Hoofen Floofen Island

a story of imagination and adventure, written by a child for children
 

Here is the "story behind the story" of the children's book "Hoofen Floofen Island." This storybook, originally written by 10-year old Lena Kay Rufus, will delight you and your little ones. 

Monica Sword, mother of Lena Rufus (deceased at age 22) talks about the motivation for publishing "Hoofen Floofen Island." In addition to its educational themes of inclusiveness, gloom to gladness and encouraging children's writing and drawing literacy, the book is creating a legacy honoring the memory of a talented daughter gone too soon. 

All proceeds from Lena's children's story benefit others through The Lena Kay Rufus Memorial Scholarship Fund managed by Thrivent Charitable.  

Hoofen Floofen Island is a magical place where palm trees sway, the ocean sparkles, and sandy beaches and the sunshine bring smiles aplenty. Come along to hear the squawk of the seagulls, see the billowing sails and smell the salty air as Lena and her little doggie imagine the possibilities. Their imaginary trip starts when Lena wins a ticket to anywhere in the world. She quickly packs their bags and sets off on a fun adventure to a tropical island.

In life, Lena Kay Rufus (1980-2003) was a Native American child of an Ojibwe bear clan. She was also a writer who honored her imagination, playfulness, and love of travel in Hoofen Floofen Island. The story demonstrates how joy can grow from real or imagined life adventures, especially when shared with those we love best.

In death, Lena's writing lives on through her children's story, originally written at the tender age of ten.

Experience the fantasy of Hoofen Floofen Island as it is brought to life through delightful illustrations. An included discussion guide will encourage your child to write or draw their own tale.

The Lena Kay Rufus Memorial Scholarship Fund

Your purchase of Hoofen Floofen Island benefits others through Lena's memorial scholarship fund. The fund was established in 2003 at Thrivent Charitable, a national charity with a mission to bring donors’ generosity to life with a commitment to to creating positive impact and inspire lasting change in our communities.

To help build and maintain the ongoing efforts of the Lena Kay Rufus Memorial Scholarship Fund at Thrivent Charitable, please mail a check to the address below made payable to ‘Thrivent Charitable Impact & Investing’ with ‘Lena Kay Rufus Memorial Scholarship Fund’ written on the memo line. You may also visit Thrivent Charitable-Make a Gift to learn about all giving options.

Thrivent Charitable Impact & Investing
P.O. Box 8072
Appleton, WI 54912-8072

Lena Kay Rufus

Lena Kay Rufus was just ten years old when she penned, in cursive writing, Hoofen Floofen Island on ruled, loose-leaf, and three-hole punched paper. Near the top of the assignment, her English teacher wrote “Good job!” encouraging Lena to write throughout her short life.

Lena's greatest insights developed while reading books. As a young person, she was already an adventurer and her fondness for reading and writing stories set Lena on a path of cultural, social, and geographical exploration. As a young adult, she traveled abroad as well as throughout the United States. A gifted and active Native American student, Lena played Suzuki violin, clarinet, soccer, and volleyball. She served as parliamentarian on student council, held officer positions in numerous student clubs, served as a founding member of the local county youth board and teen court before graduating with high honors. Lena once wrote, "I attribute my success to my affinity and love for reading."

Despite health challenges, Lena was known for her willingness to try just about anything. A confident person with great determination, Lena excelled in many endeavors. At the time of her passing, Lena was an International Studies major at Stanford University. Whether exploring the world through books or by booking a flight, Lena envisioned a more socially just world and intended to make social entrepreneurship her life's work.

Lena is dearly missed by many.

Hoofen Floofen Island Children’s Storybook
purchase online
or at these fine stores:

Apostle Island Booksellers
Karlyn Yellowbird Gallery
Amazon

Here is a behind the scenes look at the making of Hoofen Floofen Island.

Monica J Sword

Monica J Sword is the mother of Lena Kay Rufus. Publishing Lena’s story has been her dream even before Lena’s untimely death. Bringing Hoofen Floofen Island to a broader audience has been key to Monica's ability to cope with a devastating loss. Monica also writes stories and musings on living a full life and has found writing and art to be particularly effective for facing grief.

Monica's friendship with Lisa McGinley spans decades of playing with horses, hosting fabulous dinner parties, and traveling the U.S. and Caribbean. Monica spends her days making art on the page and canvas. She misses Lena every day.

Lisa K McGinley

Lisa Kennedy McGinley is inspired by the natural world as well as the humor and charms of human nature. Capturing vignettes in pencil, pen, and paint gives her great pleasure. She was introduced to art at an early age by both her artist parents - a graphic designer and an illustrator/art teacher. Lisa is also an accomplished musician with several recordings. 

Collaborating with friend and fellow artist, Monica Sword, has been a dream come true. They've been close pals for years, sharing many life events and travel adventures. Helping bring Lena's Hoofen Floofen Island to life has been an honor.