Sandra Louise Woodward Darling, a.k.a. Alexandra Day, penned and illustrated the beloved book Good Dog, Carl back in 1985. In that book, Carl the Rottweilers adventure starts with Mom saying, 'Look after the baby, Carl'. Carl takes, well, unique care of baby Madeleine. The book was a smash hit, and Day followed up with a whole slew of Carl-centric books including Carl Goes Shopping, Carls Birthday, Carls Afternoon in the Park and, just recently, Carls Sleepy Afternoon, published in October by Farrar, Straus and Giroux.

So, heres how all this relates to us: In her latest book, Seattle-based Day drew real Madison Park shops and merchants into the story. To celebrate the release of the darling, locally set Sleepy Afternoon and the 20th Anniversary of Good Dog, Carl, The Childrens Shop in Madison Park is having a book signing shin-dig on Saturday, December 17. Invest in a copy of the new book ($12.95) and have it inscribed by Day, who will be holding court from 11am to 12:30 pm. The icing on the cake is that Day is toting along the celebrity dog, Carl. Kids can get their picture taken with the mellow fellow, just dont expect him to babysit or anything.

Call ahead to reserve a copy of Carl's Sleepy Afternoon. The first five callers who mention Red Tricycle will receive a free RT kiddie tee. Gift bags for all.

The Childrens Shop
4216 Madison St.
between 42nd and 43rd Ave.
206.328.7121
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