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NEWS | Feb. 4, 2009

Langley Airman writes, publishes children’s book

By Airman 1st Class Zachary Wolf 1st Fighter Wing Public Affairs

A Langley Airman says he has one less item on his life's "to do" list after writing his first children's book, an accomplishment that also helps him encourage other Airmen to pursue their dreams and take time to explore their talents. 

"I have 100 or more ideas and things I'd like to accomplish in life, so I went through the list and checked this one off," said the book's author and publisher, Airman 1st Class Isaac Cervi, who has sold nearly 200 copies of "Pockets" thus far. 

"'Pockets' is about learning from our mistakes, even as children," said Airman Cervi. "Each day is new and one should learn from his past to make each day better. The purpose of the book isn't necessarily to profit, but to help people realize that every day they are given a fresh start to improve their lives." 

Airman Cervi began writing the book "to bring joy to children" when he was a senior in high school and finished it after joining the Air Force where he now serves as a satellite wideband and telemetry systems journeyman in the 1st Communications Squadron. 

"The idea to write the book just came to mind one night," he said. "God has given me a lot of creativity, and I would say that my mom inspired me to write." He says he kept the book personal by basing the main character, Mark, on one of his friends back home in Illinois and enlisting his cousin's help for the illustrations. 

Since hearing about the book, several co-workers in his squadron have commented on it or shared with Airman Cervi their own ideas for stories and children's books. 

"I'm continually amazed at the talent our Airmen display both on and off duty," said Lt. Col. Jonathan Sutherland, 1st CS commander, who bought a copy to read with his children after talking with Airmen Cervi about the book.

"Our family read the book together over the holidays," said Colonel Sutherland. "It is a cute book with a nice message and is beautifully illustrated. He should be very proud of his book and we're very proud of him chasing his goal and attaining it."

Airman Cervi spent about $1,000 of his own money on the project and employed a publishing company to format his book and set up a website to help him sell it. 

"It was a bit of a challenge learning how to do everything, from writing the book to getting it edited, illustrated and published," he said. "But it was well worth the effort." 

Airman Cervi will be reading his book to children at the base library Feb. 11 at 1100.