Pickup Truck's Big Dreams Come to Vroman's Storytime

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A children's book about a rusted pickup truck named Willy who refuses to accept his fate in a junkyard will be featured at Vroman's Bookstore's Local Author Day - Young Readers Edition in Pasadena. Author Mary J.E. Nitti will present 'Willy and Hector: Beyond the Junkyard,' which was inspired by a scene she witnessed at Chicago's O'Hare Airport.

Why it matters

The event highlights Vroman's Bookstore's commitment to supporting local authors and connecting them with young readers. The story of Willy the pickup truck also touches on themes of perseverance and not accepting limitations, which can resonate with children.

The details

The picture book, illustrated by Joe Bauman, follows Willy, a rusted pickup truck stuck in a junkyard, and his friend Hector, a tired old minivan. While Hector would rather nap, Willy has big dreams of a life beyond the scrap heap. The book was praised by the Midwest Book Review as 'an adventure in living.' Author Mary J.E. Nitti, who has a background in technical theater and community theater productions, has published three children's books under her ZooeyBookz imprint.

• The event takes place on Sunday, February 22, 2026 at 11 a.m.
• Vroman's Bookstore has hosted its Local Author Day - Young Readers Edition series for many years.

What’s next

The event at Vroman's Bookstore on February 22, 2026 will be an opportunity for children and families to meet author Mary J.E. Nitti and learn more about the story of Willy the pickup truck.