Monte Cristo Bookshop Kid's Series featuring local author/illustrator Anna Westbrook reading You Can't Read This Book

The Monte Cristo Bookshop in downtown New London will be kicking off its Kid’s Series event featuring visits from local authors on Saturday, February 2nd at 11:30am.

Anna Westbrook will be the first of many local writers to participate in this series with her captivating children’s book: “You Can’t Read This Book.” 

“You Can’t Read This Book” began in 2010 as a way to motivate a student in the Boys and Girls Club at Claude Chester Elementary School in Groton, CT. At the time, Ms. Westbrook was serving as the site director at Claude Chester, and a first grade boy refused to participate in his required reading because he said he could not read any of the books. After reflecting on the conversation, she decided to write him a book that he could not read, with the hopes of changing his mindset with a direct challenge.

Frost Hollow Publisher’s in Woodstock, CT chose to publish book “You Can’t Read This Book” in September of 2011.

Since then, Ms. Westbrook has been traveling the area visiting local schools and bookstores and challenging children to defeat the main character, “The Author,” by reading his alleged work. Students in Ledyard, Groton, and New London have all met the main character of You Can't Read This Book “The Author,” and have responded passionately. After a reading in Groton, one student pumped his fist in the air and explained, “Read it again, prove him wrong!”

The event is targeted for ages 0-6, but kids of all ages will enjoy the dry humor and witty remarks throughout the book.

Written by a local author/illustrator, New London resident, and former member of New London public schools, and for area children, February 2nd event is a great opportunity to inspire local children in their pursuit of literacy.

Signed copies of Ms. Westbrook's book will be available at the event.