Topeka author to sign copies of children’s book

Topeka author Jack Heller will sign copies of his recently published children’s book, “aeiou and sometimes y,” from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday at The Children’s Book Shop, 937 Mass.

The colorfully illustrated, rhyming verse book attempts to teach children about the subtleties of the English language by toying with the multiple meanings of words and the multiple sounds that letters can make.

“Reading English is not an easy task. It can be very challenging. I’m trying to let kids know that so they won’t feel inferior,” Heller said.

Heller, a former junior high school teacher who did graduate work at Kansas University, now is involved with landscaping. He self-published the book in April.

Heller is only selling his book at independent book stores. It can be purchased at The Children’s Book Shop in Lawrence.

Holidays: Tell us all about your New Year’s resolutions

The new year is almost here. Time to start fresh, set goals and stick to your best-laid plans. Right?

The fact is, most people declare New Year’s resolutions with the best intentions, follow through for the first few weeks – maybe even the first few months – of the new year, but eventually abandon their ambition.

Of course, there are probably plenty of folks who have changed their lives with resolutions.

No matter which camp you fall into, we want to hear your stories. What are some past resolutions that you’ve managed to keep? Which ones always flop? What will your resolution be this year? Do you have a plan for how to stick to it? Or do you think resolutions are just a waste of time?

E-mail your responses to Mindie Paget at mpaget@ljworld.com with “New Year’s resolutions” as the subject line, or mail them to 645 N.H., Lawrence 66044, attn: New Year’s resolutions. You can also reach Paget at 832-7187. Please include your name and phone number with your correspondence.