The Story of Governor Baxter and Baxter State Park

by Barbara DeVito Bourgoine
illustrated by Jemelie Deering Bessette

Percy’s Patience is a children’s picture book biography about former Maine Governor Percival P. Baxter. Vignettes from the archives highlight the perseverance of young Percy, revealing his “growth mindset,” and how he learns to wait for rewards.  We also see how his dreams for a better world shaped his life and civic career. Each page of Percy’s Patience is footnoted, so that one could choose to read the narrative for its own sake, or slow down to absorb “fun facts.” This book could appeal to a six-year old or a sixth- grader. Back matter includes timeline, maps, portraits, and references.
For more information, visit PercysPatience.com.

About the Author

BARBARA DEVITO BOURGOINE is a retired literacy teacher who lives in Readfield, Maine. She and her husband, as well as two daughters and their husbands, enjoy camping, skiing, paddling, and hiking in Baxter State Park and other natural places.

About the Illustrator

JEMELIE DEERING BESSETTE lives in Readfield with her best friend and husband Paul. She has two marvelous sons and daughters-in-law and two fantastic granddaughters. She is a retired state lab microbiologist and enjoys painting, gardening, traveling, exercising, and of course, getting together with family and friends!