Indiana State University alumna Tonalee Shinabery-King (’86) has turned her lifelong love of learning and nature into a children’s book that celebrates curiosity, connection, and family.
Her debut picture book, More Than a Mushroom Hunt, invites readers to join a young girl and her father on a sensory-rich journey through the woods, discovering animals, wildflowers, and mushrooms along the way. Shinabery-King, an education major with a reading minor, says the story is “more than an adventure that is rich with sensory language or actual foraging for mushrooms—it’s a book about a relationship.”
During her time at Indiana State, Shinabery-King was deeply influenced by Dr. Leslie Barratt, whose mastery of languages left a lasting impression. “She demonstrated what a capable, well-rounded female should embody,” Shinabery-King said. “Her grasp of languages astounds me to this day.”
Her experience at Indiana State University also gave her lifelong friendships. As a member of Delta Delta Delta, she built connections that remain strong decades later—and even met her husband of 40 years.
As a subtle tribute to her alma mater, Shinabery-King included a nod to the University in her book. “Due to my time at Indiana State, I wanted to give a little acknowledgment,” she said. “On page ten, I referred to a sycamore leaf.”
With More Than a Mushroom Hunt, Shinabery-King combines her passion for education, storytelling, and nature to inspire children and families to slow down, explore, and cherish their relationships—much like the ones that began during her days at Indiana State University.
The book will go on sale to the general public on November 6 on bookshop.org or any online book seller. For more information, Shinabery-King can be contacted at klpp1985@gmail.com.
