Jill Duchnowski, author of the children's book, "The Traveling Mermaids of Starved Rock", will be reading from her book at the Starved Rock Country Welcome Center, 248 Canal Street, Utica, as part of Utica's Fall Festival on Saturday, October 22, 2022.

Duchnowski's book tells the story of Cassidy as she discovers the mermaids in Ottawa Canyon while she is worrying about starting at a new school. The mermaids help change her outlook about meeting new people, maintaining her old friends, and doing her part to make newcomers feel welcome. The beautifully illustrated book is intended for 4-10 years olds.

This is the second book in Duchnowski's series, "Cassidy's Illinois Adventures Children's Books". The book series focuses on Cassidy as she learns life lessons through meeting mythical creatures at some of Illinois's most historic landmarks.

Duchnowski, a Bloomington, IL, resident, will be reading from her book at 1:00pm and again at 2:00pm in the Community Room at the New Village Hall in Utica. After each reading, the attending children will receive mermaid-themed coloring pages and the author will be available to answer questions and sign her books. "The Traveling Mermaids of Starved Rock" will be available for purchase at the Starved Rock Country Welcome Center.

Utica Fall Festival, Saturday, October 22nd, 12:30-3:00pm, is intended for the entire family and includes a fun day of fall activities including games, crafts, face-painting, s'more-making, bounce houses and more. The activities will take on the grounds of the New Village Hall, 248 Canal Street, Utica, IL