Local authors take the spotlight at Holyoke bookstore
HOLYOKE — 23 local authors will meet readers and sign books at the Holyoke Barnes & Noble on Saturday, Aug. 2, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., during the store's Summer Author Expo .
Writers from many genres — including children's books and business guides — will be featured. All have ties to the region.
One of the authors is Mychal Connolly Jr., also known as The Realistic CEO . When a high school teacher told him becoming a CEO was "unrealistic," he used that doubt as motivation. Now, he's a published author and business leader.
Connolly co-wrote a children's book called "I Am a CEO. Realistic CEO," which encourages kids to believe in themselves. The story follows Tony, a boy from Dreamville who works hard to reach his goal of becoming a CEO.
"It's really about believing in yourself, making a plan and putting in the work," Connolly said.
He said he's excited to be part of the expo because it shows young people — especially those who look like him — that becoming an author is possible.
"When I was younger, I didn't see many authors who were teenagers or who looked like me," he said. "Now I get to be in a space with other writers and meet readers face to face. That's powerful."
Connolly Jr. will have 100 copies of his book available at the event and hopes to meet many families, sign books and inspire others to write their own stories.
Also attending is LaTonia Monroe-Naylor, a Springfield School Committee member. She will share her book "Mission Rich and Profit-Powered: A Guide to Transforming Your Passion into a Fully Funded Business."
"Events like this matter," Monroe-Naylor said. "People often overlook the inspiring, important work happening right in their own communities."
She said her book is based on 20 years of experience and offers a fun and practical guide to success.
Springfield School Committee Member and Author, LaTonia Monroe Naylor is one of 23 local authors coming together at Barnes & Noble in Holyoke for a special event where they'll share their books and meet readers on Aug. 2. (Anthony Marques Photo) Courtesy of Invisible Productions
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