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Please join William Jimeno an immigrant, an American, a survivor and an author in The Locher Room for an author's afternoon. Joining William will be his co-author and illustrator Charles Ricciardi.

William and Charles are here to discuss the important lessons at the heart of their new, colorfully illustrated, children’s book, Immigrant, American, Survivor - A Little Boy Who Grew up to be All Three. The story documents the experiences of retired Port Authority of New York and New Jersey Police Officer, William Jimeno. As a first responder at the World Trade Center when the Twin Towers fell on 9/11, William was trapped under the rubble for thirteen hours.

Readers of Immigrant, American, Survivor follow a young Jimeno, who immigrates with his family to America and his New Jersey home, not far from the alluring New York City skyline. “My mother was always telling me,” shares Jimeno, “take pride in your Colombian roots, follow your dreams, and never, ever give up. I kept that with me my whole life.” The illustrated book guides readers through some of Jimeno’s relatable ups and downs, from his childhood days, to his journey to becoming a police officer, to his recovery and his reflection upon his own experiences on September 11, 2001.

As the twentieth anniversary of 9/11 draws closer, Immigrant, American, Survivor pays important tribute to the many heroes on that day for a new audience of young readers who may not be familiar with the story. The book addresses 9/11 in a tasteful and gentle manner, highlighting the importance of honoring those we lost.

About the authors:

William Jimeno has co-authored another book due for release August of 2021 titled, Sunrise Through the Darkness. In this book, written for adults, Will shares the challenges he experienced as a first responder dealing with PTSD, and learning how to live again.

Charles Ricciardi has written and illustrated two other children’s books, The Night The Bullies Were Bullied! and I’ll Do My Homework…But First!, exploring the topics of bullying and procrastination. He has also written a novel about a dramatic footrace along the entire Appalachian Trail, The Great Appalachian Trail Race. All are available on Amazon and at Barnes & Noble. Charles has also created five independent feature films, including the award-winning documentary, Drew: The Man Behind The Poster, a film about artist Drew Struzan, creator of the Back to the Future, Indiana Jones and Star Wars movie posters. (www.charlesricciardi.com)

Original Airdate: 7/7/2021