Acquisitions Editor

Anne Fleck received a BA in Literature. Naturally she became both a nanny and a barista after graduating from Northwestern College in Orange City, IA. After a long and wandering path full of espresso and tantrums (the children’s not hers), she accidentally edited her mother’s novel when her mom asked for her opinion. Thrilled that there was a career in which people wanted her to tell them what to do and how to make their stories better, she began freelance editing. About five years later she realized that while she helped her authors achieve their publishing goals, many of the ones who wrote about the Midwest had a harder path. Publishing houses are largely situated on the coast and often sent back notes about the dubious believability of certain aspects of their stories—often the parts that were based in life in the Midwest. She decided that it was a shame her authors had to change and adapt these bits of truth to suit someone else’s idea of their homes. After much debate, hesitation, and conversation, Tom Walker and Anne Fleck formed Midwestern Books.

Anne lives in a small town in Iowa with her mom, dad, husband, two children, and two dogs. Her creative process continues to be sprinkled with the tantrums of children, however she has switched from espresso to tea.

Marketing Editor

Lisa Pelissier is a homeschool mother of four and self-published author of chapter books for children, teens, and young adults. Lisa owns SneakerBlossom Books, offering Christian, classical homeschool study guides and curriculum.

Lisa graduated from Biola University in 1992 with a B.A. in Christian Education with dual emphases in music and elementary education. Lisa worked as an editor and analyst for Kelley Blue Book for 26 years before devoting herself to writing. In her spare time Lisa enjoys making art, playing the piano, and singing.

Managing Editor

Inspired by his seven beautiful grandchildren, Tom writes books for children and youth. “I believe children's literature plays a vital role in developing courageous and hopeful people. I've always delighted in opportunities to interact with young people because I learn so much from them. Now my passion is to share what wisdom I can through stories designed to delight and encourage,” he says.

Over the years, Tom has done many different things. He’s been a pastor for some wonderful congregations. He’s led librarians in the struggle to integrate physical and digital resources. He’s managed technology teams supporting campus-wide information systems. He’s worked with his wife to raise a family that makes him proud and thankful. And he’s had some splendid friends.

“However,” he says, “there is always more while life endures. So with my grandchildren in mind, I'll tell some stories hoping they serve to share joy, hope, and inspiration for young and, perhaps, old.”

Tom passed away in December, 2024, after a brief battle with pancreatic cancer.