Author makes appearances at local schools.

Written by Jesse Kratz

Wednesday, 27 October 2010 08:00

A familiar redhead was seen at Sunflower and Cottonwood elementary schools last week and was spotted again by his fans at Molly´s Table on Saturday.

Author Rhonda Fischer was at Molly´s Table on Saturday during the Harvest Festival to sign books and chat with some of the youngest fans of the star of her book "Randy Kazandy, Where Are Your Glasses?" Molly Nagle holds up her autographed copy of the book. Fischer also visited Cottonwood and Sunflower elementary schools last week for a presentation on the book. (photo by WP News)

Randy Kazandy, the main character in "Randy Kazandy, Where Are Your Glasses?" by author and Paola resident Rhonda Fischer, made the rounds to encourage students about their self-image and self-esteem at school.

Fischer presented the book to students, who all sported their own sets of glasses for the event, just as Randy does in the book. She discussed the reasons why students should love themselves for who they are and not worry about being different.

The story follows a young Randy as he finds out he needs glasses and how he goes through quite a few pairs before finally accepting who he is, with the glasses. The tale rhymes, and children can play games while reading the book, such as going back and counting all the eyeglasses on the illustrated pages.

Fischer also visited Molly´s Table on Saturday during the Paola Harvest Festival for a book-signing and to test out a few potential kids´ menu items for the restaurant. Randy Kazandy Day at the Cafe offered children seven different items that they could vote on to be placed on the official Randy Kazandy menu, which will be coming soon to the cafe.

Molly Nagle came to the event and got her own copy of the book, which Fischer also signed.

Nagle, although a bit shy, said she already read the book and has even started writing one of her own.

Karen Kice of Paola was there with Michelle Kice and grandson Ashdon Kice, 7, to purchase copies of the book. Karen said she bought one for all three of her grandchildren.

Ashdon said he really likes hunting for the glasses on the pages, and his grandmother adored the book.

"I think it´s a very positive thing for any age," she said. "At this age, they´re getting into bullying, so anything that´s educational and can help with self-esteem and celebrate the things that make them different is amazing."

To order the book go to www.randykazandy.com or Jobson Optical website

Whim Publishing 913.294.2894

WP News Reporting