BOOK & ANIMATED FILM - Winter 2024/25


*Snow Day*—A Yellowstone Country Adventure is a middle-grade illustrated graphic novel and animated short film set in Montana's Yellowstone Country.

When a surprise snowstorm cuts the power to nine-year-old Torrey's family cabin, she becomes fearful and isolated from her family. To quell her anxiety about being alone in a remote Montana mountain range, she pulls a dusty "Snow Day" book off the shelf and becomes immersed in the mysterious book's imaginative realism. The wilderness isn't what she thought it was—and she is more resilient than she knows.  

Torrey must navigate many obstacles and self-doubt, crossing the harsh but beautiful Yellowstone in the winter to return to her family.

Will she return transformed or remain trapped in a beautiful but dangerous land?

This coming-of-age story of imagination, resilience, and determination is a unique blend of realism and fantasy, drawing inspiration from the imaginative storytelling style of Studio Ghibli. The author's hand-drawn illustrations, inspired by family explorations in Montana and Yellowstone National Park, bring this world to life.

Made in Montana Fine Art Animation Teaser

Real People. Real Places. Unreal Experiences.

Animation Process

Bryan Schaeffer, a seasoned author, illustrator, and lead animator, is the creative force behind The Last Best Trails illustrated guidebook series for Montana's Yellowstone Country. His work Has been recognized with numerous awards, including Bozeman Magazine's public choice awards for best local book and best local author. As a motion graphics designer and creative director for Studio SINTR®, he has won three regional Emmy Awards for television campaigns and advertising, and national live event awards for excellence in design.

Bryan's dedication to his craft and his love for adventure is evident in his work and his life in Bozeman with his wife, daughter, and Glen Doodle Loki.

 

Hike, Bike & SKI 100 Classic Montana Yellowstone Country Trails locations from the film!