Local columnist to sign books Thursday at the library

 Local columnist Mike Parker will appear at the public library to read and to sign copies of his new book “Sprinkling Stardust: The Delights of Grandchildren.” The book is a collection of the columns he wrote about his experiences with his grandkids over 24 years.

“I wanted to pull everything together into one volume,” Parker said. “I figured that, at worst, I would be leaving a sweet legacy for my grandchildren. After all, they provided the material for the book.”

Parker began writing columns in May 1994. His first “grandchild column” appeared in December 1997. In the 24 years that have passed, he has written about 75 columns about his grands.

“People often stop me and tell me how much they enjoy my columns – especially the ones about my grandchildren,” he said.

The reading and book signing will take place in the auditorium of the Kinston-Lenoir County Public Library, headquarters of the Neuse Regional Library. The reading will begin at 6:30 p.m. After the reading, Parker will be available to sign copies of his book.

“I will also have discounted copies of my book for sale,” he said. The paperback book sells on Amazon for $12.99, but Parker said he would be making copies available for $10. “That way, you can save on the cost of the book – and avoid shipping charges.”

The book reading portion of the event will last about 15 minutes, he said.

“I do not intend to read the entire book – or even a good portion of it. I just want to read enough to whet people's appetites.”