200 First Street

Nancy Murray, author of "Gullah, The Nawleans Cat meets Katrina" and her recently published  and winner of the International Book Award "The Night the Elephant Cried-A Story of the Tsunami" will provide an interactive program for the children during the event. Nancy, a native Floridian, attended local schools including Florida Junior College and University of Florida.  She became a registered nurse and worked in a local hospital after raising a family of four.  An early retirement allowed her time to travel and pursue her love of literature and writing.  Currently Nancy lives in a log cabin with her lab, O'Sheen and 2 cats, Chelly and Granny. Nancy will be reading "Gallah, The Nawleans Cat Meets Katrina" her first published children's book, a story about a petite black French Quarter cat caught in hurricane Katrina.

Barbara Spurlin, author and co-author of 3 books for young people, is an independent writer and educator based in Jacksonville and has received degrees from University of Florida and Jacksonville University.  Barbara has recently retired after serving 50 years as a teacher and principal and has been recognized by the U.S. secretary of Education as a National Distinguished Principal.   Her first book, "Wish I Had A Pony" was published in 2007, followed by "Lizard On The Lamp Post" in 2009 and her newest book, "Jellyfish On The Menu", co-authored with Dr. Michael Bernhardt became available in February of this year.  Barbara will be reading "Wish I Had A Pony", a story based on one of her very own adventures.

Both authors will have all of their books available for purchase and will be more than happy to personally sign their books and talk with the children (and adults) during their visit in the Courtyard.   Nancy will be reading "Gullah" at 11am and Barbara will read "Pony" at noon.  

First Street Gallery
216-B First Street
Neptune Beach, FL 32266
904-241-6928
www.firststreetgalleryart.com