Cleudis Robbins grew up in the 1930’s coal mining camps of southeastern Kentucky.  His Appalachian roots run deep with most of his extended family still residing in the same place his ancestors inhabited for hundreds of years. He lived the life of the characters of The Burying Man and had a deep love and affection for the land. A natural born storyteller, Cleudis was working on a second novel set in Appalachia—a sequel to The Burying Man—when he passed away unexpectedly in November 2012.

Janene Nielsen is a freelance journalist and public affairs media director for a non-profit group. She teamed up with her father Cleudis Robbins to create The Burying Man. The customs, beliefs and rituals of old Appalachia hold a special fascination for her and take center stage in the story. She credits her beloved grandmother Guynith Hawkins, an original “coal miner’s daughter,” with much of the wit and wisdom found in the pages of The Burying Man.

Michelle R Metcalfe, illustrator—The love of Appalachia, so evident in The Burying Man, inspired Michelle’s drawings. “There is a dignity in everyday items,” says Michelle. “The grace and beauty of an old leather shoe, well-worn by its owner, tells a story all its own.” Michelle Metcalfe lives in Salt Lake City, Utah, with her husband. Besides painting and drawing, she enjoys visiting with her children and grandchildren and traveling.