Did you know that Susan B Anthony and Frederick Douglass were friends? I did not. Nor did my children. Future generations will have Dean Robbins to thank for filling this void in our collective knowledge of history and civil rights.

“In remarkably economic prose, Robbins reveals the similarities in their childhoods and demonstrates the enormous impact these friends had on history.… Bold colors lend an upbeat feel to the illustrations, while layers of paint and mixed media create subtle texture and depth.” — Booklist

Dean is a friend, work colleague, neighbor, and fellow dog owner. I’ve long been impressed by his writing skill, creativity, and general awesomeness. Still,  it’s fun to see him take that talent to a new level, now playing the role of celebrity author. It’s also a kick for me to play the role of literary paparazzi.

Mystery to Me (owned by former UW colleague, Joanne) was the setting for Dean’s book signing event this morning. The cozy space was filled with friendly faces, all of whom were impressed (but not surprised) by Dean’s humble, eloquent, personable style.

The store’s name notwithstanding, the only mystery here is which publisher will have the good sense to publish Dean’s next manuscript.

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