Luna's Light

Hello and welcome to a special-announcement Saturday here at the Wannaskan Almanac by way of Prague. (Yes, that gorgeous European city.) Today is April 25th.

I'm delighted to announce that my friend Kathy Magnusson has recently published her first children's book, Luna's Light. I'm so proud of Kathy, not just because she's my friend, but because this book is a result of her diligence in utilizing the Red Shoes. She has used the information, contacts, inspiration, feedback, and the simple amenity of space and time of several of my writing retreats to craft this book. It was a thrill to be her book coach/cheerleader during this time. What follows is Kathy's big book launch announcement. Save the date!

In 2018, I wrote a story about a little light bulb for the public speaking club I belong to, Star of the North Toastmasters. The goal was to write an original story and tell it in 5-7 minutes. 

My story was about Brenda the Light Bulb and how she thought she wasn’t good enough to shine her light. It was a story that brought out the insecurities many of us (me included) feel about not being “good enough” to find our place to shine. 

Spoiler Alert: By the end of the story, she did find her place to shine and saved the day!

After hearing my story at the Toastmasters meeting, Wannaskan writer Kim Hruba encouraged me to turn it into a children’s picture book. I began my journey toward becoming a children’s picture book author by attending a writer’s conference in Foston and two small-group writer’s retreats in Warroad, all hosted by Kim. 

Fast-forward to 2026: Brenda the Bulb is now Luna. The name changed, and so did the motivation for Luna. 

Luna is a light bulb who chooses to leave her box to find her place to shine. She has some doubts about what she will find on her journey and, along the way, reconnects with old friends from the box. Ultimately, she does find a place to shine. 

Luna’s Light is about bravery, friendship, perseverance, and strength-qualities that can inspire your child to feel hopeful and confident in their own journey.

When I shared Luna’s Light with my mom, there was a surprise for her at the very back of the book, a dedication to her. She helped me immensely to find my place to shine!

A children’s picture book would be very boring without pictures. I am lucky to have a watercolor artist in the family. My cousin, Tamber Weller of Silver Bay, MN, stepped up to say “YES” to illustrating Luna. Luna’s Light is Tamber’s first illustrated children’s book. 

Join us for the virtual launch of Luna’s Light on April 29 at 6:30 p.m. Central Time! I'll be reading Luna’s Light, and Tamber will share her journey working with me to bring Luna to life. Bring the kids along for a delightful bedtime story and a fun coloring activity. Don't forget to wear your favorite pajamas to the party! We'll also be sharing a special link where you can get Luna’s Light at a discount. Hope to see you there! 

If you're in the Wannaskan area, I’d love for you to join me for the in-person launch at Roseau Public Library on May 14 at 6:00 pm. Enjoy a free coloring book and a fun craft, perfect for everyone who stops by! Feel free to wear your favorite PJs and cozy up while Kathy reads Luna’s Light. Books will also be available for purchase. We can’t wait to see you there!

You can find links to the events over at https://lunaslightbook.com/events