A new children’s book takes young future Bears on a whirlwind tour of Mercer University — from the bookstore in Mercer Village to a football game in Five Star Stadium.
Toby’s Campus Tour, featuring colorful, bold illustrations and a sing-song rhyme, takes readers on a tour of Mercer’s Macon campus, led by none other than the Bears’ mascot, Toby himself.
Francesca Rollins, associate professor of theater, and Tennille Shuster, professor of graphic design, wrote and illustrated the book, which is available now from Mercer University Press.
As a mom, Rollins has bought and received books from places her family has a connection to, such as Goodnight Georgia and What the Sleepy Animals Do at the Audubon Zoo. She wanted Mercer to have its own children’s book as a way for Mercerians to share their connection to the University.
“There are so many ways that people connect with Mercer, whether they’re a student, employee, parent or a fan,” Rollins said. “I think that Mercer can reach anybody, even if they’ve never been here before. This book allows everyone to take a little piece of Mercer with them.”
The public is invited to a book launch party from 5-7 p.m. Nov. 1 in Plunkett Gallery in Hardman Hall. The free event will include a book reading and signing, as well as activities and snacks. Books also will be available for purchase.
Rollins, who wrote the book, pitched the idea to Shuster, who is also a mom.
“Frani had written a really adorable, just the sweetest little rhyme, and I absolutely fell in love with the idea,” Shuster said. “As working moms, I knew it would be a challenge to take on a passion project like this. I wasn’t sure how I was going to squeeze in the time it takes to illustrate a children’s book, but it was just too fun to pass up.”
The book hits all the major spots on the Macon campus, including Greek Village, Hawkins Arena, Tarver Library, Cruz Plaza, Jesse Mercer’s statue and the historic quad. Mercer’s other mascot, Tot, also makes several appearances.
The last page of the book includes a seek-and-find featuring Georgia state symbols, such as the peach, brown thrasher and Cherokee rose, that are scattered throughout the book.
“I personally hope that the book gives readers a sense of pride in Mercer,” Shuster said. “I hope that it’s a celebration of our engaging campus culture, and I also hope that it will help build lifelong connections with the children who read it.”
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