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Press Release - February 25, 2009

New Books Reminds Children, Families to Give and Live Kindness

Author Meggan Hill and Photographer Susan M. Graunke explore kindness through the eyes and experiences of a young boy and a dog who learn how to be kind in their new children’s book titled Nico and Lola.

CARPENTERSVILLE, Ill – February 25, 2009 – Current events in our country, including the recent economic crisis, have created a "ripple effect" of confusion and uncertainty felt by many parents and children. Many enjoyable family activities have intentionally been put on hold while parents attempt to navigate their way through a difficult period, desperate to sustain and regain some sense of normalcy for those around them.

First-time author Meggan Hill believes that normalcy exists in every family and can be found through every day activities like reading uplifting stories and enjoying the simple things in life, such as petting your dog and taking him for a walk. The benefits of reading to a child are endless: but right now it is an ideal way for parents to reduce stress, bond with their children and reinforce stability. Positive activities such as spending time with a pet are great for children, contributing positively to the development of purpose, responsibility and the real value in being kind to those you love.

Stories that identify and demonstrate traditional values with well intended messages and character actions are something author, Meggan Hill, believes are missing today in most children’s books. "We need more books on basic family values like how we can all be just a little bit kinder." Hill says. "Kindness is a learned behavior and is the most important character trait we can pass on to our children." Hill believes that now, more than ever, "Each child and every family should try to remember that when you give kindness, you live kindness."

In Nico and Lola, a young boy must search his heart for ways to be kind while caring for an adorable dog, who has recently been put in his care. As Nico gives more of himself, he learns that being kind is his responsibility and that he must continue to seek kindness in everyone and in all things around him. The love that grows between a boy and a dog is evident in Susan M. Graunke's carefully-chosen photographs. The book emphasizes that kindness begins at any age and knows no boundaries. Susan says, "We believe in Nico and Lola and hope this story resonates with every child and every parent, grandparent, teacher and child caregiver."

The author and photographer published Nico and Lola, to serve as a positive example that kindness happens at any age. Turning each page of Nico and Lola reminds each of us that we all have the power and ability to make our world a better place.

For more information please visit nicoandlola.com, contact the author Meggan Hill at meggan@nicoandlola.com or Lori Magee at Lori@fifty1north.com. Nico and Lola is available for sale online at nicoandlola.com and Amazon.com and through additional retail and wholesale channels.

About the Author
Meggan Hill grew up surrounded by animals. She learned kindness at an early age while taking care of ponies, ducks, cats, dogs and pigs. Hill graduated from the University of San Diego with a degree in Psychology and currently manages a horse farm. She has two children and enjoys raising them in the presence of many loved animals. Meggan feels it is critical to provide meaningful books to young minds and young hearts. She believes kindness can be inspired by anyone, even a wiggly, cute, little pug. This is her first book.

About the Photographer
Susan M. Graunke is the owner of Kickapoo Farms. She is a graduate of Northern Illinois University and is an avid golfer and outdoorswoman. She began studying photography three years ago and has two grown children, Jerry and Madeline. She practices kindness daily as she cares for all of her beloved dogs. Susan adds, "Shooting the book was extremely challenging with two lively subjects, but I loved every minute of it!"

About Nico and Lola
Nico and Lola still enjoy time together playing tag, sharing special snacks and taking naps on their favorite blanket. They continue to be the very best kind of friends.

About Genuine Prints, LLC.
Genuine Prints, LLC is a contemporary book publisher for emerging, self-published authors, featuring children’s books.

EDITORS: For review copies or interview requests, contact:
Meggan Hill /Lori Magee
(888) 853-0001 /(847) 809-5323
E-Mail: meggan@nicoandlola.com / Lori@fifty1north.com
When requesting a review copy, please provide a street address.