From Mirror staff reports

Clearfield County author Jake Lockett will be a featured author at the Pennsylvania School Librarians Association convention on April 16 at the Blair County Convention Center.

“My Life As An Asthmanaut” follows a young boy named Jacob who feels like an astronaut floating in space with an empty air tank during an asthma attack. Using tools to manage his asthma, he comes back to earth and helps those in need find solid ground, too.

“It (asthma) is one of the most common illnesses in the world,” Lockett said. “I want kids to feel understood and brave in their everyday challenges.”

Illustrated by Adriana Predoi, the book’s release date is set for April 14, one of four stories included in Free Spirit Publishing’s Disability Books for Kids series.

Lockett’s book already received acclaim from notable figures such as Chris Nee, creator of Disney’s “Doc McStuffins” and “Vampirina.”

“I wish this book existed when my son was young and struggling to manage his asthma,” Nee said, “It would have made him feel less alone.”

If you go

What: Pennsylvania School Librarians Association Convention

When: April 16

Where: Blair County

Convention Center

Tickets: Members pay $135; non-members pay $225; retired members and students pay $105.