This post was created on 03/05/2021.
Who: Marchman Technical College What: Socially distanced book signing with student author and illustrator, Chris Angilella
When: 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., Wednesday, March 10
Where: Marchman Technical College, 7825 Campus Drive, New Port Richey
Why: Marchman student, Chris Angilella, is a first-time author who has Asperger’s Syndrome. Chris’s interest in drawing and creating stories began as a child as a way to live in a world that was safe for him. He wrote his book to inspire people who have a disability, hoping to send a message that they are exceptional and can accomplish anything. He believes that it is important to be who you are and not allow others to treat you differently from anyone else. Chris has worked hard to fit into a world that often doesn’t understand who he is—which parallels some of the themes found in his book.
Chris’s first book, Dotty’s Freckles, is a story about a child named Dotty who always thought she was pretty, but after a bad experience at school, began to struggle with the way she looked. But Dotty’s struggle with self-esteem takes a positive turn when she meets an unlikely friend that looks just like her.
Chris continues to create stories with original characters who understand what it means to be exceptional.
How: In order to celebrate Chris’s accomplishment safely, the book signing will take place outdoors on the Marchman campus under the building 7 breezeway. Social distancing guidelines will be followed, and masks will be required while on school grounds. Chris will be signing books for attendees who bring their own copies, plus a limited number of paperbacks will be available for purchase at the event.
Dotty’s Freckles was independently published in August 2020 and can be purchased on Kindle or paperback from Amazon.com.
Media interested in an interview with Chris at another time can call to schedule.