Monday, April 29, 2024
After experiencing a total solar eclipse in 2017, Jayme Sandberg set out to write a story that helps children and parents understand the once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Now, Sandberg finds herself chasing the next total eclipse on April 8 here in Gatesville. As part of the city’s Block (Out the Sun) Party, Sandberg looks forward to sharing her first children’s book, “Total Solar Eclipse: A Stellar Friendship Story” with the community through a story time event on April 6.
“I just felt called to helping parents experience the total solar eclipse the best way possible,” Sandberg said. “Both in preparing for it and capturing the special memory of whatever their experience happens to be.”
At first, Sandberg was skeptical about the eclipse expected to cross her small town in Nebraska nearly seven years ago. Once she witnessed totality alongside her young children, she knew she wanted to create a picture book to prepare others ahead of the next total eclipse in 2024.
“A total solar eclipse is for everyone, and I wanted to create an approachable book about it that could get people excited about it even if they don’t have that interest already in STEM or space, because it’s kind of like a gateway to that interest,” Sandberg said.
The story combines a tale of friendship with lessons about the phenomenon of a total solar eclipse. It not only teaches children how to watch a total eclipse safely, but also explores the unexpected ways friends shine when they work together.
Although the book focuses on the rare occurrence of a total solar eclipse, readers can learn from its themes on friendship and emotions at any time.
“Truly, for all of us, to be reminded that we can shine in different ways when we work together in communication and friendship and even believing the best in someone and their intentions rather than expecting the worst all the time,” she said. “I think that’s a lesson that is actually a good reminder for all ages.”
Sandberg said the book also features a special page at the end where families can write down their memories about their experience with the eclipse.
“I think it’s also important to capture the memory of this special moment in time no matter what it is, because thousands of people are coming to your community just like they came to my community in 2017,” Sandberg said.
Published in July 2023, “Total Solar Eclipse: A Stellar Friendship Story” is listed as a bestseller in children’s books on Amazon.
Visitors can purchase the book for $10 during the eclipse story time, which will take place at the 1854 Mercantile at 206 S 7th Street on April 6. Starting at 6:30 p.m., the event will feature crafts, snacks, and a book signing and reading by Sandberg.
In true story time fashion, children are encouraged to wear their pajamas. Admission is free.
“I’m so excited for the invitation, and I can’t wait to meet the people of Gatesville when I come in just a couple days,” Sandberg said.
