2 graphic novelists bring a crowd to Medina bookstore

Photos by Tom Rivers

MEDINA – Author’s Note, a bookstore on Main Street in Medina, hosted a book talk from two graphic novel authors and illustrators on Tuesday evening.

Graphic novels are the fastest growing segment in market share and popularity among youth literature, said Julie Berry, owner of the bookstore.

Niki Smith is the creator of the book, “Midsummer Sisters.” She flew in from Munich, Germany to attend the book discussion. Smith also said she was visiting friends in Rochester.

Smith presents a stunning story set during a summer of change. Filled with gorgeous and expressive illustrations, Midsummer Sisters is a celebration of the beauty of wild horses, as powerful as the unbreakable bond between sisters, Berry said.

Smith also is the author and artist of The Deep & Dark Blue and The Golden Hour.

Katie Risor of Syracuse is author and illustrator of “Welcome to the Forest: The Lake Trip.” The book is the sequel to Welcome to the Forest: The Harvest Party.

Risor, a Texas native, said her illustrations are inspired from her growing up years in Texas and also her more recent experiences in Syracuse and Upstate New York, especially the lakes, trees and state parks.

The Welcome to the Forest series includes endearing forest friends. Risor’s stories are a heartfelt invitation to slow down and savor the small wonders of the world.

Julie Berry, owner of Author’s Note, welcomes the two authors and illustrators to the bookstore at 519 Main St. in Medina.