Roy the Koi: From Pond to PageA Festive Book Launch & Community Celebration
Come for the Magic. Stay for the Meaning.Celebrate the heartwarming debut of Roy the Koi: The Fish Who Lived Forever, a beautifully illustrated children’s book inspired by a real-life fish from Manchester's Porter Howard Reservoir who touched a community—and now touches hearts through story.
Join authors Joseph McCarty and Holly DiBella-McCarthy for a joyful evening of storytelling, art, and inspiration as they share how Roy’s memory transformed into a meaningful children’s book about love, loss, and legacy.
This is more than a book launch—it’s a celebration of community, creativity, and connection.
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Evening Highlights Include:
From Pond to Page: A live reading of Roy the Koi and the real story behind the book.
From Memory to Manuscript: A behind-the-scenes look at how a mother and son co-authored their first children’s book.
Meet the Authors: Book signing and heartfelt conversations with Joseph & Holly.
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Spotlight on Local Children’s Authors:Celebrate storytelling with fellow local authors including:
Wilona Amoakoh – Nail’s Inner Crown
Heather Mezzacappa – Fiona’s Friends to the Rescue & Curious Creatures and Fairy Tales
Kimberly Heil – Gifts of the Spirits Volumes 1 & 2 and Visual Alchem
Tammy Gerhard – Cocoa Hugs and Coffee Mugs
Pedro Valentin – Favorite Things
Each author will have books available for sale and signing, and many will return the following day during the annual Silk City Art, Music & Beer Fest which takes place right behind WORK_SPACE starting at 1PM!
Plus:
- Snacks and book-themed giveaways
- Art activities and storytime fun
- An atmosphere full of heart, healing, and imagination
Whether you're a parent, teacher, librarian, aspiring author—or simply someone who believes in the power of a good story—this is a night to remember.
The Manchester Women's Group will be onsite collecting gently used children's books for the 9 Little Libraries they curate throughout Manchester.
