This past Saturday marked a magical milestone with the launch of The Music Thief at Once Upon a Bookstore in Kelowna. This wasn’t just a book launch; it was a celebration of self-expression, creativity, and the beautiful diversity within us all. I’m thrilled to share a video recap of the event with you—check it out below! 🎥✨

A Story Comes to Life

The Music Thief, a labor of love created in collaboration with the incredible British artist Pearl Bates, was inspired by my family’s journey with music and the unique challenges and triumphs of living with neurodiversity. The book’s themes of courage, hope, and forgiveness resonated deeply with the families who joined us.

The event featured three sessions, each filled with excited young readers, their families, and an incredible energy that only a community gathering can bring. From a red carpet entrance to activity stations that sparked creativity, the day was filled with joy and exploration.

Activities for Every Little Star

Each session included:

• Story Reading and Musical Interlude: I had the pleasure of reading The Music Thief aloud, accompanied by a live violin performance. The children’s wide eyes and curious questions made each session unforgettable.
• Craft Table: Kids got hands-on and crafted their own mini-musical instruments. Seeing their creations come to life was heartwarming!
• Calming Corner: Our cozy nook provided a quiet space for children needing a sensory break.
• Music Exploration Station: Led by our wonderful volunteer musicians, children discovered various instruments up close.

We couldn’t have done this without the fantastic volunteers, including Olivia Walsh, Joan from SAE, and the Autism Okanagan team. Their dedication ensured everything ran smoothly.

Raising Awareness and Giving Back

The event was more than just a celebration of a book; it was a platform to raise awareness about autism and the power of self-expression. A portion of ticket sales and book proceeds are being donated to Autism Okanagan, supporting their incredible work in the community.

Thank You for Making It Special

I want to extend my deepest gratitude to Once Upon a Bookstore, my incredible husband Dionysius, my three little stars—Alexander, Victoria, and Olivia—and all the families who joined us. Your support and enthusiasm made this event a day to remember.

And to everyone who couldn’t make it, I hope this video gives you a glimpse of the magic we shared:

Thank you for being part of this journey with The Music Thief. Stay tuned for more updates, events, and opportunities to connect through the universal language of music. 🎶

With love,
Sophie XO