Sardines make a break for it

FALLBROOK - Have you ever wondered what would happen if a can of sardines decided it was time to get out of the can? Find out how much mischief a can of sardines can get into in the big city, on a bus, at the park, and in a chicken coop in “How much Trouble could a can of Sardines get in to?”

The talents of Fallbrook author Nancy Bloy Gebhardt and artist Brett Stokes have resulted in this story, destined to delight young readers.

Gebhardt and Stokes are both alums of Fallbrook Union High School. A self-proclaimed “Queen Sardine,” Gebhardt said she has wanted to see her “silly sardine stories” in print for many years. Having grown up in a large family, she attributes the idea for the story to “all those family vacations with everybody crammed into the station wagon touring America.”

While Stokes is known throughout the village for the many colorful murals he has created, he is an acclaimed Native American artist. His work has been shown over the years in galleries throughout the United States, and is favored by international collectors. Stokes has won numerous awards in the Trail of Tears Art Show, Tahlequah, Oklahoma, and is a member of the Cherokee Honor Society. He is also a graphic designer, illustrator and photographer.

The new book will be introduced at a reception on Saturday, July 16 from 5 to 8 p.m. at Café des Artistes, located at the corner of Main Avenue and Alvarado Street.

Gebhardt will present a reading of her new work, and both she and Stokes will be there to autograph copies of this first edition print for sale.

The public is welcome, but space is limited, so please RSVP by July 14 by emailing [email protected]. The book is available from Velvet Cat Publishing or by calling (760) 443-1682.