“In "Crayon Dawn," Sharla invites readers on an evocative journey along the Gulf of Mexico, where each morning walk transforms into a quest for life's deeper meaning. Through 64 heartfelt essays, Sharla captures the essence of dawn's early light, interwoven with her reflections on existence, creativity, and connection. Accompanied by breathtaking photographs of the sun’s first blush over the tranquil waters, this collection is both a tribute to the beauty of nature and an exploration of personal insight.

Growing up with a vibrant box of 64 crayons, Sharla cherished her magenta crayon for its rich, unapologetic color. Now, she brings that same passion for vivid expression to her writing, offering readers a chance to experience the world through her eyes. Each essay and photograph in "Crayon Dawn" serves as a reminder that inspiration can be found in the quiet moments of everyday life, and that the search for meaning is as colorful and diverse as the dawn itself.

Perfect for those who seek solace in the natural world or those simply in need of a reminder to pause and appreciate life's fleeting beauty, "Crayon Dawn" is a celebration of color, clarity, and the profound impact of a new day.”

— Michael Ryan

“The universe is full of invisible and seemingly disconnected dots. But somehow Sharla’s eyes can see them. And then with apparent effortlessness, she weaves them together into verbal tapestries that give the rest of us a peek into the colorful universe that speaks to her every morning in her own little awe-inspiring backyard on the Gulf of Mexico. Crayon Dawn is a guided tour through that wonderland, and Sharla has invited us all for a visit.”

— J.S.

“Written with honesty, grace and courage, Crayon Dawn is a gift of pure inspiration. Sharla’s reflections on the pain and sorrow of her soul-crushing losses are offset by an impassioned sharing of her whimsically touching healing odyssey. Crayon Dawn reminds us of a simple yet profound truth: hardship in life can make us bitter or better. The choice is always ours to make each day.”

— Lenai

“Every Gulf Coast home needs a copy of the gorgeous Crayon Dawn, and you're going to want to get more for gifts as well. If you've ever wondered why the beach sunrise is so gloriously red and orange, while the midday sky is dreamy blue, or why you feel so peaceful at the beach, or why the sand is sugar white, this book will teach you, all while providing equal measures of hope and optimism. It's more than just a coffee table book of incredible beach photography -- it's 64 stories you'll find yourself going back to again and again, to learn, to feel, to be inspired. For everyone who loves the beach and loves the beautiful, broken truth of life, Crayon Dawn is for you.”

— Lisa

“A beach escape

A collection of stunning images and thoughtful insights that cause you to think, reflect and pause.

The beauty of Pensacola Beach wherever you are

The images stop you in your tracks and the stories invite you to stay a while.”

— Casey

“A routine occurrence, the morning sunrise, becomes an evolution of color under the watch of Sharla Dawn.  Her whimsical interpretations and ability to see way beyond the obvious is spellbinding and her 64 pages of colorful depictions will capture you, as they captured me. I read the entire book in almost one sitting! Something as simple as a set of 64 crayons and the morning dawn are anything BUT simple as you will see in this beautiful coffee table book! What a gift!!!”

— Beverly