A story with a mission: Sharon Richmond releases book to guide kids and give back
Finding Your North Star by Sharon Richmond (available for purchase at Northport Books) is inspired by the author’s late son Vincent and reimagines his journey with a hopeful, healing perspective.
A new children’s book by local advocate and educator Sharon Richmond is bringing a message of hope, resilience and self-discovery to young readers, while also giving back to the community.
Richmond, who serves on the Town of Huntington Opioid and Addiction Task Force, released her debut picture book Finding Your North Star in late March. Inspired by her late son Vincent, the story reimagines his journey with a hopeful, healing perspective – one in which he reconnects with himself and follows his inner compass back to what he loves most.
At its heart, the book follows a young boy who feels lost and unsure of where he belongs. Guided by his loyal dog named Compass, a watchful cat named Radar and a circle of supportive neighborhood animals, he learns to rediscover his sense of purpose and self-worth. For Vincent, it was his passion for the environment and helping others that gave him hope for the future, Richmond said.
The story encourages children to embrace what makes them unique, recognize their worth and remember that their “true north” is never out of reach.
Richmond, who founded the True North Foundation in her son’s memory, wrote the book with a deeper purpose in mind. All proceeds from Finding Your North Star will go directly toward the Vincent D’Antoni-Richmond Memorial Scholarship, which supports local high school seniors. This year, five $1,000 scholarships are being awarded to students in surrounding school districts.
The book also carries a meaningful local connection. Young readers may recognize familiar landmarks like the Huntington Lighthouse and Crab Meadow Beach tree, along with wildlife inspired by the Crab Meadow area.
Finding Your North Star is currently available at The Book Whisperer, located within Nest on Main in Northport Village, and can also be purchased on Amazon.
Richmond will be sharing her book with the community at upcoming events, including Earth Day celebrations at Seatuck Environmental Association on April 19 and at Elwood Park on April 25.
More than just a children’s story, Finding Your North Star is a reflection of Richmond’s ongoing advocacy work, helping families to start conversations about self-esteem, belonging and making positive choices, while helping ensure that Vincent’s legacy continues to guide and support others.
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