Adventure is waiting…
will you follow?
Finn's Adventures was created to spark imagination, joy, and emotional connection through storytelling that inspires courage, curiosity, and kindness.
With heartfelt books and vibrant illustrations, we remind every child that their story matters. Through partnerships with libraries and community groups, we bring stories to life with inclusive, engaging events full of wonder, creativity, and connection.
Featured Book
Finn’s Adventures: The Secret of the Skipping Stones
Guided by his faithful compass, Finn journeys to a mysterious lake where legends whisper of magic hidden beneath the ripples.
The stones scattered along its shore seem ordinary-until one reveals a power that changes everything. What begins as a simple search becomes a daring quest, pushing Finn to uncover truths about courage, beauty, and the hidden strength within what seems most plain.
The Secret of The Skipping Stones is a magical adventure brimming with mystery, discovery, and the spark of wonder that lies just beyond the surface.
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Bring Finn to You
Storytime with Finn is more than just reading—it’s an experience. We partner with libraries, community groups, and bookstores to create interactive events where children become part of the adventure. Through storytelling, art, and conversation, we spark imagination and remind every child that their story matters.
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Live storytelling with the author or illustrator
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Creative art activities inspired by the book
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Interactive Q&A to spark curiosity
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Take-home printables like coloring pages and journaling prompts
Desoto County Agri Center
1170 Star Landing Rd, Nesbit, MS 38651, USA
03/28/2026 Time 1 pm - 5 pm
Join Us at the Literary All-Star Expo!
We’re excited to share that Finn’s Adventures will be at the DeSoto County Agri-Center for the Literary All-Star Expo! Swing by our booth to pick up your favorite books, grab raffle tickets for a chance to win one of three unique quilts, and enjoy plenty of signing opportunities. We’ll also have fun activities for kids of all ages, so bring the whole family and join the adventure!
M R Dye Public Library
2885 Goodman Rd W, Horn Lake, MS 38637, USA
02/07/2026 11 am - 1 pm
Join us for another enchanting chapter of 'Finn's Adventures' as the library welcomes us back for more adventure. Come and celebrate with us as we dive into Finn's magical world once more, featuring Valentine card-making activities, new surprises, and a chance to meet me again, the author. Experience the wonder of storytelling, the joy of crafts, and adventure with us!
M R Dye Public Library
2885 Goodman Rd W, Horn Lake, MS 38637, USA
02/21/2026 1 pm - 3 pm
PART 1: Join us at the M.R. Dye Public Library for a delightful two-part sewing event inspired by Finn’s Adventures! In the first session, you’ll get hands-on experience learning the basics of sewing and how to use a sewing machine. Then, in the follow-up class, we’ll create a charming small pillow together that introduces you to the fundamentals of quilting. It’s a fantastic way to pick up a new skill and enjoy a bit of creative fun!
M R Dye Public Library
2885 Goodman Rd W, Horn Lake, MS 38637, USA
03/07/2026 1 pm - 3 pm
PART 2: In our second session, we’ll build on the skills from the first class and dive into the basics of quilting. You’ll learn techniques like nesting seams and sewing a perfect quarter-inch seam allowance. By the end of the class, everyone will have the chance to create a lovely small pillow to take home. It's a wonderful way to expand your sewing skills and leave with a handmade keepsake!
M R Dye Public Library
2885 Goodman Rd W, Horn Lake, MS 38637, USA
03/14/2026 1 pm - 3 pm
FINAL TOUCHES: If you need a little extra time to finish up your project from Part 2 of our sewing class, we've got you covered! This follow-up event is all about making sure everyone can complete their small pillow and learn those final quilting touches. We'll be there to help you nest seams, finish your quarter-inch allowances, and ensure you leave with a completed keepsake to take home. We can't wait to see your finished creations!
Upcoming Events
The Collection
Meet the Creators
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Debra Sawdy
AUTHOR
A storyteller, dreamer, and adventurer at heart, Debra crafts tales that open doors to wonder, imagination, and emotional connection. Her debut series, Finn’s Adventures, was born from friendship and fueled by a deep love of nature, creativity, and shared discovery.
Whether exploring hidden worlds or encouraging quiet bravery, Debra’s stories celebrate the magic in every child’s perspective. She lives in Mississippi, where she brings big dreams to life one page at a time.
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Lily Ortiz
ILLUSTRATOR
Lily Ortiz is an illustrator with a wild imagination and a collection of sketchbooks that mysteriously end up in the most curious places. She loves to make stories pop with color, creativity, and just the right amount of glitter (metaphorically… unless you catch her on a particularly sparkly day). When she's not drawing, she's probably tucked away in a library, a paintbrush stuck in her hair, her cats around to "supervise" her work… or occasionally take a bite out of it for quality control.
Books & Quilts
Inspiring Literacy & Creativity
This Month's Featured Quilter
I first learned to sew at the age of six on my mom’s old Singer, and that spark ignited a lifelong love of fiber arts. Over the years, I've explored many forms of textile expression, and today I sew on both a Bernina 930 and a Janome Memory Craft 9900. My favorite quilts are the ones that tell a story, made with purpose, heart, and always with the recipient in mind. I’ve been known to learn entirely new techniques just to bring someone’s dream quilt to life.
In 2014, I began long arming and continue to use my Innova 26” machine today. Whether working on a client’s quilt or one of my own, I approach each piece with deep respect and care, striving to honor the creator’s vision while ensuring beautiful, lasting results.
I was drawn to this collaboration project because I saw so much of my recent journey reflected in Flinn’s Climb to the Sky. I began rope climbing in 2022, an adventure that grew my courage, strength, and bravery in ways that I never imagined would motivate me in my sixties. Quilting, teaching, and climbing fill my days with incredible adventures, just like Finn’s!
Breathe in gratitude & breathe out blessings,
Melissa Hildebrandt
All for One Quilting Studio
Longarm Custom Quilting and Learning Studio
“But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in Him.” Jeremiah 17:7
- Melissa Hildebrant, November & December Event Quilt Giveaway
Let’s create something magical together!
Have a question or want to schedule a live reading? Fill out the form and we’ll be in touch soon.
