Jean Dapra, author of “A Magical Journey to Nana-Tucket,” will be at Lux Bond & Green in West Hartford Center on Friday, Nov. 28.

Submitted release

Meet Jean Dapra, author of the new children’s book, “A Magical Journey to Nana-Tucket” at Lux Bond & Green, 46 LaSalle Rd. in West Hartford Center, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 28.

Dapra will be available to discuss her book and to sign personal notes in customers’ copies, making each book a memorable gift. Books are available for purchase at Lux Bond & Green, 46 LaSalle Rd. for $18.95. Proceeds from the book sales benefit Heroes in Transition, Inc., a not-for-profit organization that provides assistance to veterans, especially those who served in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Jean Dapra has penned an extraordinary new children’s book of wonder, whimsy and heart. On Nana-Tucket a unique island inhabited largely by grandmothers, Nanas, Omas, Grannies, Abuelas and Grootmoeders await a yearly visit from their grandbabies, welcoming the children with open arms, smiles and oh, yes, holiday treats.

In this seasonal tale, Obadiah, a mystical whale who ferries children to the island transports Matthew, Natalie and Perrin for a long-awaited visit to their Nana on Nantucket. On the island, the children get in the holiday spirit; meet a marching band led by a mermaid; learn about holiday traditions in other cultures; and receive a gift they will never forget.

Inspired by Nantucket and the beautiful island’s Christmastime gaiety, readers delight in Deb Binnig’s charming watercolor illustrations and in the real-life details mingled with the mystical. Dapra makes mention of an oversized Nantucket basket that serves as seating on chariot Obadiah, the dory near Main Street decked out in holiday lights and even the famous. Nantucket Reds of Murray’s Toggery Shop.

More than anything, though, Dapra has given families a new classic children’s book that they can read together during the holidays’ one that captures the depth of a grandmother’s love.

Jean Dapra lives in Farmington, Connecticut, with her husband, Richard. They have three children and three grandchildren. Her love of books, writing, children and celebrating holidays, as well as her infatuation with Nantucket Island, were the motivation to create Nana-Tucket. Jean has written for magazine publications and is a nurse, entrepreneur, writer, volunteer, wife, mother and “Nana.” Jean has served as board chair of a historic community center and a local museum and is currently active in two book clubs. She has a strong sense of patriotism and admiration for the United States Marine Corps, where her husband proudly served.

Deb Binnig is a lifelong artist who has worked in commercial venues, including advertising and package design. She is also known for her detailed paintings and prints done in a contemporary folk-art style. Deb lives in West Dennis and Wakefield, Massachusetts.

Three Bean Press is a women-owned, Boston-based company that publishes high-quality, visual books, with a focus on art books, cookbooks and children’s books.

For more information contact the Lux Bond & Green West Hartford store at 860-521-8693 or  [email protected].