Josh's interest in drawing started when he could pick up a crayon and scribble. Dr. Seuss was his first big inspiration. The fantasy worlds and characters of those books taught him to never neglect the depths of imagination and to never forget how to think like a child.

He decided to pursue a career in graphic design by enrolling at the Art Institutes International, MN in 2000 and graduated with a Bachelor's degree in 2003. He then went on to take courses at Brainco: Minneapolis School of Advertising, Design, & Interactive Studies. Currently he works as the design manager at a direct mail advertising company, Market America Corp. On the side he draws, paints, makes a little music, bounces new ideas off of friends, and, of course, illustrates for the Papa Lemon series.

Matter of Africa America Time Corp., an Independent Publisher, was established in Minneapolis, Minnesota, by Lehman Riley and Paul Dixon in July 2004. The company was created in order to publish "The Adventures of Papa Lemon's Little Wanderers" children's book series.

The company's mission is "Making Multi-Cultural History Fun." _

Papa Lemon will help teach children about our great country's diverse heritage with the use of his magical train.

Papa Lemon was born in West, Mississippi on Dec. 6, 1896, and passed away on Oct. 29, 1973. The last time I saw my grandfather was when they closed the coffin at his funeral. I could not believe that would be the end. _No more games of checkers or taking me to Miss Annie B's General Store for candy or pop. Ten years was not enough. I could not stop thinking of Papa Lemon everyday for thirty years. I thank God for giving me the vision to share my grandfather with the world. Kids of all ages I give you my grandfather Papa Lemon.

Mama Sarah, the wife of Papa Lemon, was born in West, Mississippi on Jan. 26, 1903. My grandmother, lived to be 101 years old. Mama Sarah was the sweetest lady I ever knew. _I never heard my grandmother raise her voice. I loved for her to tell me stories about how she grew up, and the life she had with Papa Lemon. She found good in everyone, never seeing the negative in people. With her last words she looked to heaven and said "It's so beautiful," and passed away, and that's how she was, so beautiful.

Papa Lemon and Mama Sarah had nine children and numerous grand and great grand children.