"Mason Witt, a skateboarding American Teenager, catapults himself into the greatest adventure of his life after reading the plight of a new Cyber Writer from Africa.  Lutalo knew he would come, so he sent Mason an urgent plea for help.  His village has lost its precious Zebra of Life- and his father has gone missing in the pursuit of the evil man who stole it.  Here begins this thrilling adventure of two boys, a smart-talking panther, and an amazing zebra that sustains life."  

So too, begins the best part of a long and tedious adventure, begun over a decade ago by Yuba City author, Karen Kostlivy.  After years of rejections, re-writes, and frustration, Karen's persistence has finally paid off.  Cyber Writers and The Zebra of Life is published, printed, and ready to be released on the world, causing quite a hubbub in the Yuba Sutter area.

This Saturday, May 8th, from 2:00pm- 3:00pm, at 302 2nd Street in Marysville, the Yuba County Library & The Friends of the Yuba County Library will be hosting the book release of "Cyber Writers," marking Kostlivy's official debut into the world of Children's literature. The Friends of the Library will be selling the book, and for each book sold the "Friends" will receive a $1 donation. Karen will also be reading a chapter from "Cyber Writers." Attendees will receive free posters and bookmarks.  Rumor has it that one hour will not be nearly long enough to handle the number of Yuba Sutter residents looking to meet the author and have her sign their books.

Wondering what all the fuss was about, I visited the Cyber Writers website, at: http://www.cyberwriters.net/Cyber_Writers/Welcome.html, and took the opportunity to read the first chapter of the book.  I must say I was pleasantly surprised.  From the first page of her book, Kostlivy's playful style and vivid descriptions hook the reader, and send them on a bumpy afternoon bus ride through the Yuba City streets.  Having been on a bus ride or two over those same streets,  I was particularly affected with a sense of nostalgia.  Kostlivy's depiction of the neighborhoods of north Yuba City, as well as her devotion to detail, make it easy for the reader to see, hear, and feel the environment of the schoolbus.  If that weren't enough to invite me to read more, there is a link on the site that allows the reader to listen to the words of the first chapter, as interpreted by local actor, Keith Matthews, and edited by  Eric Jordan, of MarComm studios.  The experience is worth the visit to the site, and even if you're not a fan of Children's lit., (which I am), you'll appreciate Kostlivy's talent. If this first book is any indication of what is to come, the name,"Karen Kostlivy," may soon be as well known as "J.K. Rowling."  One can only hope...