Kalispell author releases children’s picture book

A new children’s picture book by Kalispell author Amber Townsley follows a shy, small gorilla who wonders where her place is in the world.  

The book, “Discovering Doris,” is for children age 3 to 10. Its central message is to cultivate self-love and confidence in the body and abilities one has been given.  

Because of her size, Doris feels like she doesn’t fit in with her troop. Spurred on by her self-doubt, Doris leaves her troop and follows other groups of animals in search of a better fit.  
However, mishap after mishap begins to show her that other animal packs, groups, and collectives aren’t her place, either.
As she wonders what to do next, yet another mishap makes Doris reach for a vine to stop herself from falling, and her instincts kick in. Could it be that she is a great gorilla after all? 

“The character of Doris holds a special place in my heart,” Townsley said. “She has so many qualities I admire. She is curious, thoughtful, and undeterred when things go awry. I think we can all learn from Doris to appreciate the special qualities we have.” 

Townsley’s book features hand-drawn illustrations. Townsley is a multi-medium artist with a degree in design/technology and a Master of Business Administration.  
“The tone is that of curiosity, whimsical, and being adventurous,” said Townsley of her first book. “[It’s about] learning to love yourself for who you are and not comparing yourself to what you think you should be or to others — [and not being] bound by preconceived notions of what others think.”
“Discovering Doris” is available for purchase online at Amazon.com and Barnes and Noble.com and at the Neighborhood Market in Kalispell.  

Townsley is holding a book signing at Barnes & Noble in Kalispell on Aug. 10 from 1-3 p.m.