Peggy Revell
Released just two weeks ago, the memoirs of retired English teacher Frank Maraj, entitled “Snapshots,” has proven to be a hot commodity in the area, with all 250 copies already sold out.
But for those itching to still get their hands on a copy, more are on the way.
“I am overwhelmed and touched,” Maraj said in response to the support and enthusiasm the public has shown to his book that’s filled with tales of his youth growing up in Trinidad.
He especially extended his gratitude to Fort High teacher Scott Doherty for taking the lead at the original launch held at the high school, and who also was first in line to purchase a copy.
“It was a really big honour,” Doherty said about being first in line to buy the book.
“Because we’ve been encouraging Frank to write these stories down, because we’ve been listening to them over and over for years and years, and we thought it was important that he actually put them in a form that generations in the future can enjoy.
“To actually see it happen was amazing, and then with the tremendous amount of public buying this piece? Great stuff,” added Doherty. “Wonderful for everybody who gets to read it.”
Being first in line to purchase a copy, Doherty also was expected to be the first to finish reading it.
He did not, though, noted Maraj. Doherty was edged by fellow teacher Tammy McLean, a former student of Maraj’s.
But both these teachers may have been eclipsed by a “young and energetic” 92-year-old, Sybil Johnson, who read the book in less than 24 hours, added Maraj.
He also noted he may not have actually said he is writing a sequel, but he’s “certainly under pressure to do so since there is a growing demand to comply.”
The public launch for his book will take place at Moss Yoga Studio (formerly Premiere Video) this Friday (Feb. 13) from 2-6 p.m. and again Saturday (Feb. 14) from 9:30 a.m.-6 p.m.
Once a new shipment of copies arrive, they also will be available by calling studio owner Jennifer L’Hirondelle at 274-9320, Maraj family friend Diane Maxey at 274-7309, or Maraj’s wife, Diana, at 274-7931.
