Local singer-songwriter Dave Preston has just released his first children’s picture book, The Monster in My Basement. After retiring as a letter carrier from the Brockport Post Office in 2007, “Mr. Dave” became a rock star in area preschools, delighting children with his songs for more than a decade. The Monster in My Basement is based on his original song, “Howard.”
Illustrator Heather Lynn Harris from Orchard Park joined Dave to create this engaging and colorful picture book, for children ages two through nine, after a chance meeting at the Rochester Museum Craft Sale. Shortly after that, City of Light Publishing Company selected the book for a fall 2020 world release.
Whether reading the book while trying to figure out whether this monster is friend or foe, or singing along to the soundtrack (available via QR code on a smartphone) and dancing/shaking along with the chorus each time the little boy is afraid, children adore this story of an unlikely friendship. Unfortunately, COVID restrictions have forced the cancellation of book release parties and promotions, but autographed copies are available through the author at howardthemonster.com. The Monster in My Basement is also available at other literary outlets.
Dave lives in Brockport with his wife, Debbie. They have three children, four grandchildren, and just the one monster (who visits the basement on Mondays and Thursdays).
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