An Evening with Lisa Johnston Hancock: Stars and Stories

It's time to celebrate Santiago and Great Bear!

Join us at The Haunted Book Shop on June 30th at 5:30PM for a launch party honoring Lisa Johnston Hancock and her debut children's book, Santiago and Great Bear. In her stirring narrative, Hancock introduces us to Santiago, a young boy adjusting to his new life in the countryside. Through lyrical prose and engaging illustrations, readers experience the magical and unlikely friendship between Santiago and a celestial visitor, the Great Bear, cast from the constellation Ursa Major.

At the party, adults and children alike will enjoy a meet-and-greet with the author, be entertained as the author reads the book to her young fans, and have their copy signed by the author. Join us as we raise a toast to Lisa Johnston Hancock and celebrate the release of this delightful and heartfelt book.

About Santiago and Great Bear
Santiago and Great Bear tells the story of Santiago, a city boy who feels lonely after moving to the countryside. At the sight of the only constellation he knows, Santiago wishes for a new friend. When he is losing hope his wish will ever come true, Great Bear falls from the sky. But this new friend can’t stay forever. In this beautiful tale of friendship and silver linings, debut author-illustrator Lisa Johnston Hancock uses a limited, lyrical palette, that perfectly matches the sparse text. The story also includes an informational component, in which the phases of the moon are explored through illustrations. Back matter is included to further examine constellations, specifically Ursa Major, also known as The Great Bear and the use of stars for navigational purposes. When Great Bear arrives, Santiago shows kindness and responsible decision making by helping him return to the sky. Santiago’s relationship with Great Bear later gives him the confidence to talk to Mia, his new best friend at the end of the book, blending SEL and STEM themes in a heartwarming, socially relevant way. Readers learn about the beginnings and endings of moon phases, and friendships.

Bring the littles for an evening on the town at The Haunted Book Shop!

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