Loowit's Legend By Erin O'Connell

Loowit's Legend is the tale of two brothers, Pahtoe and Wy’East, who compete for the love of a beautiful maiden named Loowit.  In doing so, they defy the Great Spirit’s wishes and set the stage for the creation of the three of the Pacific Northwest's most notable mountains.

This beautifully-illustrated, 32-page children's book recounts the historic, local legend about the origins of Mt. Hood, Mt. Adams, and Mt. Saint Helens.  The book includes an educational inset that teaches children about the unique cultural heritage of the region and provides even more learning opportunities throughout the website.

Loowit's Legend is a unique, local folk tale, complete with a valuable lesson for children.  With regional references on every page, this book is sure to become a local treasure and a popular souvenir throughout Oregon, Washington, and the Pacific NW.  A percentage of proceeds from the sale of every book will be donated to land conservation efforts throughout the region.

About the Author

Hood River, Oregon resident, Erin O'Connell has long been an outdoor enthusiast with a love for the mountains and forests of Pacific Northwest.

She has spent many of the last 15 years exploring the natural wonders of Oregon and Washington and enjoys skiing, biking, mountaineering, and camping.  She settled in Hood River in 2005, where she and her fiance enjoy easy access to the river, bike trails, ski slopes, and more.

Erin was particularly captivated by the legend of the Columbia River Gorge, which her Aunt relayed to her at a young age.  Over a period of many years, she would see the legend referenced in guidebooks and brochures, and she developed the idea to create an illustrated children's book that could be shared more easily with future generations.  In 2010, Erin set out to create the book.

Erin has an MBA in Marketing from the University of Oregon, and Marketing and Advertising degrees from Michigan State University.  She is an active supporter of wildlife and land conservation efforts in the region.