Story Time & Book Signing with Mary Wagley Copp — YOSHI'S BIG SWIM — July 29 from 1 to 3 p.m.

Ink Fish Books welcomes author Mary Wagley Copp for a story time and book signing of the picture book, Yoshi’s Big Swim: One Turtle’s Epic Journey Home.

The story time begins at 1 p.m., followed a brief presentation about loggerheads, and then a meet and greet with the author.

About the Book

Yoshi’s Big Swim chronicles the impressive true story of Yoshi, a loggerhead turtle who was rescued by fishermen, then rehabilitated and cared for by scientists for many years. The scientists adored her, and Yoshi was happy in her aquarium home. But then, many years later, Yoshi let them know that it was time for her to move on. Would Yoshi be safe? Would she know what to do? After lots of preparation—and plenty of friendly back scratches for Yoshi—the determined loggerhead set off on her journey.

By Mary Wagley Copp, and illustrated by Kaja Kajfež.

About the Author

Just like Yoshi, Mary Wagley Copp loves to travel. She has taught in Ecuador, organized health fairs in Appalachia, and traveled to Ethiopia to produce a documentary film. Although not nearly as impressive as Yoshi, Mary also loves open water swimming—a joy that reaffirms her commitment to clean and healthy waters for all who love and inhabit the oceans. In addition to writing for children, Mary teaches English to newcomers in her area. She lives in Westport, Massachusetts, with her husband, Allyn, their pup, Rosa, and a lot of chickens! They have three grown children.

Books will be available for purchase at the event, and in store.

Story Time & Book Signing with Susan Joyce — BILLY THE RESCUE DOG — April 15 from 1 to 3 p.m.

Join Ink Fish Books as we welcome local author Susan Joyce for a story time and book signing of the picture book, Billy the Rescue Dog. And lucky for us, Susan will be accompanied by the real Billy! 

The story time takes place from 1 to 1:30 p.m., and afterwards Susan and Billy will meet readers and sign books.

About the Book

Billy the Rescue Dog is the true story of Billy, the Treeing Walker Coonhound, who finds a “forever home” on Maggie’s Farm in Rhode Island. The story tells of Billy’s adventures and challenges as he embarks on his new life with a black Lab named Oliver; two cats, Luke and Hazel; three goats, Aria, Gus, and Gwendolyn; and 18 chickens. As Billy learns that he is safe and loved, he gains confidence and begins to find things. His tracking skills become critically important when a chicken goes missing.

About the Author

Susan Joyce has enjoyed a career in magazine publishing, leading the marketing departments of brands such as Parents and Parents Latina magazines. She loves writing about life on Maggie’s Farm with dogs, cats, goats, and chickens. Billy’s story was the first to unfold as a children’s book, however a prequel is in the works.

About the Illustrator

Thea Ernest is one of those people who drew as a child and never stopped. Billy the Rescue Dog was Thea’s first experience with book illustration. It was also her first experience painting curious goats, spunky chickens, territorial cats, and brave dogs. An avid plein air painter and Rhode Island resident, you can see more of Thea’s work at TheaErnestArtist.com and on Instagram @theaernestdesign.

Books will be available for purchase at the event, and in store.  A portion of the proceeds from the book sales will be donated to the Warren Dog Park.