Architect Mike W. Smith is building something special for his children. But it doesn't involve a building.

He has drawn up something more spectacular: an imaginary world where Sara, his 10-year-old daughter, is the main character. Her life unfolds each week in elaborate drawings on the brown paper lunch bags she takes to school.

She's the comic book hero of her own story - or at least of his story about her.

Dad figures into the plot sometimes. Mom and brother, too. Occasionally the family dog makes an appearance, and Sara's friends have been known to pop up. The characters go on adventures inside Sara's leaky locker, rescue fairy tale characters from danger and help overcome stage fright for the school talent show.

Read more from our news partners at The Tennessean.