Left Bank Books, in downtown Belfast, invites the public to meet Sy Montgomery, New York Times bestselling author and National Book Award Finalist, on Monday, Sept. 29, for a talk and book signing beginning at 6:30 p.m.

The event celebrates Montgomery’s just-released new book, The True and Lucky Life of a Turtle, which spotlights the real-life story of a snapping turtle named Fire Chief. Montgomery will be joined by artist Matt Patterson, who has created the illustrations for several of Montgomery’s books, including The True and Lucky Life.

Fire Chief was hatched on an autumn day and, after decades of traveling across a street between his summer and winter ponds, met with disaster when hit by a car. Luckily, Fire Chief was rescued by volunteers who crafted a plan for rehabilitation that included a special wheelchair and a safe, aquatic home. The friends and challenges Fire Chief met along the way are all chronicled by the Sibert Honor-winning duo behind The Book of Turtles. Detailed back matter includes an author's note, information about snapping turtles, and reader resources for how to save injured turtles.

"Although geared for children ages 4 to 8, Lucky Life appeals to anyone who is fascinated by the work Montgomery and Patterson do to rescue turtles," said Left Bank Books.

Montgomery is the author of more than thirty books including The Soul of an Octopus, The Hawk's Way, The Hummingbirds' Gift, and the beloved international bestseller Good Good Pig, her memoir of life with her pig, Christopher Hogwood.

Montgomery has been honored with a Sibert Medal, three Sibert Honors, two Science Book and Film Prizes from the National Association for the Advancement of Science, four honorary degrees, and many other awards.

Admission to the event, which will take place at the bookshop, is by donation. Follow this link to reserve your seat(s) or visit us at leftbankbookshop.com.

Questions? Call Left Bank Books at 207-338-9009, or email: info@leftbankbookshop.com. Ample free parking is available in front of the shop and in an adjacent city lot.