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A Series of (Unfortunate) Events… and a Few Bright Spots

By Kim Childress

September 26, 2025

First things first—thank you.

Your encouragement over this past year fills my soul and keeps me going. Thank you to all, young and old, who have shared your favorite books, past and present. You remind me daily why I do what I do.

"Of course that happened." - My newest favorite mantra.

Turns out, this phrase fits more situations than I ever expected—including my latest: due to a series of unexpected events, Ink-a-Dink will not be able to attend this year’s Caledonia Harvest Festival. It’s taken me the first fifty years of life to fully understand (and even accept, with grace) that sometimes plans change. While I’m disappointed to miss the festival, I was exactly where I needed to be—helping care for my mom (who is now doing well, thank you!).

I encourage everyone: support local business and attend the 2025 Caledonia Harvest Festival!

🍁  Proudly Supporting the Caledonia Area Chamber of Commerce

My heartfelt thanks to the Caledonia Area Chamber of Commerce for all the ways you support local businesses, including my own. And to the local sponsors who make community events like the Harvest Festival possible—you are appreciated.

🍂✨The Bad Beginning, A Series of Unfortunate Events by Lemony Snicket

One upside to this plot twist in plans is sharing one of my all-time favorite series since its very start, an oldie-but-goodie: The Bad Beginning, first in A Series of Unfortunate Events by the ever-clever Lemony Snicket. Brilliant wit, wildly absurd family adventures, and deliciously dark humor. And perfect timing! A brand-new collector’s edition of The Bad Beginning arrives October 14, 2025. (Yes, I already preordered my copy.)

As far as Oct. 15, 2025 ... We are counting down the days! To Outwit Them All #BookRelease

Countdown to Release Day & September Giveaway

We’re counting down to October 14, 2025—the release of To Outwit Them All by Peggy Wirgau, award-winning author of The Stars in April! Have you entered to win a hardcover edition?

📖 To Outwit Them All is based on the true story of Betty Floyd, also known as Agent 355 in George Washington’s Culper Spy Ring. It’s a gripping, heart-stirring tale of espionage, bravery, and the Revolutionary War.

🎉 Preorder Special – 30% off through release day, October 14, 2025
🎁 Giveaway Alert – Enter to win a gorgeous hardcover edition ($37 value)!

👉 Spies, Secrets, and Storytelling: An Interview with Peggy Wirgau

📍 On TourCheck PeggyWirgau.com for more appearances and events!

Support Peggy Wirgau (and all your favorite authors) by following and liking on your favorite socials!

Facebook: Peggy Wirgau, Peggy Wirgau Historical Fiction, The Stars in April

Instagram: Peggy Wirgau

Explore more book recommendations and books for readers of all ages and genres, at the Ink-a-Dink Bookshop Storefront.

As always, happy reading!

~Kim Childress

Founder, Childress Ink ~ Ink-a-Dink

Author ~ Editor ~ Reviewer ~ Speaker

With over thirty years of experience in publishing, Kim Childress is an award-winning editor, author, speaker, and reviewer. She has built a distinguished career while also raising a personal focus group—her four children—whose experiences have enriched her insights into children's and young adult literature. More.