The Monte Cristo Bookshop will hold the first in a series of sessions for children with local authors starting at 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 2. Anna Westbrook of New London will read her book "You Can't Read This Book."

"You Can't Read This Book" began in 2010 as a way to motivate a student in the Boys and Girls Club at Claude Chester Elementary School in Groton when Westbrook was serving as the site director. A first-grader refused to participate in his required reading because he said he could not read any of the books. Westbrook decided to write him a book in hopes of changing his mindset.

This free event is targeted for those up to age 6, but children of all ages are welcome. Monte Cristo Bookshop is at 13 Washington St.; (860) 574-9056.