Clarkston High School Craft Show, Dec. 7-8, 6093 Flemings Lake Road, hosts Richard and Kathy Verlander, authors of their new book, Rocks Across the Pond.
“It’s a lot of fun, meeting people,” Richard said. “We’re very blessed to be able to share our story.”
The book shares their experiences and lessons learned raising two sons, Justin Verlander, Detroit Tigers? 2011 American League MVP and Cy Young Award winner, and Ben Verlander, who was recently drafted by the Tigers.
“It’s not so much about the Cy Young award and all of that ? at end of the day, we’re regular folks,” Richard said. “It’s more about being good parents of successful kids.We have some perspective now on how to do that. Successful kids grow up to be teachers, carpenters, doctors, there are all sorts of gifts and passions. It’s not about fame and fortune, it’s doing what you love.”
Richard and Kathy have visited about 65 craft shows, small-town book stores, high schools, churches, and community groups over the past year, since the book was published. They celebrate the role of teachers, coaches and other adults in raising confident kids, and share stories of parenthood and life.
“It’s a new chapter in our lives ? we’re both retired,” he said. “If you told us going in we’d be doing this, falling in love with craft shows, I’d say you’d lost your mind. But it’s a lot of fun. It’s not like work at all.”
The title of the book refers to something Richard told Justin when the pitcher was 10 years old. If he practiced hard enough, he would someday be able to throw a rock across the pond ? Justin picked up a rock and hit a tree on the other side.
The event is free and open to the public. The book will be available for purchase for $29.95 plus tax and the Verlanders will sign copies during the event. There is a $5 charge for books already purchased. They’ll also have a table of baseball memorbilia for people to see.
“Kids love to come by and get their pictures taken with the All Star ring,” Richard said.
For more information, contact Renee Bolster at 734-735-0815, or visit www.verlanderbook.com.