“It was my goal for many years to publish a coffee table book, and initially felt overwhelmed by the possibilities. I knew I needed the editorial and design support from a publishing company, but had strong opinions on many visual elements that I knew could be usurped by a traditional publishing model. In this research phase, I discovered Ballast Books through the National Veterans Memorial and Museum, as they had recently published The Twenty-Year War. The quality and visual appeal of that book, alongside feeling comfortable that my military theme would fit into their library, prompted me to inquire.
I immediately felt at home and excited at the “hybrid” model Ballast Books uses. Every step of the way, they provided high level professional support, while honoring my vision for the project. Their meticulous attention to detail and expertise helped the book to be elevated beyond what I thought it could be. Everyone on the team made the experience outstanding- from vision casting to editing, design, logistics, strategy, and marketing, I’m so glad I worked with Ballast Books on this project!”
Kristin (Otterson) Cronic is an artist and United States Naval Academy (USNA) graduate. She has a BS in naval architecture and was commissioned as a Surface Warfare Officer in 2011. She served as a naval officer until 2017, deploying twice on ships. Kristin pursued an informal art education in her free time. She has dedicated recent years to documenting the midshipman’s journey through painting under the alias “Easel on Stribling,” painting over 150 pieces about USNA. She has an MFA in visual art from Jacksonville University. She resides in Florida with her husband, Caleb, and their three children.
