John Bing is originally from Knoxville, Tennessee and holds a B.A. summa cum laude from the University of Colorado and a doctorate in anthropology from Emory University. His research on the Northern Cheyenne Reservation shaped his passion for culture and ritual. Alongside a varied career as a teacher, firefighter, and paralegal, John continues to pursue his love for art and the outdoors.

 

Christian Pierre grew up in Jacksonville, Florida and studied at the School of Visual Arts in New York and the University of Florida. An experienced art teacher and accomplished artist, her vibrant work has been showcased internationally in museums, galleries and book covers. Christian’s art explores inclusion and diversity, and she brings her creative passion into both her artwork and teaching.

 

As educators, scholars  and artists, John and Christian have seen the importance of focus in learning and creating, a challenge everyone faces. Raising children and working with countless others, she and John developed the idea for “Taming Wild Horses,” a metaphor for gently guiding wandering thoughts. Inspired by John’s childhood stories and Christian’s teaching experiences, Hugo’s journey reflects the challenge of staying focused in a world full of distractions. During the pandemic education went online and indoors. The return to brick and mortar schools has revealed an urgent need for hands-on learning, reinforcing the book’s intention of balancing modern technology with the timeless values of family, nature, and tradition. Both authors relate to Hugo’s frustrations and the lessons learned along the way, making the book a personal reflection of their creative journeys.