Cheryl VanEngen is a fourth grade teacher in Mattawan, Michigan. Her first children's book, As You Grow, is the story of two young hummingbirds who learn an important lesson about interdependence and humility from an unlikely source. Cheryl's appreciation of nature and her commitment to helping young people become active stewards of natural spaces inspire her work.  As You Grow was a collaborative endeavor with area illustrator and arts educator Kim Shaw; it was made possible with a KADI Grant from the Arts Council of Greater Kalamazoo.

Cheryl lives in Kalamazoo with her husband (area musician Jay Gavan), their son Will, and their very sweet dog Mavis.