Authors, Authors!

Luncheon Raises Funds for Reach Out & Read

The entire ballroom, lobby and entryway to The Clubhouse at Rancho Solano were filled with authors, books and literacy supporters on Nov. 6 as the community showed its support of Reach Out & Read.

Noted authors come to Fairfield to revel the audience with their tales of how their books came to be written and published. Six novelists and writers were featured this year: Catherine Coulter, Jo-Ann Mapson, Michael Hager, Paul McHugh and Carmen Bernier-Grand .

Authors spent hours with luncheon guests, signing books and discussing their craft.

"The crowd was friendly and enthusiastic," observed author McHugh. "And, of course, it was a pleasure to assist libraries in their crucial mission."

Proceeds go to support a children's literacy program that puts books in the hands of those ages 1-5 who visit local medical clinics for wellness checkups. Pediatricians, working with the Foundation, get children acquainted with books at the earliest possible age.

"It's a perfect partnership," said Steve Huddleston, president of the Foundation. "Physicians and volunteers help parents understand the importance of reading to their children right from the start, beginning early to make them good readers and book lovers."

Nearly $75,000 was raised through sponsorships, ticket sales, auction proceeds and book sales, Foundation officials reported.