The Rock Island Public Library hosts local children's book author Allen McCaulley on Tuesday, July 16 as part of the library's Read, Renew, Repeat summer reading programming.

The 11 am event is at the library's Watts-Midtown Branch, 2715 30^th Street, Rock Island. McCaulley is the author of a series of hand-drawn picture books about "the wonderful Whimsical Max," a poodle-like character inspired by the author's real-life dog. McCaulley will share what inspired him to become a writer, and details about his series of stories starring Max.

He graduated from the University of Illinois with a degree in economics and later received an MBA from the University of Iowa. In addition to writing and other careers, McCaulley is a former Mayor of Moline, where he still lives with his wife, Linnea. His author bio states, "My wife and I had 17 years of sharing our lives with this incredibly smart and mischievous dog, and when he passed away, writing about him and sharing his spirit became my passion. I want to make young children laugh and smile and I want them to be good readers so they can join Max on his adventures."

Works in the Whimsical Max series include the first book, Max Makes Pancakes, followed by Max's Merry Christmas and Max Sings Take Me Out to the Ball Game. Wooden puzzles are also available via the author's website.

The event is free and open to all ages. For more information, visit the library website, call 309-732-READ, or follow the Rock Island Library on social media.

The Library's Read, Renew, Repeat Summer Reading Challenge continues through July 31. The library is encouraging adults, children, and teens to read at least 1,000 minutes, which works out to about 16 minutes a day. The library has set a community goal of 500,000 minutes for the all-ages challenge, and participants may sign up anytime.

Rock Island Public Library, Read, Renew, Repeat: June 1 to July 31, 2024. All Ages summer reading challenge and special events focused on personal renewal, sustainability, and family fun. Participants earn rewards for reaching reading and activity goals.