Holiday Children's Book Festival

Authors: Adam Houchins, Leigh Anne Fortner, Deborah Kuster

Join us for a very special storytime featuring 3 local authors and their children's books.

Leigh Anne Fortner is a Speech-Language Pathologist and children’s book author. Her knowledge of language and childhood development, combined with her creativity, has
enabled her to produce heart-warming stories that inspire young children to learn and grow. Leigh Anne hopes to create a positive impact on others by donating all net proceeds from her books to local nonprofits in her community. She resides in Conway, Arkansas and is the mother of two little bookworms. Her web site is www.spreadthelightbooks.com. In her latest beautifully illustrated book about transformation, a tiny seed is just starting her life in the desert. It seems that nothing can survive in such a harsh environment, or at least that’s what she is led to believe. Follow along as Mariposa grows and transforms, learning that we are each created with purpose and love. 

Adam Houchins is a father of four children and an uncle to two, and they will always inspire him. Houchins is currently a graduate student at Arkansas State University, and he is from Jacksonville, Arkansas. He is a veteran of the U.S. Army and has been to twenty-four countries. Houchins is also an avid sports fan and a history buff. Sharing a pond, Cathy the Catfish and Sammy the Swan become good friends. This is the story of their friendship and a memorable life lesson. Giving children a platform to think, ask questions, and learn, author Adam Houchins hopes this book will creaee sbmiles and family bonds.

Deborah Kuster's art is made from her personally, hand-woven textiles. "I have been involved in the field of art education for forty years, with experience in teaching all ages in schools, museums, and community centers. I completed my PhD degree in Art Education from the University of North Texas and began my tenure at the University of Central Arkansas in the fall of 2003, with an emphasis on professional development for pre-service and practicing art teachers. I am now Professor Emeritus, having retired in 2019. I authored and illustrated a children's picture book, Jake the Deer-Hearted, with Kharis Publishing in fall of 2022." Her web site is www.deborahkuster.com. 

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