Book Signing and Release Held on Old Dixwell Ave

Millions of people are affected by cancer each year, and according to the American Cancer Society, an estimated 569,000 Americans lost their lives to the disease in 2010. Though the battle is forever ongoing, Hamden resident Morgan Amarone has taken it upon herself to spread awareness about this disease through composition.  

On Wednesday, Amarone held a release for her debut book, "Madison's Journey," at 2821 Old Dixwell Ave. The book, which is published by Bryson Taylor Publishing, details the story of an eleven-year-old girl named Madison, whose friend Sophie is stricken with cancer at a young age. The story follows the friends' experience in coping with the disease together, as Madison discovers ways to aid her ailing friend in such a desperate time of need. 

Illustrated by fellow Hamden resident Paul Ruocco, Jr., "Madison's Journey" provides a clear message about the dangers and realities of cancer and the importance of companionship, all accompanied by wholesome imagery. 

"When I was writing the book, I knew that I wanted it to portray very specific messages ," Amarone said. "I strongly believe in early cancer education and knew that the book would be a light way to talk about cancer."

Amarone began speaking to local youth about cancer awareness after she lost her grandfather to the disease in 2004, which eventually led to her decision to write 'Madison's Journey'. 

"It's a wonderful story, the pictures are wonderful, the message is wonderful and we're really hoping that Morgan can continue to do well in all of her endeavors," said Hamden resident Susan Higgins, who attended the book release.

Amarone also competes in local beauty pageants, and holds previous titles of Miss North Haven and Miss Waterbury. She will be competing for the crown of Miss Connecticut on June 25 in New London. She also at Lois Astorino Ice Arena back in January in support of Jordan's Journey. 

"It doesn't surprise me one bit," said Jordan's father, Paul Jacques, when asked about 'Madison's Journey'. "All of the things that she does, that's what it's all about-paying it forward." 

As for Amarone, she hopes the message within "Madison's Journey" will become more widespread as she continues her own journey in promoting cancer awareness.

"My vision is to implement the book into elementary school health classes across the state," Amarone said. 

"I have read the book at six elementary schools in the past two weeks, and it has been very well received-so I am looking forward to continuing to work with elementary school teachers in the fall."

To reserve a copy of 'Madison's Journey,' or to contact Morgan Amarone, please visit her website at www.morganamarone.com