One for Izzy
It’s been more than two years since Pine Island resident Carol Wilson wrote her first book, “One for the Birds.” At that time the book was available only as an eBook from Amazon.com. Last year Wilson had the book printed and is offering 100 percent of the sales proceeds to a young Pine Island boy with cerebral palsy.
“Isidro ‘Izzy’ Reyes is an 18-year-old Pine Island boy who needs a great deal of help and extensive care 24 hours a day,” Wilson said. “I had the book made into printed form so I could offer the proceeds to Izzy’s family. I am having two book signings early next month: one at The Cove and the other at the Lutheran Church. We will also have ‘Birds of Pine Island’ posters and note cards for sale. The proceeds from these will also benefit Izzy.”
The term cerebral palsy refers to a group of disorders that affect movement control. There is not one specific cause of cerebral palsy. It can be caused by an injury to the brain before, during or after birth. It can occur after birth due to an infection such as bacterial meningitis or viral encephalitis.
The book “One for the Birds” is a fantasy novel about a great blue heron named Yolk, who magically understands English. It’s written in an autobiographical style from the viewpoint of Yolk, who relates his life story through many humorous adventures to his human friend (the reader).
“All of the characters have characteristics of people I have met in my life and many of them are Pine Islanders,” Wilson said. “But the inspiration came from a blue heron that was in our back yard here on Pine Island. My husband is a bird photographer and has won prizes for his photography. It is those two things, and just spending time imagining … and somehow I wrote this book.”
The reviews on Amazon.com are all overwhelmingly positive with four and five stars.
Different reviewers suggested “this book is good for all ages,” “a book that will put a smile on your face, and keep it there” and “a delightful toast to Florida’s bird life. The book includes over 40 high quality photos that help the reader, young and old, relate to the characters.”
“I also wanted to make the book as inexpensive as possible,” Wilson said. “It will be available for just $8 at the book signings. I’d like to invite everyone to come out and help Izzy.”
The book signing at The Cove, 7290 Ladyfish Drive, will be Saturday, Feb. 6, at 9 a.m. The Fishers of Men Lutheran Church book signing will be the following Saturday, Feb. 13, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The church is at 10360 Stringfellow Road.