Caversham for Kids! Howie Shia and friends with a story about bravery, music, and making some noise!
Author and illustrator Howie Shia will be joined by musicians Tim Shia and Neil Hendry for a morning of storytelling and tunes, celebrating the release of the audiobook of Ra! Ta! Ma! Cue!
A family-friendly event! Children of all ages are welcome.
This event is free to attend, but please RSVP so we know how many people to expect!
About the Book
A unique picture book adventure for music lovers of all ages about how to never be quiet, never give up, and never underestimate the power of percussion.
Months have passed since the Grown-Ups were taken captive, forced to brush the teeth and scratch the backs of the Growlies. One day the children make a decision: Ratamacue! It means “no more waiting.” It means it’s time for a rescue mission! They set off on a wild and uncertain journey, forming a drumline to overcome the many obstacles in their way. In the end, the Growlies’ meanness is no match for the children’s magic: their collective music.
Ra! Ta! Ma! Cue! celebrates the power of kids accomplishing remarkable feats, even when up against seemingly undefeatable odds—especially when they are underestimated. With stunning illustrations and a distinctive blend of picture book and graphic musical score reminiscent of John Cage, this exciting book will inspire kids and adults alike.
About Howie
Howie Shia is an award-winning illustrator, writer and animation director. He works both as an independent short filmmaker and with major studios like Disney and Netflix. His publishing debut, Ra! Ta! Ma! Cue!, was one of the Globe & Mail’s best children’s books of 2025 and winner of the Elizabeth Mrazik-Cleaver Picture Book Award and Pubwest Book Design Award.