Hampton Bays Reading Specialist Liliana Cacace knows that being engaged is one of the surefire ways to get children to become lifelong book lovers. Forging that connection between creator and reader, the elementary school hosted its annual Author-Illustrator Night as part of Parents as Reading Partners Month, bringing a host of children’s book authors and illustrators to the school on March 13.   

The night was a success, with nearly 20 authors and illustrators in attendance this year. Students and their parents took advantage of the one-on-one time with a variety of local talent, and the children were able to ask the adults questions about their books and learn more about their favorite characters.

“It’s great to see so many kids here with their books,” Ms. Cacace said. “I’m glad to see them all.”

Remsenburg-based author Wendy Wax, a prolific writer of popular children’s tales published by Scholastic, was one of the many children’s book authors and illustrators in attendance. She brought an assortment of her books, including,” “City Witch, Country Switch” and “Even Firefighters Go to the Potty.” Other authors and illustrators who participated included “Pedro the Pirate” author Tim Hoppey, “Fish Wishes” and “Wishing Stars” author and illustrator Dorothy P. McPartland and “Pearl” author Joseph E. Scalia. Twin sister authors Sheila and Letty Sustrin traveled a few hours from for the event. The women, who collaborate on the “Teacher Who Would Not Retire” series, also gave presentations for children in grades K-3 during the school day.