It is a change to have local students heading back to school in August but we are looking forward to having First Friday before Labor Day. You may ask “why”? Our excitement is due to having our September feature focus on a children’s book written, illustrated and published by Worcester county residents. What better time to celebrate children’s literature as school starts! What better time to celebrate the creative arts of our community!
Pumpernickel Goes There is a charming book about a curious cat who wants to explore There, the world where Barky goes. There holds many mysteries for this gray kitty who needs courage to go beyond the Swinging Wall. This book is a “first ” for both the writer, TJ Myers, and the illustrator, Olga Deshields, both residents of the Snow Hill area. Myers has written poetry and fiction. It is his background as a retired veterinarian that provides insight to write his first children’s book about the determination of cats to explore the world.
Deshields, a self-taught artist, is known for painting and restoring murals and decorating window art on many storefronts in Snow Hill. It may be her face painting at local events that provides the simple touch of fantasy that created Pumpernickel’s identity. This is the first time she has been an illustrator for a book. Myers’ sweet story and Deshields’ simple illustrations make this a joy for children from birth to 6. Added to this storytelling collaboration is the publisher, Salt Water Media in Berlin. Myers’ publicity photograph is by Tony Weeg, a Berlin resident with a studio in Salisbury.
On Friday, September 4, Bishop’s Stock will host a release celebration for Pumpernickel Goes There. The evening will include a book reading by Myers starting at 6 pm. Deshields’ original artwork will be displayed and offered for sale. Books will be sold with both Myers and Deshields signing and personalizing. Pumpernickel Goes There is also sold by Caprichos Books in Snow Hill and other independant bookstores in the area.
