Join us here at the Canterbury for a local author Meet & Greet on Saturday, May 4th at 1:00pm. We will be closing out Children’s Book Week and kicking-off Reading Month with U.P. author Gretchen Preston. Her hour-long presentation” So, You Want to Be a Writer” is suitable for wanna-be writers of all ages. If you have a story idea, half written book in a drawer, song in your heart or fashion yourself the next poet laureate, join Gretchen for her inspiring presentation. An accidental author herself, Preston was inspired by her love of our U.P. backyard as the setting for her popular Valley Cat series of children’s chapter books. Her hard cover books are beautifully illustrated by Karin Neumann.
Gretchen, being visually impaired since age eleven, composes her stories on a talking computer. When the stories are complete, Gretchen and Karin design the illustrations and horizon book covers. The Valley Cat books are not just for kids. Adults will enjoy the humor, life lessons and fun-filled adventures of the neighborhood cats.
Not just for cat lovers! Gretchen is always escorted by her seven-year old black lab named Floyd. He is a working Leader Dog for the Blind. Floyd has been socialized to accept petting when he is not actively guiding Gretchen. Together they volunteer for local Lions clubs, give presentations about Leader Dogs for the Blind in Rochester Hills, Michigan and promote local literature by sharing her Valley Cat books. Her books are available at the Canterbury Book Store and she will be happy to personalize your purchased books at the event.
Preston golfing while her Leader dog Floyd enjoys a rest.
Gretchen’s presentation style is interactive. Attendees will have the opportunity to type on her talking computer, pet Floyd and hear a tale about her Valley Cats. She is sure to get your creative juices flowing and to inspire you to start writing as soon as you get home. You will leave with the tricks of the trade, the tools to keep you writing and the inspiration to complete your work.
Don’t miss this high-spirited presentation the first Saturday in May at the Canterbury Book Store at 1:00pm. Share our love of cats, dogs and the creative process. Fun is guaranteed for the entire family!