After nearly four decades in the biopharmaceutical industry, Lansdale resident Janice Nissen never expected her next chapter to involve children’s books. But a lost ball, a quiet creek, and a new role as a grandmother sparked an idea that became Lizbeth, the Little Lost Golf Ball.

Nissen began golfing more often after retirement and became familiar with the frustration of lost balls. One day, while searching for one of her own, she picked up another stray and wondered about the life of the little ball; where it had been and what it had seen. The question clicked: could a lost golf ball have a story to tell?

That spark grew into a full children’s book. In the story, Lizbeth the golf ball embarks on her first round of golf, guided by animated golf clubs that teach her the basics of the game and life lessons along the way.

For Nissen, the book also reflects a broader goal of encouraging kids to unplug. She summed it up with a line that stuck: getting children off the screens and on the greens. Golf, she told MONTCO Today, offers a rare mix of outdoor activity, focus, patience, and connection — qualities that can be hard to foster in a screen-heavy world.

By introducing the game through a story, she hopes children see golf not as something intimidating, but as a chance to be outside, learn at their own pace, and build relationships. It’s less about perfect swings and more about enjoying nature, improving over time, and sharing an experience with family and friends.

Aimed at children ages three to eight, and early readers up to ten, the book emphasizes patience, resilience, friendship, and self-improvement. Nissen also weaves in themes of diversity and encourages young girls to see themselves in the sport.

Beyond the book, Nissen is now training as a First Tee coach, helping introduce local children to golf and its values.

To find the nearest store, and find Nissen at her next book signing, visit Lizbeth, the Little Lost Golf Ball.