Visit Lebanon Valley’s children’s book “The Adventures of Lebanon Lilly,” a story about a Lebanon cow who sees the sights in Lebanon, is expected to be available by early January.
The 24-page picture book will be available for sale at the Visitors Center next to the Farmers Market for a recommended donation of $10. It will also be available at the Palmyra, Annville, Lebanon, Myerstown, Richland, and Fredericksburg Lebanon County Public Libraries. Proceeds will go toward Lebanon County Public Library Systems.
So where did the county’s destination marketing organization get the idea to write a children’s book about a Lebanon cow?
Before the book was in progress, Visit Lebanon Valley president Jennifer Kuzo saw animal statues for sale in a Palmyra front lawn—including a large cow. She purchased the cow and it was soon brought to the Visit Lebanon Valley office.
“We brought her into the office, located at the Farmers Market in downtown Lebanon, and she was an instant hit,” said Kuzo in a press release. “A selfie spot, drawing children in from the market to get their photos taken.”
After that, they held a naming contest for the cow with children at the Farmer’s market and Lilly—also the name of Robert Coleman’s first wife—was selected.
Local artist MJ McFalls was soon brought into the picture, and touched up Lebanon Lilly’s paint and added more details. McFalls would eventually be the illustrator for the Lebanon Lilly book.
Kuzo decided to write the book to highlight Lebanon Valley’s landmarks and culture.
“Sometimes we have to look a little harder to find the beauty in things we see every day,” said Kuzo.
Throughout the story, Lebanon Lilly visits the Lebanon Valley Rail Trails, Cornwall Iron Furnace, Farmers Market, an apple orchard, and more. The book particularly focused on the agricultural industry and its importance in Lebanon.
“We are proud of our agricultural roots; it defines our landscape, our work ethic, and our culture,” said Kuzo. “This book is our simple way to pass on our values and pride for the Lebanon Valley from one generation to the next.”
Can you identify all the locations below?
Here’s a preview of the many iconic locations Lebanon Lilly visits throughout the book. Can you identify them all? Use the contact form below to send in your answers. Correct responses will be entered to win a copy of the book, courtesy of LebTown. Be sure to include your name and email if you want to be entered!
#1
#2
#3
