HAMLET — The Nerdy Collective was the site of a book-signing event Friday evening for Darrell Coon’s first publication.
Coon, from across the state line in McColl, South Carolina, recently published “Mr. Raccoon the Sub!” a children’s book based on his first day — and subsequent adventures — as a substitute teacher.
“The kids were scared they were getting another mean substitute, so I wanted to reassure them they were in good hands,” Coon said.
The book, geared toward kids aged 4-9 years, was written over a span of two months.
“It has been in my head forever, but I feel like it is a good message for younger students who are nervous and scared,” Coon said.
The educator added that substituting was “one of the best jobs I ever had and the reason I went back to school at 40 to get my teaching degree.”
Several children and former students came to the comic book shop to listen to Coon read his book — which was illustrated by Adia Horvath — prior to the signing.
“Mr. Raccoon the Sub” can be purchased at The Nerdy Collective and through Amazon.
See more photos below.