Local Author Fair: Meet the Teen & Children’s Authors
There’s something special about reading a book that feels close to home. Not just emotionally, but geographically—where childhood experiences, world events and pop culture reading trends became the inspiration to generations of writers. That’s exactly what makes local authors so important. They capture the rhythms of our communities, preserve regional voices and remind us that meaningful stories don’t only come from big cities or bestseller lists—they’re being written right here by our neighbors.
On Saturday, September 19, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., we are hosting our Local Author Fair. This isn’t just a chance to browse books. It’s an opportunity to meet the people behind them—the authors who draw inspiration from the experiences that connect us all.
Leading up to our event, we are featuring the authors who look forward to sharing their books and experiences with you at the fair. Get to know them now!
Michael Beck
Book Title: Peter Dragonovich: The Grand Young Wizard
Synopsis: This Teen fantasy tells the story of Peter, a young wizard with amazing intellect and talent, who travels the world of Zemmera in search of a cure for his best friend’s sister’s illness. Follow Peter on his journey as he discovers the world around him through his own eyes, instead of his books.
Eimileanne Delaney
Book Title: These Ashes Are My Grandma?
Synopsis: It’s almost Grandparents’ Day at Emme’s school. Who will she bring? Journey with Emme as she learns a little more about what it is like to remember, connect with and grieve a loved one who has died.
Megan Deliberto
Book Title: Garbage Squirrel
From the Author: I based my most recent picture book on a strange incident at the zoo when a squirrel barreled out of a garbage can, ran up my son’s arm and then back down the other. When we later spoke with an employee about it, they told us that their squirrels and raccoons can be very aggressive. From there, the story of the angry zoo squirrel was born.
Maribel Demkowicz
Book Title: Marble the Hermit Crab Says Just Because
Synopsis: In this cute picture book, Marble clears up common misconceptions by sharing what makes him happy and healthy. Along the way, readers discover a sweet hidden message about understanding and compassion. The story encourages kids to embrace differences, look beyond first impressions and learn from the world around them.
Megan Elizabeth
Book Title: Treading Water (Teen Fiction)
Synopsis: Sawyer just got into her dream college and is ready for an epic summer. Noah is struggling to get by since his mom died. And after seeing what’s on the other side of love, he has no appetite for a relationship. But when these two meet, they can’t deny the sparks flying between them. Can they come together and find something they didn’t even know they were looking for?
Phyllis Girdwood
Genre: Children’s Activity Book
Synopsis: My book features over 50 fun activities for preschoolers! These low-cost learning experiences apply to a variety of concepts and can be used as stand-alone activities or to reinforce, complement or supplement existing curricula and programs. All of the activities have been tested in class, group and individual settings.
Addy Holmes
Genres: Children’s & Teen Fiction and Non-fiction
From the Author: All my books contain a little bit of me in all of them. I love to take my readers on a journey, and each book cleverly incorporates at least three educational elements. I enjoy writing books that spark curiosity and conversations. My students are my biggest fans!
Kevin Rodgers
Book Title: Mason Gideon and the Caves of Fate
Synopsis: In this middle-grade fantasy, Mason Gideon wakes on his thirteenth birthday to discover destiny has something spectacular in mind for him. So much for a simple birthday hanging out with his friends or getting closer to Elizabeth Covington, the girl he’s had a crush on for as long as he can remember.
Brenda Schmidt
Book Title: She Heard Her Footsteps (Picture Book)
Synopsis: Join Lily as she navigates her world and discovers the joy of new sounds with her brand-new hearing aids. With each sound she uncovers, Lily learns to appreciate the beauty of her world in a whole new way and shares her discoveries with her family and friends. This story is based on the author’s own experiences.
Milagros Wallace
Book Genre: Children’s Books/Bilingual
From the Author: My books celebrate family, culture, language and the beauty of embracing who we are. Through heartfelt stories and colorful characters, readers are encouraged to value kindness, confidence and curiosity. Many of my stories are bilingual, allowing children and families to connect through both Spanish and English!
