It’s Saturday the 25th of March 2023 and I am in the car park, before heading into the Tea Tree Gully Library. I have been looking forward to the “See The Kindness” book launch, but the nerves start to hit.
I walk into the library, and I am warmly greeted by Sophia from the Tea Tree Gully Library, who has done a wonderful job in putting the launch together. I was delighted to meet Emma, the Auslan interpreter who would help out today.
I am feeling humbled by all the support and so good to catch up with Sandy Russo from ‘Sandy Russo Consulting’ and Candice from the Special Education Resource Unit (SERU) – two amazing people I have had the pleasure to work with on some projects. My inspiring creative arts teacher (Beth Sztekel) is also back for my second book launch.
Then, like magic, my year 6 teacher Graham Maddren has arrived, and although it’s been a few years I am just ecstatic to see him. I dedicated “See The Kindness” to Mr Maddren. We are just about ready for the launch.
My local member Mr Blair Boyer MP arrives and gives me a wave. Blair has kindly agreed to do the official book launch.. It is also a pleasure to see Blair who already has a full schedule. Blair’s speech is inspiring, and I feel privileged to have Blair’s support.
Mr Maddren is up next, and Sophia has a few questions for him about his teaching journey and working with a young Hayley. Then we talk about the book dedication and a year 6 surfing camp, and how two students (one of them was me), had other plans rather than going in the water.
Now its my turn for the questions from Sophia and we talk about how “See The Kindness” came about, and the story and character design.
And just like that time is up, and I have the pleasure of signing some books and I can see people are enjoying the colouring in sheets on the table.
It is great to see so many people at the book launch and many friends, family and interested people have come along to support me. It is also great to get so many positive messages about the book. I have had wonderful time and I am feeling happy.
Thank you, Tea Tree Gully Library, for putting on an amazing event.
“See The Kindness” is available online and locally at the Modbury Heights Newsagency for $15-00. The newsagency is located at the Modbury Heights Shopping Centre, Ladywood Rd.
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