Celebrating Stories Carol June Franks Invites Families to Her Latest Book Adventure

Celebrating Stories Carol June Franks

Invites Families to Her Latest Book Adventure

Rebecca Hemlock

The Ashland Beacon

Step into a world of wonder and imagination as Broadway Books transforms into a celebration of storytelling on Tuesday, September 23. Beloved children’s author Carol June Franks is inviting families to join her for the launch of her newest book—a joyful evening filled with laughter, creativity, and connection. The festivities begin with a meet and greet at 5:00 p.m., followed by a lively session of children’s activities at 6:00 p.m. Bring your little readers and come celebrate the stories that continue to capture hearts across generations.

For Franks, this event is about more than unveiling a new title—it’s about building community and sharing the timeless joy of storytelling. “I hope you’ll stop by if you get a chance,” she said warmly. “I’d love to meet you in person.”

A retired teacher, Franks spent decades guiding children through the joys of reading and writing. Those years in the classroom planted the seeds for the enchanting tales she now shares with the world. She first began crafting stories alongside her students as part of the Louisville Writing Project Summer Institute. The dream of publishing lived quietly in her heart for years, but it wasn’t until retirement that she finally gave those stories wings.

Now, with four published titles and a devoted and growing readership, Franks is celebrated for blending memory, imagination, and lyrical rhythm into stories that delight young audiences. Her books, ideal for ages two through eight, are made to be read aloud—inviting families to enjoy the rhythm of language and vibrant illustrations together. Each book ends with a special section offering tips to spark conversation, build early literacy, and inspire budding young writers—a signature touch that reflects her passion for education.

Many of Franks’s stories are inspired by her own cherished childhood memories. Sled Ride Down Unrue Street draws on the thrilling sleigh rides of her youth in Westwood. The Silent Tree Remembers, inspired by her father’s love of the woods.  Potatoes, Papaw, and Me paints a nostalgic picture of her grandfather’s cozy farm kitchen in eastern Kentucky, where tiny potatoes sizzled in a cast-iron skillet on a wood stove.

While these tales evoke nostalgia for adults, their magic is timeless—offering young readers themes of family, nature, and quiet adventure. Rather than delivering overt moral lessons, Franks’s writing emphasizes simplicity, rhythm, and joy. “I want my books to be wholesome and enjoyable,” she explained. “There are so many stories that try to teach, but I want mine to spark conversations and provide rhythm that readers of all ages can enjoy.”

The Broadway Books event promises to be more than a book signing—it’s a celebration of imagination, memory, and the stories that connect us all. Readers can chat with the author at the 5:00 p.m. meet and greet, while the 6:00 p.m. activity session is sure to delight young guests and leave them inspired. Friends, families, and book lovers of all ages are encouraged to attend, and Franks hopes the event will be shared widely throughout the community, so no one misses out.

With her boundless love for storytelling, her inviting warmth, and her deep-rooted commitment to literacy, Carol June Franks reminds us of the magic a good book can bring—especially when shared aloud with the ones we love. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to her work, this is an evening that promises smiles, inspiration, and stories you’ll want to revisit again and again.

Don't miss the chance to meet the author, celebrate the joy of reading, and discover a book your family will treasure. Carol June Franks isn’t just launching a new story—she’s inviting you to be part of the next chapter.

Learn more about Franks and her books at www.junebugtales.com.