Morris the Horse has been a beloved symbol for Tryon for generations. To commemorate that special character, local author Robin Edgar and local artist Ronnie Mosseller created a children’s storybook called “The Day Morris Quit.” 

Just in time for local holiday shopping, Edgar will be signing first edition copies of the book on Saturday, Dec. 10 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at The Book Shelf at 94 N. Trade St, Tryon. A truly community-based endeavor, Edgar will donate her book royalties received from local publisher, Tryon Publishing Company, to support the new Tryon Historical Museum on 26 Maple Street.

“The Day Morris Quit” made its debut in conjunction with the Toy Story Weekend celebration of September 2015. The story tells of Morris who, having faithfully pulled his cart around the town of Tryon for years, thinks no one cares about him anymore, now that cars and trucks are around. Morris’ outlook on life changes when he meets a skinny little boy who becomes his friend as well as the town hero. Although it is published as a children’s storybook, the message is for all ages.

A lifestyle journalist for over 35 years, Edgar has also worked with children as a professional actress, mime, and storyteller. The local author’s other books include, “In My Mother’s Kitchen,” “Personal Legacies: Surviving the Great Depression,” and “Fantastic Recycled Plastic.”

Mosseller, the owner of the Mills Mosseller Studio in Tyron and maker of fine rugs and tapestries, has worked as an artist and illustrator for almost 70 years.

Penny Padgett, owner of The Book Shelf says, “Morris is such a popular icon in our town and I have received so many requests for ‘The Day Morris Quit’ that I thought it was a great time of year for Robin to do a book signing for the holidays.”

In addition to being on hand to personalize your purchase of “The Day Morris Quit,” Edgar will provide fun activities for children such as reading the story and coloring pages from the book.

The Book Shelf will also feature books by other local authors, such as Susan McNabb, Gaden Corpening, Mike McCue, Jim Jackson, Mary Ann Claud, Kirk Gollwitzer, Anna Connor, and Alex Cord, to make this a super-charged event that supports local artists, businesses, and nonprofits.

For more information contact The Book Shelf at 828-859-9304.

– article submitted by Penny Padgett