Brogan: A New Book Series For All Ages!

A so-called "Children's Book" that can be enjoyed and treasured by all ages, and passed along for new generations, is something truly special.

From my youth, the Dr. Seuss books certainly fit that description as did the books written by Tomie dePaola among other notable writers. When I open a book and read the first page, I can immediately sense whether I feel a connection with what the author is trying to say. I can also be instantly transported back to being a wide-eyed youngster, receiving a special book for a birthday or holiday, and starting to read it for the first of what will be innumerable readings. That's what recently happened when I sat down and read, A Home for Mr. Higgins and Mr. Higgins Takes a Stand.

These first two books, in what promises to be a new series, are co-authored by David Preece and Jim Webber, two area residents with impressive credentials.

These books are warmly winning and filled with humor, pathos, heart and a message that will connect with everyone. Based on their own personal experience with a black Scottish terrier who they christened, "Mr. Higgins", these lovingly written books will instantly make the reader feel they have found a special "home" and not want the story to end. Fortunately, a third book will be coming out this Spring.

Preece and Webber have deep ties to the area. David Preece, although he grew-up in another part of the country, has made New Hampshire his home for many years. He is a distinguished author and playwright as well as having written a number of screenplays. More recently he was the executive director and CEO of the Southern New Hampshire Planning Commission. He is also currently serving his second term in the New Hampshire House of Representatives.

Jim Webber grew-up in the Concord area, attended school in Boston and is co-author of an award-winning play, Judy's Scary Little Christmas. He works for Concord TV, has produced documentary films and is presently the President of the Community Players of Concord, an organization with which he has been affiliated for many years. Both David and Jim sang and danced with the legendary Carol Channing during her two concert appearances in New Hampshire in 2007 and 2008.

Jim and David will be making an appearance at Concord's Gibson's Bookstore on Saturday, January 11 at 11 AM. There will be a reading from the books and copies will be available for sale and the authors will happily sign them.

Celebrated author, Margaret Porter and I currently co-host a program for Concord TV entitled, Turning Pages. Recently David Preece and Jim Webber were guests on the program and delightfully talked about their latest writing venture. Here is a link to what turned out to be an amazing half hour of television: Meet Mr. Higgins

These two books are not just for gifting someone for a special occasion. These are books that will become a valuable part of your home library and should be read and enjoyed for many years to come.