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Patricia L. Woodard's Children's Book “Ava and Salom�: Welcome to Cali!” Was Displayed at a Book Festival at Printers Row, Chicago

As the clouds parted, Ava pressed her face to the airplane window, spotting a city shimmering with secrets � and sensing that adventure and a new friend awaited her below.

San Diego, CA, USA – Thursday, October 15, 2026

Between the colors of Cali and the laughter of two new friends, �Ava and Salom�: Welcome to Cali!� reminds us that the bravest journeys begin with a single, curious hello.

The book marketing and self-publishing company ReadersMagnet exhibited �Ava and Salom�: Welcome to Cali!� by Patricia L. Woodard at a well-known outdoor book festival at Printers Row in Chicago. This event took place along South Dearborn Street, from Ida B. Wells Drive to Polk Street, on September 12-13, 2026.

�Ava and Salom�: Welcome to Cali!� is a delightful children�s story that celebrates curiosity, friendship, and the wonders of experiencing a new culture. The adventure begins when seven-year-old Ava receives a special birthday gift: a trip from her hometown in North Carolina to Cali, Colombia. Nervous about her limited Spanish and unsure of how she�ll fit in, Ava�s worries are eased by her grandmother, who assures her that kindness and curiosity are the best ways to connect with new people. Upon arrival, Ava meets Salom�, a girl her age, and together they embark on unforgettable adventures throughout the vibrant city.

As they explore Cali, Ava learns the word �aguacate� from a lively street vendor, tries new foods at family meals, and finds joy in playing with Salom�s puppy, Jacinto. She soon discovers that laughter and friendship can cross any language barrier. From visiting the city�s famous Cat Park to dancing to Colombian music and sharing family traditions, Ava�s journey is filled with excitement and discovery.

This heartwarming story is a joyful, culturally rich book that encourages young readers to embrace new experiences, learn from others, and welcome the world with an open heart.

Patricia L. Woodard is a storyteller, teacher, and adventurer at heart, with roots planted firmly in North Carolina and branches stretching all the way to Colombia. A retired math and Spanish teacher, Patricia�s journeys began in the 1970s when she fell in love with Colombia�s culture and spirit, inspiring memoirs and children�s books that bridge worlds and generations. Through her writing, she invites readers to explore new places, embrace curiosity, and celebrate the connections that unite us all.

Grab a copy of �Ava and Salom�: Welcome to Cali!� by Patricia L. Woodard, available now on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Learn more about the author by following her on Facebook.

Author�s Biography
Patricia L. Woodard is an author and retired educator from North Carolina with a lifelong passion for Colombia. Since her first visit in the 1970s, she has written two memoirs and one children�s book, inspired by Colombia�s vibrant culture and enduring friendships.

Drawing on her experience teaching math and Spanish, Patricia�s storytelling bridges cultures and generations. Her latest book, �Ava and Salom�: Welcome to Cali!,� invites readers to discover Colombia�s beauty through a child�s eyes. In retirement, she continues to write, restore historic homes, teach yoga, and enjoy time with loved ones.

Book Details

  • Book Title: �Ava and Salom�: Welcome to Cali!�
  • Author: Patricia L. Woodard
  • Genre: Children�s Book
  • Publisher: Archway Publishing
  • Published Date: December 19, 2016

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