THUNDER BAY — Two children's books by a first-time Nipigon author will find their place among the shelves of the Thunder Bay Public Library.
Zachry Hendricken, who has autism, said seeing the books he'd written and illustrated published fulfills a longtime dream, and helps demonstrate what those with autism are capable of contributing.
Hendricken read selections from his two children's books at a launch event at Brodie Library earlier this week.
The first book, The Little Bird Learns to Fly, was published in February 2022, and his second, The Little Bird Learns About Fruits and Vegetables, came out in May of 2023.
Both books follow a bird named Jason, who learns about new foods and new experiences while exploring his independence, something the author is also fond of.
"Out of the blue" is how Hendricken explains how he got into writing. He says others inspire him to continue to work hard and do well, and he wants to help others with autism too.
"If anything is a problem or if they just need help like I do, we all work together because we're a team," he said.
After living in Red Rock, Hendricken has a goal of visiting California one day, buying a house in Red Rock and seeking out new experiences.
He also wants to keep writing, saying he has other books currently in the works.
Hendricken's books will be on display and available to borrow at the Thunder Bay Public Library.
