Want to learn how to write a children's book?

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	Geneva children's author Laura Crawford signs her book, "The Pilgrims' Thanksgiving from A to Z," at the Barnes and Nobles Books at Spring Hill Mall in West Dundee. For those interested in writing a children's book of their own, Crawford will lead a seminar called introduction to writing on Saturday, Jan. 12 at the bookstore.   Mark Black | Staff Photographer, 2005
	Matthew Erickson, a Huntley boy who was born with brain cancer, recently celebrated his first birthday with a superhero themed birthday party that attracted nearly 200 people on Dec. 9. Here he is with his father, Ben.   Courtesy of Cancer Kiss my Cooley

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Has it ever been your dream to pen a children's book?

If so, the Barnes and Noble at Spring Hill Mall is holding a seminar called Introduction to Writing that will give you an overview of the process through publication and include an extended question and answer session.

The event is scheduled from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 12 at the store, located within Spring Hill Mall.

Local author and educator Laura Crawford will lead the discussion — she's written nine books, is a literacy specialist at Sleepy Hollow Elementary School and a leader of the local chapter of the Illinois Society of Children's Books Writers and Illustrators.

The event is free and reservations are recommended. For more information, call (847) 426-5614. To make a reservation, send an email to crm2185@bn.com.

A very happy birthday: A Huntley-based nonprofit that supports children with brain cancer made sure that Huntley resident Matthew Erickson, who was born with the disease, had an awesome birthday.

The group has been keeping tabs on little Matthew, who is only a year old, ever since he was diagnosed with the ailment — Matthew has his own Facebook page.

Cinnamon Kettner, the group's vice president, reached out to the family when they were planning little Matthew's first birthday — his actual birthday is Dec. 11 and the party was held two days earlier.

The family and CKMC ended up throwing a superhero bash for Matthew, because he's their superhero. Nearly 200 people showed up to enjoy an Italian buffet, magicians, a clown, balloon sculptures and candy canes.

In keeping with the theme, Captain America, Batman and Spiderman also hung out with little Matthew.

Cancer Kiss my Cooley, founded by Joe and Cinnamon Kettner of Huntley, has been around since 2011 and it raises community awareness about pediatric brain tumors.

It also raises money to help children living with the disease as well as their families.

The Kettners started the organization after losing their 6-year-old son, Carter, to inoperable malignant brainstem glioma.

For more information, send an email to info@kissmycooley.org or visit [URL]www.cancerkissmycooley.org;http://www.cancerkissmycooley.org[URL]

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