The first week of June held two of the biggest book conferences in the United States, and this year Puxico was put on the map thanks to local author Cari Barnfield Pointer.
Pointer is the author of two children's books both with the theme of "Hey Mom." She premiered her new and second book, "Hey Mom, Can I Be Big?" in the series at the Book Expo in Manhattan June 1-2, and then premiered it again at Storybook Genius Publishing's Book Conference June 3- 4.
"I have had a dream of writing since I was a kid so being in New York City with so many amazing authors, it really was the biggest high I could imagine," stated Pointer. "I felt like a 'real' author. I, Cari Barnfield Pointer, was signing my book in New York City! It was truly unbelievable."
Pointer is the 1994 Puxico Valedictorian. She graduated from Southeast Missouri State in 2000 with a psychology degree and started working at the central office for the Missouri State Children's Division. She is a resident of Marshall, Mo. and has been married to her husband, Jason Pointer for a total of 17 years. Together they have two children, Cade and Kelar.
She visited Puxico Public Library May 1 for an official reading of her newest book. Many local children and parents attended the event. Shirley Linson of the Berry Glenn Historical Museum purchased both copies of her books and they are also available for reading at the Puxico Public Library. Both of her books are for sale at Amazon and at Barnes and Nobles Book Stores, as well as at Ebooks.
"This experience only solidified that I am doing what I love and to continue to write," stated Pointer. "Never ever stop dreaming and shooting for the stars. Always go for your dreams, no matter your age and always remember that life is too short to do anything but."