We introduced Grace readers to "Penelope's Cruise" author Dodie Milardo of Westbrook in this story from April, 2011. Milardo had come up with a novel idea for marketing her first, well, novel. Her plan was to donate 90 percent of the net profits from her book sales to charitable organizations, including the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation; Children's Community Programs of CT; Autism Speaks; Bethsaida Community, Inc.; Connecticut Food Bank; CT Chapter of the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition; National Coalition for the Homeless; Feeding America; Feeding America's Hungry Children; Safe Futures; and the Connecticut Coalition against Domestic Violence, among others. At that time she had raised more than $1,500. She has since raised more than $60,000, according to the publishers of "Chicken Soup for the Soul: Inspiration for Writers" which includes an essay by Milardo on the beginnings of her project. Milardo also now hosts a radio show called "Dodie's Talk" which focuses on healthy relationships in life, love and work, Thursdays at 7:30 on Little Buddy Radio.

Milardo will speak at the Monte Cristo Bookshop, 13 Washington St., New London, on Saturday (May 25) at 3 p.m. For more information, visit www.penelopescruise.com.