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Press Release - March 18, 2009

Nico and Lola by Meggan Hill and Susan M. Graunke

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Local Author, Meggan Hill and Photographer, Susan M. Graunke Share a Message of Kindness at Area Book Stores
Families are Encouraged to Attend Story Time and Signing Events

Barrington, Ill.—March 18, 2009—Author Meggan Hill and photographer Susan M. Graunke will be visiting area bookstores to promote their new picture book, Nico and Lola. According to Heartland Reviews, Nico and Lola, "...Is a precious book...The text emphasizes the importance of being kind and the many ways that one can choose to be kind. The book reinforces responsibility and thoughtfulness."

Hill and Graunke are overwhelmed by the feedback they have received for Nico and Lola. "The real fun for us has been visiting with students at schools throughout the country. The book's message and photographs really seem to strike a chord with children," said Hill. The author and photographer offer workshops and presentations for students from preschool to 5^th grade.

Meet Meggan Hill, Susan M. Graunke and Lola:
10:30am, Apr. 3, 2009, at Crocodile Pie, 866 S. Milwaukee Ave., Libertyville, IL, www.crocodilepie.com
7:00pm, Apr.3, 2009, "Late Night with Lola", at The Magic Tree Bookstore, 141 N Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL. Children can wear their pajamas and bring their favorite stuffed dog to this evening event. www.magictreebooks.com
11:00am, Apr. 4, 2009, at Andersons Bookshop, 123 W Jefferson Ave., Naperville, IL. www.andersonsbookshop.com

The public is invited to attend these free, family friendly events. "This is a great opportunity for families in our community to share a wonderful message and meet a local, professional author and photographer," said Rose Joseph, The Magic Tree Bookstore.

About Nico and Lola

ISBN 978-0-615-23040-5, Publisher: Genuine Prints, LLC
In this touching children's book, a boy named Nico must search his heart for ways to be kind while caring for a little dog named Lola. Tender messages are woven into captivating photographs throughout the story, as a boy and a dog together share kindness.

Every child who learns and shares kindness from a pet has the power to make a difference and make our world a little better place. "It's a big idea coming from just two little beings we hope will resonate in schools, libraries and homes." A book for readers of all ages, this tale reminds each of us we can always be just a little bit kinder in everything we do. A book to read, share and always carry in your heart.

About the Author — Meggan Hill

Meggan Hill learned kindness at an early age, as she grew up taking care of all kinds of animals, from ponies and rabbits to dogs, cats and tadpoles. The manager of an Illinois horse farm, Hill graduated from the University of San Diego with a degree in Psychology. She has two children and feels it is critical to provide meaningful books to young people. She believes kindness can be inspired by anyone, even two little beings like Nico and Lola. This is her first book.

About the Photographer — Susan M. Graunke

Susan M. Graunke practices kindness daily as she takes care of Lola and her other pet dogs, Stella and Devon. Graunke is the founder and owner of Kickapoo Farms and started Cowboy Dreams of Illinois. Graunke graduated from Northern Illinois University and has two grown children. She is an avid golfer and outdoorswoman who began studying photography three years ago.

Both author and photographer have lived in Barrington, Illinois, for more than 10 years where they have worked together. Graunke and Hill also offer school visits and presentations. They enjoy encouraging students to explore the worlds of reading and writing. For more information, check their website: www.nicoandlola.com, or contact Michele Kophs, Event Coordinator at 360.597.3432.

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