An Oconto-based children’s book author will debut her two new books at a launch party Sunday.
Annie Frances will read excerpts and sign books from 3-5 p.m. Aug. 23 at The Sim Links, 908 Main St., Oconto.
Frances, aka Annette Boehmer, grew up on a 100-year-old family homestead in Oconto County where tall tales were a part of life. A lifelong student of history and family legends, she writes with a deep reverence for the past and the quiet lessons it has left behind.
“I wanted to write stories from the homestead and make them fun for everyone to read,” Frances said. “Boys tend to be reluctant readers, so that’s why I chose a boy to be the protagonist in the story.”
“The Treasure of the Thistle Tree” tells the story of an intergenerational friendship between Oliver the Fourth, age 12, and his companion, Mr. Peppercorn, age 99. Full of adventure, “The Treasure of the Thistle Tree” is the first book in a series for middle grades.
“MoChePo” (short for Monkey, Cheetah and Polar bear) is a children’s picture book. This story follows Mimi the monkey and Chase the cheetah as they journey from the polar caps to South America, the grasslands and Wisconsin to help Panuk the polar bear find home.
“The story brings together such different personalities, but all of the characters belong together,” Frances said. “Kids can learn that it’s OK to be different from other kids.”
Anyone who attends the launch party can meet the author and get a signed copy of her children’s books. Books will also be available for purchase after Aug. 23 at the author’s website, www.anniefrancespen.com.
