Local author Maria Balestri will present her children’s book “Two Small Suitcases” on Saturday, September 12th at 11:00 AM.  Children and adults alike are invited to attend her presentation, which will be followed by a Q&A session. Set against the backdrop of the Cold War, the Cuban Missile Crisis, and Fidel Castro’s Communist regime, the presentation shares the journey of Maria and her family from Cuba to America.  Maria’s children’s book is currently available at the Ladd Public Library. It follows the true story of two sisters departing Communist Cuba as part of Operation Peter Pan. The book will be available for purchase and signing at the event, and is also available on Amazon.com. There is no charge for this program. Walk-ins are welcome, but you can reserve your seat by visiting or calling the Ladd Public Library at (815) 894-3254.