SCOTTSBLUFF, NE - Panhandle author, artist, architect, and producer Lauri Matisse is promoting her new children’s book, ‘Music From The Water’ from her first children’s series 'Cats Curious Capers’.

A living Hallmark movie, Matisse has returned to her small hometown of Scottsbluff after some time in Los Angeles. She became well known there after her book 'No More Dark Days' gained the attention of Princess Diana.

Now, Matisse says Scottsbluff is the best place to ground her with a strong identity.

Matisse hopes kids can similarly find this sense of self through her new book.

"I really want to advocate for kids to be themselves," Matisse said. She added, "For girls, you don't have to be pretty or a supermodel -- you can be smart!" 

The protagonist of 'Music from the Water' learns this self-independence after she is magically transported to Nebraska in 1888. Matisse said she had to research Nebraska, that time period, and more. 

You can check out Matisse's studio at 1515 Broadway.

Next on her plate will be a podcast she’s working on titled Mystik Center, as well as a Youtube channel.