As a journalist and a writer, I can attest to the fact that its not easy to write a book. 16 year old Jackie Prata, from Harrison has accomplished this feat at a young age, with her Children’s book, Fortune Cookie Surprise!
Jackie, a high school junior at Sacred-Heart Greenwich High School, tells us in her book that all children can make a difference and her book sends a heartfelt message of love, acceptance and importance for not only children but all of us.
Why the title Fortune Cookie Surprise? “I have always enjoyed sharing fortune cookies at the end of a meal with my family and friends, and one day I realized why—they are funny, but each has a hidden message or some wisdom inside, just like people!” says Prata.
Fortune Cookie Surprise! by Jacqueline Prata is the story of a young girl named Emily who is on her way to one of her favorite activities: eating Chinese food with her family. The addition of Chinese food at their favorite restaurant makes everyday life extra special, especially when there’s something to celebrate. Emily’s favorite part comes after the meal when the dessert of fortune cookies is served. Emily loves the light-hearted and sometimes profound messages to be found therein. As she and her family laugh together at the messages the cookies deliver, Emily realizes that she is like a fortune cookie—she’s the finishing touch to their family as the fortune cookies are to their special meal. She also sees how children everywhere are like fortune cookies, that no matter what their challenge, background, or family structure, each one is unique and have a special message of their own for the world.
The picture book (ages 4-8), warmly illustrated by Prata herself, originated from a school assignment and evolved into an exploration of the entire book publishing process. “At first I hoped to share just this message with other children. Each one is special and brings something special to their families, and to the world. But as I have gone through the process of writing and illustrating the book, working through the editing process, and then seeing the book become something I could hold in my hand, I also now hope to inspire young readers to believe that they can do unexpected things.”
Jacqueline enjoys reading, writing, and activities at school including yearbook and broadcast journalism. She also volunteers in her community with Special Olympics, Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation and Wreaths Across America. The incredible athletes with Special Olympics-Greenwich have taught her to value every person’s unique abilities. Alex’s Lemonade Stand has shown her that she has the power to make a difference by becoming involved and working to raise awareness and fund research. Wreaths Across America volunteers remember and honor our U.S. veterans through wreath-laying ceremonies every December, including entire coverage at Arlington National Cemetery.
Jackie looks forward to continuing her writing, and is hoping to one day make a difference and have a positive impact on our world. Jackie, I think you have already begun to make a difference with this book, which should be a message to all of us to appreciate each other, and the special impact that each of us can have on our family, friends and loved ones.
On Tuesday, October 9th our 16 year old daughter Jackie Prata will be reading a children’s picture book that she wrote, illustrated, and published at Harrison Public Library – Children’s Discovery Center at 4pm for Tween Tuesdays.
Harrison Mayor Ron Belmont purchased a copy of the book for his grandchildren and awarded Jackie with a Certificate of Achievement.
Jackie’s book will also be sold and discussed at — Resurrection Book Fair – September 30, 2018, 9:30am-1:30pm, 116 Milton Road, Rye.
