Meet the Author and Illustrator
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Author
Lauren Bond
Lauren Bond grew up on the golf course surrounded by a family of lifelong golfers. She played competitively through high school and college at Austin Peay State University, and even spent a season playing professionally, an experience that deepened her love for the game in a way she now shares with her daughter.
During her pregnancy with Ivy, Lauren’s longtime swing coach Gene Carello, offered advice that became her guiding philosophy for both parenting and golf:
“Make it fun. Let her explore, enjoy the experience, and if she loves it she’ll choose the game herself.”
That simple wisdom inspired Lauren to create space for Ivy to laugh, explore, and fall in love with the game naturally.
One morning, while out on the course with illustrator Megan James, the idea for Cartwheels & Fairways was born, a story rooted in creativity, friendship, and the joy of watching children grow up around the game they love.
Lauren lives in East Texas with her husband James, their daughter Ivy, and their two goldendoodles, Groovy Ruby and Margo.
Illustrator
Megan James
​Megan James is an artist, muralist, and entrepreneur based in East Texas.
A Houston native and Texas A&M graduate, she's known for creating vibrant, expressive artwork that brings color and warmth to every project.
Megan discovered golf and quickly fell in love with how the game brings both challenge and connection.
When she met Lauren, their shared passion for creativity and family sparked an instant friendship.
Inspired by their children's laughter and curiosity on the course, they set out to capture those carefree moments in this book-where playtime and fairways meet.
Megan lives in East Texas with her husband Tyler, and their two children, Leo and Lux.
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meet the Characters
Leo
Leo is learning the art of the golf swing, but if you look closely, you’ll often find him pausing to explore the world around him, curious about every leaf, trail, and hidden wonder.
Ivy
Ivy, the youngest, is a free spirit, barefoot and fearless. Darting across the grass doing cartwheels, all while surprising everyone with her competitive drive to hit the ball just right.
Lux
Lux loves being outside with her family. She might take a few swings at the ball, but her heart is usually drawn to blooming flowers and passing animals. Every adventure becomes a little more magical.