ahead

Lesser's author events begin Sept. 14, with appearances scheduled through March 2027. Rony's "DayZee" will reach schools and libraries in 16 Malawi villages by November. All three books are available for purchase.