Every Maritimer should recognize the name Starr Dobson. If you don’t you must be living in complete isolation. For those of you not from the Maritime area, Starr is the co-host of Live at Five, a suppertime news show which highlights people and stories from the Maritime region.

In case any of you are wondering about the title of this post, I wasn’t actually struck by Starr Dobson when we met last Sunday, of course not, silly! In fact, she couldn’t have been any more gracious when I caught up with her at Dempsey Corner Orchard Farm  near Aylesford, Nova Scotia.

We were greeted at the door by two rather rambunctious goats. Quite fitting since  Starr was there to sign copies of her picture book, newly published by Nimbus Publishing, titled My Goat Gertrude.

About an hour into the book signing, Starr read her book to a group of children who sat listening to her every word. She captivated them all, and no wonder. Nothing like having a local celebrity in your midst with a great book. I’ve never seen so many children quite that quiet.  The moment I heard about Starr’s book, and that she was going to be handy my neck of the woods, I knew I had to get a copy for Miss Charlotte. It was no surprise to learn that Starr is just as friendly in person as what we see on Live at Five every evening. In fact, she is so down to earth you almost feel as though she’s a member of the family.

The lovely illustrations for the book were created by Dayle Dodwell who lives in Bedford, Nova Scotia. You can visit her at dayledodwellsillustration.blogspot.com. This is the very first children’s book that Dayle has illustrated. I’d say she did a number one job! There are more illustrations on her site. I encourage you to pop over and have a peek.

Have I mentioned the scrapbook I’m going to put together for Miss Charlotte with pictures of her Nanny Bee with children’s writers from the area? (I’m hoping she’ll think it’s pretty cool when she’s old enough to read these authors’ books for herself.) Well I mentioned it to Starr who immediately told me I didn’t look old enough to be a grandmother.  I’m thinking now I should have bought a few more books for that remark!! I mentioned to my daughter how tall Starr is to which she quickly came back with, “No, you’re just short.” So here’s a photo of Starr scrunching down to make me look taller. I actually think it was just so my husband could fit us both into the same shot. By the look on my face, I’d say I’m the one who looks a little star struck!