The Bristol Press – Bristol Public Library has announced two upcoming events for authors
BRISTOL – The Bristol Public Library has announced two upcoming author events next month, featuring New York Times bestselling author Marie Benedict and Connecticut author and vet Melissa Shapiro, including the blind and deaf dog ‘Piglet’ is featured in inspirational events.
The Author Program with Marie Benedict will be held virtually via Zoom at 6:30 p.m. on February 17.
“She writes historical fiction, usually about strong female characters,” said Scott Stanton, deputy director of the Bristol Public Library. “His latest book is about Andrew Carnegie’s personal librarian. For this event, we will be offering autographed copies of his books as door prizes. When people register for the event, they will be able to submit questions via email Following her presentation, I will ask Marie these questions from the audience.
Deborah Prozzo, library manager at Bristol Public Library, said Marie Benedict’s books are the most read books in the library’s book discussion groups.
“We have several copies of his latest book, The Personal Librarian, in the library along with his other titles,” Prozzo said.
Those who participate in the Virtual Author Program on February 17 will also be able to pick up a Southern-themed goodie bag that includes a snapshot. This way, participants can enjoy Benedict’s favorite meal, shrimp and grits, while following the program.
Additionally, the library has scheduled an in-person event for February 19 at 2 p.m. at the Bristol Public Library. Melissa Shapiro and rescue dog Piglet will be on hand for this book talk. Piglet is a pink dachshund and chihuahua mix who was rescued from a hoarding situation in Georgia and was born deaf and blind. Shapiro will demonstrate the means by which she is able to communicate with the dog via tapping.
Stanton said Shapiro will also discuss how Piglet has become an inspiration to many – showing them that they can “overcome anything”.
“He’s a very nice little guy,” Stanton said. “That should be a lot of fun.”
Stanton said Shapiro, who is an author from Connecticut, used the dog as inspiration to create “The Piglet Mindset”, which she defines as follows:
. Face challenges with a positive attitude.
. Focus on what you have and move beyond what you don’t have.
. Accept individuals for who they are and include them despite their differences.
. Have empathy and understanding for others and follow up with positive actions.
. Be kind to all people and animals
Prozzo added that Shapiro’s books will be available for purchase and signing at this event.
“We are very happy to welcome them,” she said. “Piglet has become a celebrity. Melissa celebrated her fifth birthday yesterday with her other rescue dogs. It was very endearing.”
The Bristol Public Library is located at 5 High St.
To register for these programs, visit bristollib.com or call 860-584-7787.
Brian M. Johnson can be reached at 860-973-1806 or bjohnson@bristolpress.com.
