Lots of hands went up as students imagine adventures for No-Count Dog.

(Cuba KY - January 31, 2014) - Mrs. Nikki Simpkin's first grade hosted Ms. Bazzel''s kindergarten students on a misty Friday afternoon to share a special guest. Author Mary Potter came to Cuba Elementary to read her book "No-Count Dog."

The reading was a lively one! The students dog paddled, shook the water out of their coats and barked and barked and barked just like No-Count Dog.

Friday was a special day all around. The children enjoyed surprise free afternoon snacks to celebrate completing 100 days of school. An assembly complete with costumed teachers and staff followed the book event.

No-Count Dog is the story of a dog who becomes a hero by doing what he always does when he doesn't know what to do. Telling the story is a way to foster common core concepts in a fun way. The author discussed with the children the difference between a real (nonfiction) story and an imagined (fiction) story.

Children were encouraged to remember elements of the story that could happen. They were also encouraged to go beyond the story line and use their imaginations. Lots of hands went up when the author asked the children to predict No-County Dog's next adventure. Their ideas included new friends and trips to exotic locations. Students wanted to see him visit a volcano and the jungle.

The author explained the roles of the author and the illustrator.She told the the children that working together with her illustrator made the book better.

"No-Count Dog" is the first collaboration between writer Potter and Jennifer Nuckolls, who drew the colorful illustrations. Copies of the book can be purchased by contacting Mary Potter at editor@westkyjournal.com or through Amazon.com