Local school teacher Tony Pitré has turned a cherished childhood drawing by his grandson, Odin, into a published children’s book, "Frankie’s First Halloween," released by The Press at Cal Poly Humboldt. 

The book, which follows the adventures of an amiable ghost named Frankie, reflects Pitré's passion for storytelling and his dedication to fostering a love of reading in young children. "I have been writing for decades and this is my first published story. I’ve saved that drawing all these years thinking it might make a good story," Pitré remarked in a recent interview with the Times Standard, highlighting the personal significance behind his work.

"Frankie’s First Halloween" takes readers on a whimsical journey where Frankie, eager to experience Halloween, seeks the help of Evilena the Witch to become a real boy. Accompanied by his friend Mona the Mummy, Frankie embarks on a quest for the legendary Enchanted Pumpkin. The enchanting narrative, paired with illustrations by recent Cal Poly Humboldt graduate Cello Wicklin, brings Pitré’s vision to life and captures the spirit of the Halloween season.

Pitré, who has taught at Alice Birney Elementary School in Eureka since 1975, is deeply invested in the joys of Halloween, a holiday he has celebrated with his own children and students. "I love to watch children’s excitement and wonder at the day designed for their enjoyment," he said. This personal connection to the holiday infuses his story with warmth and excitement, aiming to inspire children to embrace the joy of reading and storytelling.

"Frankie’s First Halloween" is available for purchase at local bookstores such as The Booklegger in Eureka and Northtown Books in Arcata, as well as online. It can also be downloaded for free from The Press’s website, and Cal Poly Humboldt's digital repository, Digital Commons, enhancing accessibility for young readers.