BROWNSVILLE, TN (NOVEMBER 20, 2018) – When Pete, the pie-rat’s pies go missing, he sets sail on a global search to find them in the pages of T. Alan Stanley’s, Pete The Irate Pie-Rat. Stanley both authored and illustrated the story of Pete and will visit the Delta Heritage Center in Brownsville Saturday, December 8, for a book sale and signing. The event begins at 1 p.m. and includes a special guest appearance by Santa.

“The book gives a great message about diversity and friendship,’ says Stanley, “and finding the things in life that really matter.”

Stanley, known as Travis to friends and family, is a native of Brownsville who now resides in Clarksville, Tenn. He is a graduate of Haywood High School, Austin Peay State University and Savannah College of Art and Design. He has been an art educator for the last decade and spends his free time drawing, writing and making the occasional portrait commission.

He is the son of Larry and Sheila Stanley and has been married to his wife, Heather, for 19 years. Their daughter, Lena, is a high school freshman. Pete The Irate Pie-Rat is his first book.

Stanley will read from his book and talk about Pete’s adventures beginning at 1 p.m. As a special treat for the children, Santa will also make a guest appearance. Attendees will enjoy samples of blueberry, apple and pecan pie cookies served with juice, milk and hot chocolate.

“We want folks to come out, show your support for Travis and purchase books,” says Sonia Outlaw-Clark, Delta Heritage Center director, “but we also want to give the children a fun holiday experience for their first introduction to Pete, the pie-rat.”

The event is presented by the Delta Heritage Center and Brownsville Arts Council. There is no admission charge and books will sell for $15. For more information, please contact the Center at 731-779-9000.

About the Center: The West Tennessee Delta Heritage Center, in Brownsville, offers a refreshing Southern experience showcasing the history and culture of rural West Tennessee. Inside visitors can learn about the history of cotton, explore the scenic and “wild” Hatchie River and get to know the legendary musicians who call West Tennessee home. Also located on the grounds is the Tina Turner Museum at Flagg Grove School, the childhood school of Tina Turner, and the last home of Blues pioneer Sleepy John Estes. The Delta Heritage Center is also a featured stop along the Americana Music Triangle connecting Nashville, Memphis and New Orleans. To learn more about the Center, visit www.westtnheritage.com or call 731-779-9000.