Children’s Book Will Come Alive In Livingston: ‘Adventures Of Little Billy’ Takes The Stage

LIVINGSTON, NJ — “Never give up on a dream that could be, and you will find the magic tree.” This is one of the messages that local inventor and author Barry Farber is hoping to promote when his children’s book – “The Adventures of Little Billy: In Search of the Magic Tree” – takes a big leap into the real world at Livingston High School.

Farber would know about the value of determination, one of the key morals in The Adventures of Little Billy. Before finding a publisher for the book, which has since spawned an animated series and a podcast, he was rejected 37 times – and he kept every single letter.

“That is what tells you that you’re on the right path – if you have value behind something,” he told attendees at a recent Livingston Town Council meeting.

“If you believe in it, you just don’t give up,” he encouraged.

During the meeting, Farber spoke passionately about his special edition hardcover children’s book and the next big step for Little Billy: a live performance at the Livingston High School auditorium on Monday, June 15.

The special event is open to the public with free general admission. It begins at 7 p.m. Learn more or reserve seats online here. Walk-ins are welcome.

According to Farber, the show represents the culmination of a semester-long final project that brings together students from all grade levels and a wide range of abilities. Tasked with adapting the beloved children’s story into a short, touring theatrical production, students have collaborated on every aspect of the show – from storytelling and character development to staging and performance.

More than just a play, Little Billy is designed with a meaningful mission: to inspire young audiences. Following its debut, the production is intended to tour local elementary schools, sharing lessons about “courage, kindness, perseverance and self-discovery.”

After growing up in Maplewood and graduating from Livingston High School in 1977, Farber published 14 books. "Little Billy" was his first for children. His most well-known book, "Diamond in the Rough," was about the traits that make someone successful in business.

He's done everything from sell a flat pen on TV to managing celebrities. But now, his children's programming is his focus, although adults can learn from his series, too.

The author will be on hand to sign copies of the special edition hardcover copy of the book following the performance at Livingston High School. A portion of proceeds from book sales will benefit the Tamerlaine Animal Sanctuary & Preserve.

• Related: Entrepreneur And Children's Author In Livingston Starts Podcast
• Related: Would You Buy A $75,000 Pen From This Livingston Entrepreneur?

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