THE EVERETT ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2020 Page 23 COCCA-LEFFLER | FROM PAGE 6 ing their trip with ice cream at Baileys. Maryann warmly admits that “Bus Route to Boston” will always be near and dear to her heart and is one of her most treasured books. Other recent favorites are the Janine books, “Janine” and “Janine and the Field Day Finish” (Albert Whitman & Company, 2015-16), which were inspired by her daughter, Janine. Together they have developed a corresponding website, www.janineparty. com, with a mission to help change public perception of children with disabilities. Expanding her creative resume to include playwright, Maryann wrote a children’s play based on her Princess K.I.M. books, “Princess K.I.M. and the Lie that Grew” and “Princess Kim and Too Much Truth” (Albert Whitman & Company). With the help of a creative team of artists and musicians, she brought “Princess K.I.M. the Musical” to the stage. After winning a National New Play Festival, the production is I HAVE THE BUYER FOR YOUR HOUSE! SALVATRICE REALTY Sylvia Anthony, Broker (617) 943 - 4794 “Over 40 Years Experience” now available for license nationwide; www.princesskimthemusical.blogspot.com. The musical captures the spirit of Maryann’s book with colorful characters and wonderful music. Maryann continues to create books and often visits elementary schools with a presentation that encourages, creatively, reading and writing. Even a visit to her website, www.maryanncoccaleffl er.com, is a treat as her illustrations inspire you to learn more about each and every book. Everett can certainly be proud that one of its daughters is bringing joy to so many children. Maryann has never lost her childlike imagination and we hope she never does. (Michael Matarazzo is the author of the book “They Came from Everett,” which is available at bookblues.com.) Velleca & Daughter, Inc. Is Your Home & Garden Ready For Spring? Residential & Commerical Construction * Landscape Construction * Walls * Patios * Foundations * Pressure Release Systems * Mold Remediation * Stucco Application * Downspout Drainage * Vapor Barriers * Concrete Floor Painting * Foundation Crack Repair * Pump & Battery Backup (617) 594-3547
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