Cierra Linka, a Roan Scholar at East Tennessee State University, has written a children’s book inspired by her interactions with “Peppy: The Easy-Going Racehorse.” Families and children are invited to a free community celebration for the new book on Thursday, May 16.

“It’s a Peppy Party!” will begin at 5:30 p.m. at the Bonnie Kate Theater, 115 S. Sycamore Street in Elizabethton. The first 100 families at the event will receive a free copy of “Peppy: The Easy-Going Racehorse.” In addition to activities and free snacks for children, party goers will have a chance to meet the author, the illustrator and Peppy the horse.

The book’s main character, Peppy, is based on a horse Linka met while completing an internship at United Holston Home for Children. As part of the Roan Summer of Service, she worked with youth and staff in the equine therapy program and wrote the book to celebrate children’s differences and to share the importance of always believing in yourself. These inspiring words were brought to life through the illustrations of fellow Roan Scholar, Clara Reynolds. Linka and Reynolds are members of the Roan Class of 2021 and 2022, respectively.

“Peppy is a special horse who taught me a lot,” Linka said. “I hope kids and adults will read this and be inspired to try hard and be themselves.”

Linka, who is majoring in social work, became interested in early childhood literacy as a result of the Roan Scholars Leadership Program’s focus on the topic during the 2018-19 academic year. She and other Roan Scholars were challenged to find ways to make a positive impact locally. Drawing upon her experience with Peppy and the children at Holston Home, Linka began writing last fall. Individuals and businesses in the community generously donated more than $2,500 to print the book and distribute to children throughout the region for free.

Tickets to this community event and book release party are free but limited and must be reserved in advance. To reserve tickets, visit www.peppyparty.eventbrite.com. For more information, contact The Roan Scholars Leadership Program at 423-439-7677.